James Allen News Center

In 1991, before web 2.0, online dating was reserved for freaks and geeks. Today, however, that is no longer the case. Millions of really cool, successful people are using the internet to find love. With the demands of work and busy schedules, many people simply don't have the time to go out frequently and meet new people. Plus, online dating helps weed out people who aren't a good match for you while connecting you to those who have similar interests and lifestyles. So drop the stereotypes and stigmas! It’s 2011 and if you're looking for a serious relationship, online dating is a great option.

Online Dating Sites: Paid sites are usually more reliable than free dating sites. Most sites are reasonably priced and have a wide variety of all types of bachelors and bachelorettes. Make sure to do some research before committing to a site to find the one that’s right for you. For example, some sites cater to specific religious groups or lifestyles such as vegetarianism or world travelers. A good site will have tutorials that help explain how to write a good profile and optimize dating experience.  

Facebook Flirting: Facebook is a wonderful way to meet potential partners. Don’t shrug off a random friend request or even a poke here and there. Let’s face it, Facebook has millions of users who actively update and check their profiles. Friends of friends are not complete strangers and probably have common interests considering they have the same friends. Browsing through profiles and perusing walls will help you form a basic idea of whether he or she could be the one. Don’t over analyze a profile; it’s just an online representation of an individual. Remember, love can be a friend request away!

Forum Fun: Forums bring together people of a common interest in a way that other online network do not. People join forums to meet others like them with similar interests and discuss topics in depth. Announcements of meet-ups, conferences and social activities are often posted on forums. There are forums for all kinds of people, for all kinds of hobbies and occupations. If you enjoy fly fishing or beading, join a forum with like-minded people. You’ll be surprised how many potential mates there are buzzing around the forum world.

As with any dating, use your smarts and don’t give personal information to anyone you feel is not reliable. Online dating doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go out and meet people in the real world. It’s just another way to expand your network and help you find your perfect match!