Online dating has a stigma to it; it challenges traditional romantic notions on how we should find our soul mate, and is often dismissed as a last resort reserved for the desperate. In a fast paced and time sensitive society, where so many social liaisons take place via instant messenger, SMS and email; should we question why flirting and dating online is deemed such a grand leap of faith?
Is it for you?
Taking the plunge and posting a profile can take nerve. If you are still not convinced, reassure yourself by researching all the pleasures and pitfalls before you start:
Love bytes, the pros and cons
Is online love the same as real-time love?
Could you find your happy ending online?
Is love online a cop-out?
How do you do it?
If you have never done online dating before, it can all seem a bit foreign. Traditional dating rules do still apply, they are just packaged in a slightly different way:
10 ways to succeed with online dating
Single white female - how to write your profile
Fine online, but mis-matched when we met
Is it safe?
As with real-time dating, there are risks. Just as you wouldn't walk down a dark secluded street on your own, a similar approach must be taken when dating on-line. Protect yourself with knowledge and awareness:
Safety tips for online daters
Protect yourself from cyber stalkers
Further resources
Convinced? Start online dating today!
Still not sure? Chat to other iVillage online daters