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There are a variety of Apps out there to choose from, my advice, one at a time, don’t go signing up to every App or platform there is, you will get overwhelmed very quickly! Start with one, give it a go, if you aren’t finding it is working, de-activate that one and try another App.
You will find most Apps work on the ‘swiping’ method – you are presented with a profile, and you swipe left/right/up or down depending on whether you are interested in that person’s profile (be cautious when using too many Apps as a right swipe on one App may be a left swipe on another App!). Most Apps also offer free versions, and I always suggest trying the free version first before signing up for a subscription (however some of the more elusive/niche Apps will require a paid subscription to use).
So where to start?
All four are very similar and offer free subscriptions though what you get in the free subscription depends on the App. Some things to note:
- Tinder is often referred to as the ‘hookup’ App.
- Tinder and Bumble – you can’t message someone unless you both match with the other.
- Bumble – If you Naga women dating match with someone, the female must make the first move and only has 24 hours to do so, following which the make only has 24 hours to respond before the match is gone. However once both people have sent a message, there is no longer a time frame. It is just a way to get the women to start the conversation and ensure matches don’t just sit there without anyone talking.
- Hinge – You can send a message to someone you haven’t matched with, but that person can still choose not to match with you.
The above are your more common general-type Apps catering to almost everyone however, many Apps cater to more specific types of relationships one might be after. For example:
- Zoosk – More for ‘mature’ dating, i.e., serious, over 40. It is a paid subscription as well, which weeds out those looking for a ‘hookup’, etc.
- Seeking Arrangement – Not quite your Ashley Maddison, however similar.
- Feeld – For those seeking something specific from others (think kink).
- MeetMe – I like this App as it shows you people in your area who are out and about and open to meeting, so if you are in the mood for a lunch date, you can jump on this App, find someone in your area also free and looking for a lunch date and catch up!
Crafting an Impressive Dating Profile
As the first thing prospective suitors see on your dating profile is your photos, it is important to create an appealing profile; however, your profile should also be authentically you (i.e., no Catfishing!). Take it from someone who has been Catfished before, it isn’t pleasant, and it leads to an awkward situation.
Firstly, choose attractive photos. I recently criticised a friend’s Tinder profile as his first photo was his LinkedIn Corporate headshot. Ok for Linked In, not ok for a dating profile, on Linked In, one wants to portray their professional side, on dating sites, one should portray their personality and likes.
- Select a variety of photos – up close selfies, full body shots, candid shots, social shots and above all else, photos of you smiling! When I am swiping away on dating Apps, I look for photos where I can see the person’s eyes (i.e., not all sunglasses or long-distance shots), and I can see the person’s smile (not all pouting shots).