5 tips for successful Internet dating

The Internet is a marvellous way to meet people when you're looking for love or simply companionship. Here are five tips that can help you make the most of its potential and avoid the possible pitfalls.

Most people will be keenly interested in what you look like and you'll have a much better response rate if you make a picture available.

• Choose one in which you look your best, and make it a recent and honest headshot (not a snap of you sitting in your friend's Ferrari a decade ago).

All sites allow you to write something about yourself. Be reasonably open and frank, and make it meaningful.

• "I love cooking for my friends — especially Thai food..." tells others about your interests and the kind of person you are.
• Avoid clichés like "I enjoy candlelit dinners or I'm a glass-half-full person", as they are unlikely to set you apart from others.
• Similarly, steer clear of bald statements, like "My friends say I have a good sense of humour". It's much more telling if you prove your humour through the information you give and the way you give it.

There's little point in striking up an online friendship with someone who lives on the other side of the country; remember, the aim is to find someone you can have a real relationship with.

If the signs look good, meet up for a drink (not a meal; save that for the second date).

• Even if romance doesn't spark, you might end up enlarging your circle of friends, which itself increases the odds that you'll meet someone you want to be with.

• Meet your new date in a public place, and don't accept an offer of a lift, especially to or from your home.
• Always tell a family member or friend where you're going to be and what time you expect to be home, and make sure your cell phone is fully charged so that you can make contact if you need to.
• Avoid the temptation to drink too much — you need to like the person sober.
• If you're at all uncomfortable, make your excuses and leave.

Don't let Internet dating intimidate you. With these simple tips, you can create a attractive profile and stay safe while meeting new people.