The 10 Commandments of Online Dating

Online dating apps and websites have been total game-changers, helping countless people find everything from fun flings to true love—and they could do the same for you!

But if we're being real, just signing up isn’t a magic ticket to your happily ever after. To make the most of your online dating journey, there are a few key tips you’ll want to keep in mind. Here are 10 of the absolute must-knows to boost your chances of finding the one:

Online Dating’s 10 Commandments: 10 Dating Rules You Must Remember

1. Thou Shalt Not Use Boring Openers

Online dating makes finding everything from long-term love to casual connections easier than ever. But let’s be honest—sending generic messages like “Hey” or “What’s up?” isn’t doing you any favors.

One of the top complaints in the online dating world is that people don’t respond to messages. And often, it’s because those messages don’t stand out. If you want to catch someone’s attention, put a little effort into your opener.

Forget corny pick-up lines—they’re outdated and often cringe-worthy. Instead, try crafting a message that references something specific from their profile. Maybe they’ve mentioned a love for hiking, a favorite book, or a quirky hobby. By showing you’ve taken the time to read their profile, you’re instantly more engaging and way more likely to get a response!

2. Thou Shalt Not Get Angry

Rejection is never fun, but it’s part of dating—online or otherwise. If someone isn’t interested, it’s not a reflection of your worth, and it certainly doesn’t give you a pass to lash out. Letting anger take the wheel won’t do you any favors and could even hurt your chances with others.

This isn’t just an online dating rule—it’s a golden rule for dating in general. Stay graceful, move on, and keep swiping. The right match is out there!

3. Thou Shalt Not be Impatient

Patience truly is a virtue, especially in the world of online dating. Just because you sent a message doesn’t mean you’ll get an instant reply. Remember, everyone has their own schedule, and not everyone checks their dating app obsessively.

Some people respond within hours, while others might take a few days—or even weeks. If you assume silence means disinterest, you could miss out on something amazing. Give people the time they need, and don’t jump to conclusions. After all, good things come to those who wait!

4. Thou Shalt Not Lie

This one’s a no-brainer, but according to surveys, it still happens way too often in online dating. Sure, it might seem harmless to embellish your income or exaggerate your lifestyle to grab someone’s attention. But here’s the thing: if your connection grows, the truth will come out eventually. And when it does, don’t expect them to shrug it off and “give you a chance” anyway.

Even small lies—like pretending to be an art aficionado to impress a match—can backfire. You could end up pursuing someone who isn’t actually compatible with you. Be honest about who you are, your interests, and what you’re looking for. Authenticity is far more attractive than a made-up persona!

5. Thou Shalt Not Send Unwanted Messages

Crossing boundaries isn’t just about losing your cool after rejection. Sending unwanted messages or inappropriate images is another big no-no in the world of online dating.

Flirty or intimate messages can be great—if you and your match are both comfortable with it and have established clear consent. Until then, it’s best to keep things respectful and thoughtful. Trust and communication are everything, and rushing into something too soon can derail what might’ve been a great connection. Respect their boundaries, and they’ll respect yours!

6. Thou Shalt Not Expect Much if Thine Profile is Boring

Think of your dating profile as your first impression—it’s your chance to show potential matches who you really are. If your bio is empty, generic, or lacking personality, and your photos are just a string of standard selfies, how can anyone see what makes you unique?

You might be an amazing catch, but you need to show that! Highlight your hobbies, passions, and quirks. Share what you’re looking for in a relationship and what makes you tick. It’s not about writing an essay—it’s about giving someone a reason to swipe right and want to learn more. And hey, most of us love talking about ourselves, so have fun with it!

7. Thou Shalt Keep it Casual (at First)

You might end up with a match who becomes your confidant, cheerleader, and partner for life. But in those first few messages, keep things light and fun. Dive into shared interests, swap funny stories, or ask about their favorite travel spot.

There’s no need to jump straight into your deepest secrets or the trials and tribulations of your life. Serious conversations will naturally unfold over time as your connection grows. For now, think of your chats as a playful way to break the ice—and maybe spark some chemistry along the way!

8. Thou Shalt Research Your Options

Not all dating platforms are created equal, and picking the wrong one can lead to a less-than-stellar experience. Take the time to explore your options to find the one that aligns with your goals.

Research your options to make sure you’re not wasting your time. For example, if your faith is a priority, Christian Mingle might be the perfect fit. If you want to limit your matches to people over the age of 50, SilverSingles might be a better option.

9. Thou Shalt Move On When It’s Time To

Handling rejection isn’t just about not throwing a fit—it’s also about knowing when to let go. If someone isn’t interested, respect their decision and avoid asking them to reconsider.

Clinging to the hope that they’ll change their mind not only makes their online dating experience less enjoyable but also wastes your time. Rejections happen, but they’re not the end of the world. There’s someone out there for you—probably more than one! The sooner you move on, the sooner you’ll find someone who does want to swipe right on you.

10. Thou Shalt be Honest About Thine Intentions

Honesty is the backbone of successful online dating. Whether you’re looking for a soulmate, a casual fling, or something in between, knowing what you want is key.

Be upfront about your intentions when chatting with matches. If they’re looking for a long-term relationship and you’re just in it for something casual, don’t mislead them—it’s not fair to either of you. Being clear from the start ensures you’re both on the same page and saves everyone time.

And remember, online dating is supposed to be fun! These tips aren’t here to intimidate you—they’re here to help you get the most out of your experience. When you approach dating with honesty, respect, and an open mind, the odds of finding someone special skyrocket. So, dive in and enjoy the journey!