dating

Whether you're serious about meeting someone special or you're looking for a few dates to fill your free time, there's no more effective method of meeting people than registering with online dating sites.

Internet dating services have long since lost their stigma. Millions of people worldwide have signed up in the hopes of finding a mate, and resultant tales of romance are widespread. But how do you know if internet dating is for you?

Internet Dating is for Everyone

Whoever you are and whatever you're looking for, there is an online agency which caters for you. From multinational, household name agencies to smaller, specialist sites, the choice is enormous – so which service is right for you?

If your priority is maximizing your chances of meeting someone, the larger, better known dating sites may be your best bet. With millions of members logging in regularly, these sites can put you in contact with more potential dates than you could ever hope to meet in day to day life.

For a more intimate atmosphere, some of the smaller or newer sites are ideal. There may be less members on them, but to an online dating newbie, this can make them less overwhelming.

Alternatively, if it is important to you to meet somebody of a specific age, religion or social group, specialist dating services cater for almost every variable and can save you from having to sift through lots of unsuitable responses.

If money is an issue, don't worry. Although a lot of sites do charge for membership, increasing numbers cost nothing or offer a free membership option which features certain restrictions.

For an overview of some of the better sites, try searching for "best dating sites" or "online dating reviews".

Why Bother?

If you're a romantic at heart, internet dating may sound sterile or impersonal – but don't dismiss it yet.

If you really want to meet somebody, why limit yourself to the handful of people you meet at work or in nightclubs? Signing up to a dating service is a much more proactive approach to finding love than waiting for it to simply stumble into your life.

Online dating can be a remarkably stress free experience. Chatting via the internet takes the emphasis off your appearance, and emailing allows a potential couple to get to know one another gradually, with none of the traditional pressure to make entertaining conversation or fill those uncomfortable silences.

Many people also find that online dating gives them the freedom to be themselves. By increasing the number of people you could potentially contact, you also increase your chances of finding someone who shares your more unusual hobbies and interests.

Get Connected

As with any method of meeting new people, internet dating requires a certain amount of common sense. Don't give out personal details like your surname, address or place of employment until you are absolutely certain you can trust somebody, and always make sure that a friend knows where you're going and when you'll be home when you go on your first few dates.

However, approached sensibly, internet dating is a fast, efficient and low stress way of contacting potential new partners. If you're really serious about meeting somebody new – or even if you're just curious to see who's out there – grab every chance available to you. Go to parties, join clubs, do some evening classes, but don't rule out the possibility that Mr or Mrs Right is just a few clicks away.