5 Online Dating Tips

Men face a unique set of challenges when dating online, but they can greatly increase their chances of success by simply following these 5 online dating tips. Since members of most dating sites only rely on written communication in the initial stages, presenting an honest and complete picture of yourself is the most important strategy when searching for love online. 

1. Post photos. Online dating profiles with photos generate a lot more interest than ones without photos. Make sure your photos are recent and represent what you look like now, not who you were five years ago. Pick pictures that show you doing the things you enjoy most, whether it's the hanging out at the beach, cooking at home or a playing fetch with your favorite four-legged friend. 
2. Tell the truth. Some people find it easier to tell white lies online than face to face, but remember that eventually you will be meeting a woman in person and you don't want to start off a relationship with a lie. Lies on your profile—for example, saying you have a bachelor's degree when you actually have an Associate's—will eventually come out and hurt the trust in the relationship. 
3. Communicate respectfully. Some men seem to think that being a gentlemen goes out the window when communicating online. In fact, you should actually be more respectful, since teasing and humor are difficult to effectively communicate in writing. A joke that may have gotten a laugh in person may come off as rude online. 
4. Be safe. Just like the bar scene, online dating has its fair share of weirdos. Be careful not to give out too much personal information on your profile and only agree to a phone conversation or meeting after you've invested time in getting to known someone online. Your first meeting should always be in a public place, preferably during the day.  
5. Get offline. The purpose of online dating is to meet someone that you can develop a relationship with in the "real world." After a week or two of online communication, suggest setting up a phone call or meeting for coffee in a public place to see if your click in person, as well as online.