Internet dating has become much more mainstream than the days of internet geeks hiding behind a computer screen looking for love. Of course, being more common doesn’t make it much easier to connect through profiles and pictures, especially if you don’t use common sense.

Never Lie

Internet geek or not, it can be tempting to hide behind the computer screen and lose a few pounds, grow a few inches and take on a terrific new career that pays well. But if you’re truly looking for love, you’ll eventually want to meet someone who you find special, and your lies will be quite obvious. Even the small lies that seem harmless can damage trust in an already fragile relationship. Be honest, although you should always try to present yourself in the best light. There is no need to list your prescriptions in your profile, anyway.

Appear Datable

The world of internet dating is all about pictures. The more pictures you have in your profile, the more response you will get from others. But if your pictures make you look un-datable, you’ll find yourself lonely despite many views. Even the nicest people make mistakes when it comes to taking pictures for their profile.

Never show pictures of yourself drunk or drinking with your buddies or gal pals around a bar. You’ll look more interested in having a good time than being serious about romance. You should also avoid pictures that obviously once had your ex in them. Take new pictures and leave those in a shoebox somewhere.

It is not necessarily you that catches the most attention in your profile pics; it’s what you’re doing. Show pictures of hobbies and meaningful activities that you enjoy. This will give others clues as to what sort of things you enjoy. It might turn off some potential dates, but they would likely be less than enthused down the road anyhow, so it’s not a tremendous loss. Take pictures of you at your best, not necessarily with your best toys or accessories.

Listen to Your Heart and Your Gut

When you’re emailing, chatting and talking on the phone with potential dates, you should listen to your heart – it might be love! But you should also listen with your gut. If you’re getting a strange vibe from an individual or feel uncomfortable for any reason, you don’t have to continue the conversation. The beauty of online dating is you’re able to learn a great deal about others before meeting them allowing you to play it much safer than you might on a blind date.

Don’t Play Games

Online dating can be fun when you take it seriously, and it can be fun to be cruel. Karma is a powerful thing. If you intentionally lead someone on through an online dating service only to be heartless and ugly by insulting them or teasing them, you’re drawing serious consequences down the road. The vast majority of people using online dating services are there with good intentions. If you’re not, don’t ruin the potential happiness of others.