Be honest in your dating profile. You may be tempted to lie about your job, height, or interests, but the lie will eventually come out. [2] X Research source Keep an open mind. Even if you might not click one hundred percent with someone’s profile, you might connect with them after messaging. Don’t underestimate the importance of good profile pictures, so get some high resolution photos that really show off your appearance. Avoid some common mistakes like group shots or photos where you’re wearing sunglasses and hats. Have a friend preferably a girl that you respect review your profile to help improve it because women and men think differently.

Don’t join an online gaming site specifically to meet women. Women on these gaming sites will be most interested in dating you if you share a passion for the game, not if you’re looking for love.

Also, keep from saying too much about yourself. Focus your messages on her and genuinely try getting to know her instead of impressing her. [5] X Research source

If you met them on another site, ask questions based on what you already know about them. For example, ask someone you met on an online gaming website how they got into gaming. Ask someone you met on an alumni group what they majored in and what they’re up to now. Don’t just send a form message to everyone. Personalize the questions based on her specifically. This will show her that you care about her and that you have mutual hobbies.

Men who send more general, personality-oriented compliments to potential dates over physical compliments receive more replies. People like to be complimented on who they are, not what they look like. [8] X Research source

Consider leaving it up to her to suggest meeting in-person. Some women may feel nervous meeting a stranger in-person, and letting her decide will give her control over the situation.

While men say that their favorite place for first dates is restaurants, women prefer coffee shops. Keep in mind that a casual location might help her feel more comfortable. [10] X Research source

You may have heard that the golden rule for first dates is avoiding politics, but this is actually not true. If you both enjoy politics, go ahead and talk about it but remember to respect her opinions even if different from yours. [12] X Research source Open up the conversation with something genuine! For example, ask a sincere question or make an honest compliment.

Remember, you don’t look as anxious as you feel. People tend to overestimate the visibility of their own anxiety. If you don’t feel confident, fake it until you make it. [13] X Research source

Sometimes finding someone interested in a second date may take time. If the first person you meet with declines, don’t beat yourself up. Keep getting to know people and keep dating.

Try to keep the conversation light and comfortable. Starting the conversation with, “What are we?” can make her feel anxious. Let her know that you care about her no matter what and that you’ll respect her choice, even if she doesn’t want to be in a relationship.

Sometimes, raw feelings may get in the way of keeping a friendship. If you need space to process your emotions, let her know. Don’t give up! When you’re ready, return to dating online. In time, you may find “the one. "