Online Dating - Responding to Doubters
by Debra Barrow
Looking at the statistics on the growth of online dating, it is quite apparent that more and more people are now seeing this as a respectable method of finding a romantic interest. At last count there are approximately 40 million users of online dating sites as opposed to 3 million in 2002, and 120,000 marriages a year. Yet, even with this astounding increase in dating site users, some people still doubt that a significant relationship can be found online. Below are a few concerns that have been expressed.
by Debra Barrow
Looking at the statistics on the growth of online dating, it is quite apparent that more and more people are now seeing this as a respectable method of finding a romantic interest. At last count there are approximately 40 million users of online dating sites as opposed to 3 million in 2002, and 120,000 marriages a year. Yet, even with this astounding increase in dating site users, some people still doubt that a significant relationship can be found online. Below are a few concerns that have been expressed.
Still too Non-traditional
Some think that online dating is too non-traditional and cannot take the place of personal introductions by family members, friends, social events or bars. The truth is that many family members and friends are so geographically scattered, that matchmaking is nearly impossible. Also, even if relatives and friends know individuals in the same location, do they really know if the person is a compatible match?
Further, many times these matchmaking attempts do not transfer into full blown relationships. Having been matched up in the past with the result being a disaster, I can safely say that most people are reluctant to be "fixed up". Furthermore, the person doing the matchmaking often feels at fault for not picking the right person. Why let someone you care about carry this burden?
On the other hand, online dating sites give people the opportunity to select their own dates and make compatibility decisions through photos, profiles, emails, instant messaging and phone calls. No one else is involved or responsible for the choices that are made. In regards to social events; unless it is a singles’ affair, many guests may already have dates; and bars, for the most part, are not appealing places for meeting serious minded people.
The Person Could be Stalker
Suggesting that someone join an online dating site sometimes creates a response of “suppose the person I meet ends up being a stalker or is deranged?” Well, this could happen with offline introductions also. With online dating, encountering someone that could be a danger can be avoided by not giving out personal information until you feel comfortable and when the information is mutually exchanged. Also, on the first few dates, meeting in a public place is highly advisable, and letting someone know where you’ll be is safety backup. In addition, discontinuing communications with someone who makes abusive statements or acts suspicious is necessary.
Wasted Time, No Results
Another objection is that someone may feel that they’ve wasted time and money and can’t make a connection. This can be addressed by being specific in profiles regarding what you are looking for, not responding to people who's values and interest are to the extreme of yours, having several fresh photos posted and making sure they can back up what's stated in their profile.
Too Busy to Stay in Touch
Another common objection is the person may be too busy to keep sending and replying to emails on a regular basis. A response to this concern is that mobile communication devices make it possible to check messages and reply from most anywhere. Also, time will be made for the right person.
Success Story
Of course, I' m biased to dating online, being married for 6 years after meeting my husband on a major online dating site 7 years ago.
Success Story
Of course, I' m biased to dating online, being married for 6 years after meeting my husband on a major online dating site 7 years ago.
Women Dating Online, Make Small Changes....Get Big Results (Special Report)
