In a recent Consumer Reports study, Melissa Emsley had been using online dating apps for five years, and like any new user, she was hopeful. Emsley explains, “When you get your hopes built up … to meet the right person and then that chemistry is just not there. It can be discouraging.”
And Melissa’s not alone. In Consumer Reports’ survey, respondents gave online dating sites the lowest satisfaction scores Consumer Reports has seen for any rated service in two decades, surprisingly even lower than cable TV companies. Margot Gilman, money editor for Consumer Reports, says, “Online dating is different from shopping for other kinds of things, like a sweater. Once you find a sweater you like, you get it. With dating, the sweater has to like you back.”
While many remain dissatisfied, surprising 44 percent of respondents who tried online dating say they have had or are in a serious long-term relationship or have gotten married, thanks to dating online. Emsley explains, “I was about to give up online dating completely, when I got a message from Brian. I definitely have that site to thank for my relationship today, so it can work out. ”
Consumer Reports says you can maximize your results by choosing the right site from the beginning. Margot Gilman explains, “If you’re interested in meeting someone who, say, likes the same kinds of movies as you do or follows the same faith as you do, you can probably find a website that specializes in helping you find just that.” Consumer Reports also found that OKCupid and Tinder are more popular among Millennials, while Generation Xers and Baby Boomers are more likely to use a paid subscription-based dating website or app such as Match.com
Here are 3 Easy Tips To Avoid Online Dating Burn-out.
1. Don’t waste too much time chatting online: Develop a few questions to establish trust and avoid meeting with any crazies. Find a safe public location to meet up once some guidelines have been established.
2. Be honest: It may be easy to lie on your dating profile but this is a sure way to waste your time and the time of others. Talk briefly about your real interests to maximize the likelihood you and your date have lots to talk about.
3. Have an open mind: Finding the ONE takes times. Don’t give up!
