September 20, 2009
The Myths Surrounding Internet Dating
A huge number of new online dating services have appeared in recent years. Some newspapers and magazines have published some sensational negative stories about the dangers of internet marketing.
Some newspapers have suggested that online dating is really only for sad and desperate computer geeks. Nothing could be further from the truth.
One common myth is that online dating isn’t safe. The truth is that dating through an online service that requires membership is obviously much safer than dating a complete stranger who you’ve just met in a pub or club.
Some of the best online dating services will do what they can to ensure that their members are as safe as they can be. Also, the cost and commitment required from members precludes time wasters and those looking for a quick one-night-stand.
Another common misconception is that online dating is only for computer nerds. The days when you needed a computer degree to operate one have long gone. These days computers are used by everybody, young and not so young.
A magazine article that I once read told readers that all the people using internet dating services were liars who had made up all sorts of fancy details about themselves. People can and do embellish the truth and misrepresent themselves, but people can do this anyway. Many of the best online dating services will take steps to verify personal details but people also need to rely upon their own judgement.
Another commonly believed myth is that online dating is really only suitable for young people. This is a bit like the idea that internet dating is only for geeks, this is simply not true. Online dating has worked for many people of all ages. I have a couple of close older friends, both in their sixties, who found love and romance through online dating. He runs his own company car leasing firm and she worked for a well known van leasing firm. They had so much in common that they really hit it off immediately and they’re now planning their wedding.
It has been suggested that internet dating is for socially inept, desperate people. People who sign up to online dating services are generally honest, genuine people who are socially capable. They recognise the benefits that internet dating has provided by putting them in touch with like minded people. Another friend, who found love through internet dating, plays guitar in a local jazz band. He also owns a very popularl loca guitar shop. For him, guitars are his life. An online tating service introduced him to a fantastic lady who shared his keen interest in jazz and guitars and she is also a great jazz singer.
One criticism applied to online dating services is that they are too expensive. My personal view of this is that I would prefer to use the services of the more expensive internet dating service as this is less likely to attract the time-wasters and those looking for a cheap one night stand. The cost of the service should be compared with what it would have cost in dinners and drinks to learn as much about your date.
Online dating services are here to stay. It provides a fantastic and effective way to meet like-minded people with whom you share common interests and who knows, maybe romance will be in the air.
