You finally decided to take the plunge and sign up for an online dating service. You can't figure out, however, which site to choose. Here are a few important tips to help you with your selection.
Although there are many sites geared towards dating, there are only two types of online dating services—free and paid. In an attempt to entice you to join, some sites will offer free memberships. The catch might be this: Before you can contact prospects, many have fees ranging from $9.95 to more than $60 per month.
A free online provider such as plentyoffish.com, seekwealthy.com, etc, one only charges minimal amounts like blackpeoplemeet.com, typically doesn't offer background checks or compatibility matching. You might meet a few who are looking for "the one," but you are more likely to come across people who are not as serious in their search as members on higher priced sites. The chances of kids playing on the net or married people creating false profiles increase with free providers. Dating services that charge more than $24 per month generally require a lengthy profile. Some require background checks, which can scare away would be posers, elevating your chances of finding a match.
In Deena Williams' article, Do Dating Websites Work? Williams says, "When you first begin with the online dating scene I would highly recommend that you avoid the completely free dating sites. I have had friends that were turned off from online dating because they chose to go with the free dating sites."
Another thing to take into consideration is what you're seeking in a partner. Some sites are group specific. Meaning, if you are seeking a particular ethnic group, religion, age group or certain level of income, I can almost guarantee there is a site for you. If you are seeking an interracial relationship, then Afroromance.com, also known as InterracialDatingCentral.com, would be perfect for you. If you are seeking a relationship with a wealthy person, MillionaireCupid.com might be just what you're looking for.
"The Internet is a tool, not a magic wand," said dating expert, Deborrah Cooper, of AskHeart- Beat.com.
There are great online services as well as bad ones. Doing your homework is the key to finding the best one. Determine if it will be worth your while. Compare several sites to see what they have to offer. Browse the members list. See if anyone catches your eye. Once you have narrowed down your selections, do an Internet search to see what others have to say about your chosen site and go from there.
If you spend a lot time scouting for the perfect house or job, shouldn't you spend more time searching for the RIGHT partner? Remember, you get what you pay for.
