Getting Started (And Being Safe) With Online Dating

These days, almost everyone has a personal web page, online dating profile or chat handle. It's no surprise then that millions of people are taking to the net to find love. The question is though, is online dating safe? The answer, of course, is both yes and no. Every dating site is different, but they're all similar in that the easiest way to ensure your safety is to protect yourself.

Here then are some tips for getting started (and being safe) with online dating.

Post a good photo You are statistically more likely to find your perfect match if your profile has a clear picture. In fact, the more photographs you use, the more your chances of meeting interesting singles increases. Posting a fake photograph should be avoided, as it will only lead to trouble.

Play the field Contact as many people as possible. You may be shy at first, but the only way to find someone is to get out there and chat with anyone you find intriguing or attractive. Don't be afraid. You'll find that, unlike meeting people in person, it's much easier to approach people online.

Be outgoing but careful No matter how wonderful a person may seem at first, restrict initial contact to the chat room or inbox. Coming on too strong may often be a sign of trouble. Use your spidey-sense; if something bothers you, let it be known. Safety is your first priority when dealing with strangers.

Ask Questions Getting to know a potential love match revolves around your ability to ask questions. The less you ask, the less you're likely to find out. Obviously, it's best to tread lightly on personal matters at first, but remember, if you don't ask, you're bound to be surprised later on.

Be honest and friendly There is absolutely nothing to gain by being dishonest. It might be tempting to exaggerate qualities or achievements, especially when you're meeting new singles, but resist the urge. Lies are almost always revealed with time. Be honest, outgoing and courteous, and odds are good you will receive the same sort of treatment from your fellow online daters.

Avoid sex talk and vulgarity Part of the appeal of online dating is the removal of inhibitions and shyness. Because of this, people often say things they would never mention in person. Using a suggestive nickname, vulgar language and overtly sexual subject matter may attract attention initially, but it may also create a certain expectation, which can cause problems later on.

Meeting for the first time Should you decide to take the next step, it's best to choose a place you are comfortable in, or at least a commonly known and agreed upon meeting point. It's also a good idea to limit first dates to daytime activities, like going to a café or bookstore. Meeting in a public place is another great way to ensure your safety.

Stick to what makes you confident and comfortable Once you start dating, stick to activities and conversations you're comfortable with. "Clicking" and pleasing someone else is important, but not if it comes under pressure.

Mitch Conway is the author of The Go-Getter's Guide To Finding Your Soulmate, the first dating guide designed to help singles save time and become more proactive at meeting people. Mr. Conway describes himself as having been an "average single guy" who decided to take a pragmatic and structured approach to finding his soulmate. His techniques and advice were put together over a period of three years into what is now The Go-Getter's Guide to Finding Your Soulmate.

To find out more, visit http://www.gogettersguides.com/