Dating is one of those things which is either a hit or a miss. This fact becomes glaringly true if there is an actual face to face encounter. If a good match is made, then great for the couple. If it’s a mismatch, however, hello awkwardness! And both of them have to ensure it the whole time they’re going to be together; meal, movie, car ride, etc.
Fortunately, there’s more than one way to get into the dating game. Say hello to online dating! At this point, the question may be “What is online dating?” Online dating usually necessitates joining a specific social network. Here, individuals make their profile by entering information about themselves, uploading pictures, writing more about themselves including their dating preferences. Opportunities for interaction are also present via chat rooms, private messages, message boards, video calling and even VOIP services.

Now that the “what” has been answered, the next question would be “Why should I try online dating?” To find out if this is for you, it’s always nice to make a list of the pros and cons before diving into it.

The Pros:

• Browse for prospects online. It is like a grocery where everything is placed in neat rows. You can screen the people you want interact with based on your own criteria.
• There are fewer probabilities of awkward moments. People can interact without even having to see each other. Once the conversation or the “relationship” goes south, it is easy to end the date by simply logging out.
• Get to know someone before meeting them face to face. Take all the time you need to get to know each other via the services offered.
• Date in the comfort of your own home. No need to worry about what to wear and the hassle of putting on any make up. Instead, put on your favorite pajamas, let your hair loose and put your feet up!
• Spend less! Usually, clients are just required to pay a one-time joining fee.

• Very accessible. The Internet is everywhere! There are no hassles about where to go and what to do. They simply log on to the sites when they feel like it. The date can last for as long or as short as the individuals like.
• There’s no awkward decision-making on who has to pay for what.

The Cons:

• Fake information abounds. There are fake profiles everywhere. It is very easy to upload fake photos and information. Online dating may even be used as a way to scam unsuspecting people.

• There is the possibility of getting emotionally attached to someone you haven’t actually met yet. The relationship may be smooth-sailing online but compatibility may not be as ideal once the meet up happens.

• Intimacy is absent. The experience of being able to hug, kiss or simply touch someone is nonexistent.

If you do decide to give online dating a try, make sure that the site you chose is secure. Be smart. Do verify all the information that is being given to you. Have a fun and safe online relationship!