Social Networking for Singles!

Who hasn’t heard of Facebook, Linkedin or Twitter? The basic purpose behind all three of the main networking sites is to make it easy for people to connect with each other. In the world of computers, social networking is nothing new. The potential of online communities was recognised early on by companies such as Compuserve and America Online.

Today, the availability of easy communications thanks to fast internet-connection speeds and the general affordability of computers and smart phones mean that growth in the use of social-networking sites has exploded. Beyond the obvious sites, people were quick to realise further potential: that of finding dating partners. For online singles dating and match-making sites are now extremely popular.

Profiles

All online dating sites allow users to create a personal profile that then becomes their introduction to the world. It’s possible to screen potential partners, browsing the profiles to find suitable new friends by location, interests, age group or any number of other factors.

People can communicate and exchange information, getting to know each other remotely before deciding whether they wish to meet face to face. While some may claim it takes the spontaneity out of dating, others point to the fact that by interacting first in a remote environment, potential partners can at least find some common ground before deciding to meet up.

The reasons for using social networking sites for dating purposes vary between members. Some may be looking for short-term relationships or just friendships or companionship, while others are looking for long-term relationships or marriage partners.

Overcoming Shyness

Many people find it difficult to approach possible dating partners face to face. Fear of rejection, or being made fun of, is a barrier to dating that online social-networking sites help to break down. Some sites dedicated to dating allow members to indicate to each other a level of interest before any two-way interaction takes place. If the interest isn’t returned, there’s no loss of face and no embarrassment involved. Simply move on and find someone else.

Membership Sites

General social-networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, are free for everyone, whereas many dedicated dating sites charge a membership fee.

For people looking into networking specifically with the intention of finding a dating partner, joining a membership site makes sense. You know, for instance, that every other paid member of the site is serious about finding some kind of relationship.

Many membership sites allow limited access before asking for a fee. You may be able to upload a photo and profile information that includes the type of person or relationship you’re looking for. Often you can browse the profiles and view the photos of other members. To make contact with other members, though, most sites charge a fee. The dating site, in effect, acts as an introduction agency and charges accordingly.

Advantages and Disadvantages

As dating sites become more sophisticated, they’re leaving behind the ‘lonely hearts’ stigma. Many people enjoy multiple online relationships in parallel encounters and at the same time avoid the traditional expenses of offline or face-to-face dating.

The disadvantages of using social networking for dating include the distance you might be from a potential partner. Location on the internet might be irrelevant, but when it comes to a real-world meeting it is not particularly convenient to find that your ideal partner lives on the other side of the world.

Social networking is here to stay, however. As more singles look for dating adventures online, specialist sites work hard to make it ever easier for likeminded people to meet.

Author Bio:

Shirley Jones is a freelance content writer and she writes articles and blogs on online singles dating and other dating related services.