If you believe in soulmates, how tragic it would be if the half of your heart were accidentally thrown by the capricious fates to the other side of the world. No wonder so many people go through their lives without finding true love. But with Internet, no distance is too far. It is possible to find your soulmate even if he/she is several time zones away. I found my true love through online dating and I also have friends who found their partners online. But, similar to face-to-face dating and meeting new potential spouse-material, online dating must be approached carefully, realistically, and resolutely. Based on personal experience and the experiences of friends, here are simple tips on how to successfully find love online.

1. Complete a profile - There are probably millions of incomplete profiles in online dating sites. An incomplete profile means that its owner is reluctant or unenthusiastic in finding a partner. An incomplete profile is equivalent to a whistle and a wave whereas a complete one is a formal and sincere introduction of you. Of course, there are people who didn't really want to reveal too much about their personalities. If this is the case, these people should choose online dating sites that don't ask a lot of questions.

2. Upload a photo - All dating sites will require members to upload photos. The photo requirement may sound trivial but a profile without a photo has a lot of negative connotations. For example, it might belong to a scam artist with multiple profiles or its owner does not have enough confidence. Who would want to live with an insecure person? Submit a recent photo that will clearly show your smiling face. And yes, the smile is an endearing and important part of your photo.

3. Write a description - Pick-up lines are easier to memorize and to wield. But with online dating, pick-up lines are rarely used. What is available is an opportunity for members to write a short description. When writing your description, be honest and earnest. The description of yourself is a reflection of your personality. Your true love, on reading it, will recognize you. One paragraph will suffice. Long descriptions are normally ignored. Keep the caps lock off. Capital letters are irritating. And finally, check the spelling of your description. I know, you're not a best-selling author but your description need not look like a hastily written high school essay.

4. Filter your messages - It is tempting to reply to all the messages you receive or to reply to the first message in your inbox after weeks of waiting. But you should reply only to messages that appear to be coming from people who could be a potential partner. Ignore messages that profess undying love right at the start. At best, it is tasteless; at worst, it is creepy. Also, don't reply to messages from people that you know you will never fall in love with, despite their fabulous personality. Replying out of pity is a waste of your time. It also gives false hope.

5. Chat with webcam - Once you've found a person that you like, insist on chatting online with a webcam. Chatting is real-time communication and the other person's character will be revealed. You will also see his/her face and his/her genuine reactions to your words. When chatting, it is best to focus only on one person. Chatting with several people will distract you from your goal of thoroughly evaluating the love potential of a person.

Finding love online can be as fun as face-to-face meetings with new people but it should be carried out thoughtfully. The advantage to online dating is that there is less stress and more potential in finding a partner. After all, the whole cyberspace can be accessed with a few clicks of your mouse.

Learn more about this author, Mayflor Markusic.
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