If you're like most single guys, you've probably tried online dating. But if you're one of the many who've had little success, don't worry, we can help you change that.
Read our step-by-step instructions to maximize your success online. With our handy tips, your luck is bound to change.
1] Choose the best dating app
The first step to success in attracting women online is being on the right app. This is easier said than done because there are a lot of apps out there. The problem is, they're not all created equal.
Finding the one that's right for you is key. The best way to determine which app to use comes down to two main things: doing your research and matching your needs to the best apps out there.
Reading reviews before hitting the download button will give you a better idea of the audience the app was created for and how it works. Keep in mind, good reviews typically mention the writer's personal experience with the app. Articles that give nothing more than a general overview are usually marketing ploys to get signups.
There are a few reviews that are definitely worth checking out. We put together a review of the best dating sites for 20-something men and there are also several great reviews on Beyondages.com covering some other great options.
Once you have a list of the best sites, it's time to match the app to your needs.
If you dig older women, there are some great sites specifically for that. Sites that cater to men who want to date women over the age of 30.
If you like variety, why not try a large established site like Match or eHarmony? As long as you're looking for a relationship (and not a hookup), this site offers guaranteed results.
Thanks to its patented Compatibility Matching System, this app has a good track record. These are just a few of the great apps out there to help you find companionship.
2] Pick the perfect images
Once you've hit the download button and filled out your basic info, it's time to put your best face forward.
Notice we said best face. One of the worst mistakes you can make with your profile is posting photos with your head cropped out. It's not mysterious or intriguing. Women will find it annoying, creepy or both. Headless pictures will have the ladies thinking you're either really ugly or that you're married and looking for some action on the side.
Instead, you'll want to choose pictures of you smiling at the camera. A smile is 14% more likely to have women swiping or clicking on your profile.
Another thing to keep in mind is one headshot isn't enough. Additional photos should show more of you and accentuate your best features.
If you have a six-pack, for instance, it's OK to show it off but not through a cliche mirror selfie. Instead, you'll want to choose a picture of you hanging out at the beach or out on a boat-somewhere where it's natural for you to be shirtless.
Choosing photos where you're doing something interesting is also a good move. A picture of you shooting hoops or hiking will hint that you're an active guy with a lot of interests. And that is something women always find attractive.
Now if you don't have any good photos, try to at least take a good selfie.
3] Make your profile stand out
Your bio is a vital component to your success. If your bio is boring, or worse, barely filled out, you can kiss any chance of getting dates goodbye.
The bio is your chance to make a favorable impression, so you'll want to talk about your most desirable and positive personality traits. Are you outgoing? Say so. Are you creative, fun-loving or intellectual? Let the ladies know.
You can talk a bit about your job, but you'll also want to describe your hobbies and passions. And, above all, be honest when writing your profile. By being genuine and authentic in your bio, you'll attract women who will actually be a good fit for you. And that is essential for a quality relationship or hookup.
The other vital component is being upfront about what you're looking for. Whether you want a serious relationship or a friend with benefits, being honest about what you're seeking will help you find like-minded ladies.
4] Make a good first impression
The first message you send to a woman is crucial. If you fail to pique her interest, it's unlikely you'll receive a reply.
Keep in mind, attractive women receive tons of messages from interested men, so if you want yours to stand out in her crowded inbox, you need to put in some effort.
And that means "hi" or "hey" isn't going to cut it. You'll also want to avoid sending a "you're beautiful" message. It's unoriginal and is unlikely to impress her, especially when she's received dozens of identical messages.
To really capture a woman's interest online, you need to do some research. Carefully reading her profile can give you at least a little bit of insight into a lady's personality and interests. And that information can be the basis for a great first message.
There are a few different ways you can use that info to get her attention: you can reference a common interest that you share or you can compliment her profile.
If you do share a common interest like reading, let her know. For instance: "Who's your favorite author? Mine is James Patterson."
If you can't find a way to connect over a shared hobby, go for a compliment. Other than her appearance, what did you like best about her? If you focus on that, you have a pretty good chance of hearing back from her.
Try something like: "You have, by far, the most interesting profile I've ever read. Since you mentioned you love to travel, where's the best place you've been to?"
This type of message not only shows you're interested in her as a person, but it's also the type of message a woman is more likely to respond to because you've already done all of the heavy lifting.
You've thought of a topic to talk about-all she has to do is answer your question. And most women will keep the ball rolling by asking you where your ultimate travel destination is.
Once you've received a response, it's up to you to keep the conversation going. This is where many guys fall back on compliments like "you're so hot," but that isn't the way to impress a woman.
Instead, you'll want to focus on establishing a bond with her. Treat your online interaction like a first date and really get to know her. You can ask about her hobbies, her job or what she's most passionate about.
Remember, if she enjoys chatting with you online, chances are she'll be interested in meeting in person.
We're not saying you can't talk about sex ever, but it's best left until you've really gotten to know the lady you're messaging. If you've been chatting for a few days and things are going well, it's definitely time to start flirting. But ease into it slowly and avoid cliché phrases like "you're really hot" or "you're beautiful." She's heard that hundreds of times before.
To take your flirting to the next level, check out her profile pics and note her best features. Then find a way to compliment her that isn't mundane. Instead of saying "you have a beautiful smile" or "beautiful eyes" try something like "You have the kind of smile that lights up a room" or "your eyes are the first thing I noticed about you."
As for sex chat, take your cue from her. If she's getting very flirty, you can up your level of flirting accordingly. Remember, it's hard to tell a woman's reaction online.
You don't know what her comfort level is when it comes to talking about sex with someone she's never met in person. Your best bet is to keep sexual remarks classy. In other words, don't tell her you want to "screw her brains out" and avoid sending or asking for explicit pictures.
Attracting a woman online isn't that hard if you know what you're doing. If you follow these six key tips, you'll be enjoying online success in no time.
This article is contributed by Rachel Timmons.