1/ Know if you’re ready to date. How long has it been since your last relationship or date? Make sure it’s not too soon.
2/ Research which dating website is the right fit for you. There are websites online for seniors, for people of the same religion, political views and ethnicity. If you know what you’re looking for, try specialized sites too.
3/ Get your friends’ advice. Friends can be honest if you ask them to, so ask them for their feedback on your dating site profile, and any potential candidates.
4/ Make your profile original. Don't pretend to be someone you're not, and don't be a carbon-copy of everybody else.
5/ Re-consider your non-negotiables. Are you locked into your town or neighbourhood? What about age or appearance? Keep an open mind.
6/ Keep your personal information private. Don’t share social security numbers, passwords or credit card numbers.
7/ Don’t rush into anything. As the saying goes, ‘there are plenty of fish in the sea.’
8/ Be patient. With thousands of dating websites, there is no shortage of places to look online for love. But don’t be disheartened if it doesn’t come immediately.