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10 Rules for Successful Online Dating
by: Confident Mama
Every day thousands of people log on to online dating sites looking for romance or long-term commitment and love. In fact, online dating is becoming more popular as increasing numbers of men and women of all age groups seek an online connection. Use the f

1. BE HONEST When placing an ad or replying to an ad make sure you tell the truth about yourself. 2. MAKE YOUR AD STAND OUT Write an eye-catching headline. And add some humour if you can. (Beware: Don't be smutty as this will turn people off.) Check out the competition. See what attracts you to other ads then use a similar style with your own. Be original Even if you like moonlit walks along the beach and candlelit dinners, restrain yourself from writing about it because you will sound just like everybody else. 3. USE A PICTURE It's true that pictures are worth a thousand words. If you are placing an online dating ad, make sure you include a good quality photo. Also, make sure the photo reflects what you really look like otherwise a first meeting could end in disaster. 4. BE SPECIFIC You know your self really well. Make a list of your positive points and your interests then tell them about it in your online dating ad. Be realistic! 5. CONSIDER WHAT YOU WANT Find out about your target market - what they like and don't like to read in ads then write yours accordingly. For example: If you are a man who wants a long-term commitment, don't list the physical assets you want in a woman, as the women who want long-term commitments will not respond to this. If you are a woman who wants a man who loves techno music, don't say you are a Mariah Carey fan. 6. BE POSITIVE Nobody wants a sad sack 7. USE WELL-KNOWN DATING SITES You want to make sure as many people as possible see your online dating ad. Try these popular dating sites: Lavalife Date.com Kiss.com Match.com 8. ANSWER MESSAGES LIKE A CONVERSATION If you are answering a message or sending another online dating ad, make sure you are not too formal. Structure your messages like a conversation. Be positive and friendly and don't say anything that could be misconstrued. 9. REMAIN ANONYMOUS Do not give out your real email address, last name, phone number, address or workplace details. [Also see Empower's free ebook Dating Safety: The Essential Guide below.] 10. CONSIDER SAFETY WHEN MEETING SOMEONE IN PERSON Meet in a public place and bring friends.