With over 1400 dating apps/platforms available these days in cyberspace, how do you choose the right one? Once you have chosen, do you know what you are looking for? Do you know which photos will gain the best traction for you online? How will you describe yourself? Do you seek friends’ assistance with all/some of the content on your online dating profile?

I am not here to make this complicated; rather, I’m here to simplify things for you! So, here are some simple tips, followed by a Dating Quiz that will rate your dating efforts from an A to a (gulp) F.

Choose a Dating Site with the Right Demographics for You

A bit of research online (or a good dating coach) can give you an idea of some sites that resonate with your age and demographics. I recently had a 65-year-old marketing executive (female) who was gifted a dating membership for Mother’s Day to Tinder! Maybe her 20- and 30-something kids thought they were helping – but wrong site for this Mom!

Know Your Goals

If you have been recently widowed or divorced, your goals may be vastly different from someone who is 55 and never married. I have found many of my widowed/divorced clients would like to dip their toes in the dating pond and find some nice men to initially meet and re-gain their self-confidence in dating after being with one person for 20-30 years.

On the other hand, someone who has been dating the last few years actively may right off the bat be looking for a serious relationship.

Don’t Underestimate Photos

Oh, photos! Your goal should always be to have 5-8 photos ready to post, showing you in different aspects of your life – perhaps golfing, walking your dog, gardening, skiing, giving a presentation, laughing with friends, a holiday photo.

Most photos should be of you alone – not selfies – and let us see your beautiful eyes and hair. (Hint: remove the sunglasses and hat!)

Make Every Word Count

Describing or writing about yourself can be difficult and often frightens some singles off online dating altogether! Reach out a hand for help to 2-3 of your girlfriends and ask them each to describe you in 4-6 words.

There is your answer! (Note: I would recommend some discretion with this as you do not want to be put off by a naysayer who has had a bad experience with online dating. Remember: 1 of 3 couples in the last years met and married via online dating.)

Fill in Your Info

Once you have chosen the site, fill out the information that the site wants – 100% of it! This will increase your odds. I have a successful 62-year-old male client who posted one photo and wondered why women were not flocking to him. I am happy to report with a few fixes he is meeting the type of women he’d hoped he’d meet online!

Ready for your Dating Score and some fun, adventure and exploration? It’s time to find your Dating Score and how you rate! Have fun!

How many different dating apps have you tried? Have you looked specifically for an app that caters to your demographic of interest? Do you think you know everything about online dating, or is there a lot you still need to learn? How did you score on the dating quiz? Let’s chat!