January marks the most popular time of the year for online dating, with singles worldwide pledging that this is the year they will find love once and for all, and jumping online to do it. Chances are though, if you're single, this won't be the first time you've tried online dating-in fact, you probably have an online dating profile already! It's not enough to simply sign up online, if you want to have true success meeting a match on the internet, you've got to be smart about it. Doing the same old things you've always done won't work. Don't do the bare minimum! Make 2014 the year that you not just put up an online dating profile again, but also make it work for you. Here is how to have more luck online dating this year than you did last year...it's easy!
1. Revamp your profile.
I know, I know, you're the same person on January 1st as you were on Dec 31st, but a profile makeover is just what the doctor ordered. There are going to be thousands of new members streaming in daily over the next few weeks, and you don't want to get lost in the shuffle. Most online dating sites favor profiles that are frequently updated and have constant new information to share. Upload your favorite holiday photos (you looked to good on New Years Eve not too), or rewrite your bio and interests section. Shaking up your profile will also give you the feeling of starting with a clean slate and not to mention, if you've had your profile up for a while and it hasn't been working for you, why wouldn't you change it?
2. Go out with different people, even if you think they are a bit weird.
There is a difference between expanding your horizons and lowering your standards. I would never suggest you do the latter...but the former? Heck, yes! If you only date men who are over 6ft tall and make a million a year, you might be spending the next few holiday seasons alone. The key to successful online dating in 2014 is saying YES more often than you say no. It's taking a chance on someone whose profile intrigued you but you aren't quite sure you're a match. It's accepting a last minute coffee date when you aren't busy anyway. The more you put yourself out there, the greater your chances are of finding the one person who will stick for good. Note-"weird" isn't always a bad thing!
3. Take advantage.
Most online dating sites offer more than just a place to park a profile and an instant messenger option. There are meet up groups, forums, twitter parties, events, online dating profile makeover and tips, etc all at their member's disposal! Take advantage of every ounce of help your online dating service throws your way. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help if your profile isn't getting a great response, or if you're nervous before a first date. Send a quick tweet or email their customer service department asking for tips. If they are hosting a free happy hour on your way home from the office, stop by-you never know who might be there! Success stories are the absolute best form of marketing an online dating company can get-they want you to find love!