The 10 Commandments of Online Dating

We’ve scoured the interwebs for the best and most useful advice on online dating. While these aren’t exactly bible, they are worth keeping in mind. So let’s get started...

Thou shalt post more than one photo

If you want more people to respond to your messages or initiate conversations with you, you have to have more than one photo on your profile. Have a variety of photos, not just the same selfie over and over again. Make sure to showcase your hobbies or interests where you can. And please make sure you have at least one solo shot of yourself!

Thou shalt not lie

You’re probably familiar with the show Catfish. Long story short, don’t be that guy. As tempting as it is to portray the version of yourself you wish you could be (and let’s face it, everyone lies online), it is best to stay true to who you actually are! After all, you want someone to fall for the real you, not the fantasy you.

Thou shalt be unique

Don’t make your profile generic! And as tedious as it is, actually spend time crafting a profile that reflects all the unique parts of you. These parts will then ensure that not only will you stand out from the crowd, but that you’ll attract the right kind of person.

Thou shalt actually read profiles

We all know that online dating is a numbers game, but that being said, remember that quality is always better than quantity. There’s no point messaging a whole bunch of people just for the sake of getting a response. So, read their profiles, see if you have similarities, hope they’re being honest and go from there.

Thou shalt not wait around

If you’re interested in someone, make your move! Don’t linger on their radar hoping they’ll talk to you (like a lot of people tend to do). Show initiative and interest, and make the first move. Open with something you found in their profiles that really caught your attention, that’ll show them that you’re genuinely interested in getting to know them.

Thou shalt not send a dick pic

Or be crude in any other way, shape or form. People have this idea that being aggressive online is okay because there are little to no repercussions. But this is a mistake that a tonne of people (especially men) make; that’s why pages like Bye Felipe exist. To put it simply, if you wouldn’t do it in real life (i.e. flash someone on the street), don’t do it online. Remember, be respectful and keep it classy.

Thou shalt always remain respectful

Even when you’ve been rejected! If someone’s not interested, it’s their right to be. Don’t take it personally and don’t get creepy about it. Respect their honesty and go your own way.

Thou shalt trust your gut

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s probably because it isn’t. Don’t disregard how you feel for the sake of having someone to talk to. If this person doesn’t make you feel good and in fact, makes you feel really uncomfortable, cut ties before it’s too late.

Thou shalt not bail

If you’ve arranged to meet someone in real life and are having second thoughts about it, tell them. Don’t just flake out on them, no one deserves that. Let them keep their dignity by telling them you’ve changed your mind; it’s the far kinder alternative.

Thou shalt not lose hope

When it comes to online dating, you’ve got to be in it to win it. Don’t get discouraged by a few false starts. The honest truth is, you’re gonna have to chat with a few toads before you find Prince/Princess Charming.

Now you know the 10 commandments of online/app dating, register for Jodi today!