The Internet has meant that online dating has become as commonplace as trying to meet that special someone in a bar or club. Finding dating sites online is easy; finding that perfect match perhaps not quite so easy, and the following tips will help you navigate the sometimes overwhelming world of online dating. Dating sites have become increasingly sophisticated, and the industry has also seen many niches, or specialist dating sites.
Most online dating sites work the same way; you provide as much information about yourself as possible, including your educational background, interests and general outlook on life, and browse the profiles of others who have provided similar information. Be warned – you may have to candidly answer questions about your religious and political beliefs, your income, and whether you have been married before. Needless to say, it pays to be as honest as possible. Of course, you will also need to provide a photograph of yourself, and this should be a recent one, not a picture from 20 years ago.
When it comes to online dating, the more possible matches you have, statistically the higher your chances of meeting someone compatible. For that reason, it may be a better option to go with one of the larger dating sites, with millions of members, although if you just aren’t sure which site is right for you, take some time to look around the site, see how it works and what it costs. Don’t confuse an online dating site with a matchmaking site unless that is specifically what you are looking for; a matchmaking site will match you up with people it feels you would be compatible with, while a dating site, you choose for yourself.
Just about every online dating site offers some sort of free trial period, and this can be useful for deciding if the site will work for you. Always read the small print when you sign up, especially if you are providing your credit card information, and make sure you understand the cancellation policy, the terms of membership and the length of your membership. You may find that you are stuck with a yearly membership, even if you meet someone within a few months of joining. Some sites charge a monthly membership fee, although you save money if you pay for a year or two years up front. It’s really up to you whether you consider it a good deal to pay for the year and save money.
Although the larger and most well-known online dating sites boast millions of members and are quick to point out their success rate, there 
are hundreds of smaller sites. If you are looking to date only obese people, people of a specific race, atheists, pet lovers, or those who live in the country, you can probably find a niche dating site to accommodate you. Of course, the downside is that these sites typically have fewer members, although many people prefer them. You may want to avoid dating sites whose members all seem to be looking for a good time or a casual relationship if your goal is to meet your true soul mate.
Some of the best online dating tips concern safety and common sense. Always be careful what you say to someone you have never met if you are chatting online with them, or exchanging messages or emails. Never give out your home address, bank account or credit card details, or social security number. Your initial meeting with someone you have been matched with should be in a safe and crowded public place, and you should also let a family member or friend know where you will be and your expected time to return. In general, the well known and long established dating sites are reputable, and you should be cautious with a dating site that has few members and little or no feedback posted online.
The tips above can help you to find the right online dating site, and hopefully your life partner. Online dating is more acceptable than ever, and if you have felt it has a stigma attached to it, or it is something to be done as a last resort, you should think again.