Are you an introvert who finds it difficult to go out and approach someone? Or maybe you are a busy person who doesn’t have time to find a suitable partner although you long to have one? No matter your circumstances, online dating could be the solution you’re looking for. If you’re a bit sceptical, you should know that 54 percent of Americans say relationships that began online are just as successful as those that started in person.
But with so many online dating services available nowadays, how do you know which is the right one for you? Gone are the days when there were just eHarmony and OK Cupid. Today the field is overcrowded, and if you’re just starting, you might feel overwhelmed. If this sounds like you, you can start out by considering these four factors:
1. Cost
There are different online dating sites and apps- some are free, and some are paid. Each one works differently. While some people prefer to pay for a single platform with premium-level services and features, some enjoy using multiple free services at once.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what you want to pay. Remember, there is no reason to believe that paid services work better than free services. While many think that the paid platforms attract more serious and genuine users than the free platforms, you never know until you give the platform (and its users) a chance.
2. Regions
It is important to consider where you live before signing up for a dating site. For example, some sites or apps may be more or less popular in your area. So, if you are looking to date someone from your area, then go for the apps that are well-known and popular in your town or city. For example, the 10 best dating sites for Americans might not be that popular with people living in other parts of the world.
Also, consider the environment where you live. Urban environments differ vastly from college towns, so you can expect to see a different online makeup as well. Understanding your preferences and comfort level will help you narrow down your search.
3. Privacy
Remember, the dating site you choose will have access to the data that you use while filling up the online registration form. Some dating sites may ask for detailed information like date of birth, cities you have lived in, gender, marital status, children, pets, etc. These questions can seem a bit invasive, but they also help to find you the perfect match.
So, it is important to check how the site you choose handles its user data. Check if they are deleting your data after you close an account. Some sites retain this data, in case the user wants to return later. Take out time to read the privacy policy of the site and understand who all will have access to your data. Do you have an option to opt-out from sharing personal data with third-parties?
Dating sites will ask you to share your photo. Understand if those photos would be used only for members or if they will be used for advertising too. If yes, check if there is an option to opt-out. Do some background research–was there any history of cyberattacks on the site? Also, understand if the site sets all member profiles public by default or if there is an option to keep them private.
4. Intention
Different people join dating sites for different purposes. While some are serious and looking for a long term commitment, some join these sites just for a casual hook up. Understand your goal and choose a site accordingly.
Most dating sites mention their purpose clearly, making it easy for you to narrow down your hunt. For example, if you don’t have any specific goal, choose any of the popular dating sites like Tinder or OK Cupid. But if you have clear preferences, then there are many niche websites for you to explore. You can pick a niche dating website based on different guiding factors like age, religion, race, sexuality, interests, hobbies, etc. If you are sure what you are looking for, then these niche sites are your best go-to places.
Take the leap and put yourself out there
Online dating sites are great places to find a companion or a partner. While it may look overwhelming as you begin your search, answering the questions above will help you to narrow down your search until you find the perfect platform for you. Once you’re signed up and have a dating profile, you may still feel a bit out of your element. But in time, you’ll grow more comfortable and become an expert at online dating.
