How to meet people online correctly: practical advice

Practical Tips for Online Dating

The second spring under quarantine due to the coronavirus is underway, meaning that despite the warm weather, we spend more time at home and less time meeting people in real life. Online dating and communication have become a part of our daily lives.

Choosing Between Dating Sites and Social Networks

Online communication has blurred the lines between virtual and physical interactions, making platforms like social networks, SMS, messengers, Skype, and Zoom essential parts of our lives.

Psychologist Anna Litvinchuk points out that online dating often carries an unfair stigma. “Men and women on dating sites are frequently labeled as losers, a prevalent stereotype,” she explains. Therefore, she recommends using social networks as they allow for a level of mystery. “Being on a social network” suggests: “I’m here because I have many friends, lots of news, and I’m open and friendly.”

Benefits of Social Networks for Online Communication

Everything in a social network is visible—friends, photos, events attended, and posts from years past. You can see the work and educational background of someone you’re interested in.

“Online dating sites often treat potential relationships like a contract, immediately demanding to know what each party owes the other, losing the romance and allure that are so important in the early stages of dating,” the psychologist notes.

Dating on a social network implies mutual interest beyond just physical attraction.

Transitioning from Virtual to Real Life

The psychologist reminds us that quarantine will eventually end, so we shouldn’t rely solely on dating sites and social networks. Smile at people you like on the street and in cafes, attend events, engage in sports, travel alone—these activities provide many opportunities to find your other half.

“Also, watch how much time you spend online. If it’s more than half an hour a day, it’s time to worry, otherwise, you risk living your life with a computer rather than with a loved one,” the expert advises.

How to Properly Meet and Communicate Online: 5 Rules

1. Organize Your Profile Your social media or dating site profile should be neither empty nor overloaded with information, photos, and reposts. Remember, it’s your “face” and says a lot about you. Don’t try to craft an ideal image—just be yourself.
2. Choose a Beautiful Profile Picture Profile photos are important, but your avatar is the first thing people notice. Never use pictures of cats or celebrities; it’s the worst decision. Your avatar should be a current photo where your face is clearly visible.
3. The “First Like” Rule If you want to catch someone’s attention, like a photo you find appealing. This rule applies to both men and women. However, maintain a sense of measure—don’t like everything. If there’s no reciprocation, wait at least a day before leaving a comment.
4. Be Reserved and Friendly Once a conversation starts, behave naturally—don’t bombard the person with questions and stories, but also don’t be too aloof and cold. During the conversation, you’ll learn about each other, assuming the other person is also interested in regular communication.
5. Take the Conversation from Virtual to Real Quarantine won’t last forever, and opportunities to meet are available now. If you enjoy talking to someone and share similar values and desires, move your communication from the virtual world to reality. The feel of in-person interaction may differ from online, but if it’s the right person, things will likely go well.

Despite the quarantine, we continue to be active pedestrians and cyclists, so it’s important to follow the rules. If you don’t, you might end up parting with a certain amount of money. New fines for pedestrians and even cyclists are already in effect in Ukraine. Blogger-pensioner Grandpa Panch has figured it all out and shares it in the latest episode of his YouTube show.