Should I try dating apps? OR ARE THEY ONLY FOR HOOKING UP?

Online dating has always been my favorite. As a dating expert, I help women learn how to effectively date online. Online dating is a great way to meet people. I have a high success rate with my clients – they almost always end up in enduring relationships. Online dating is a great way to meet people!

What about dating apps? Can you find true love and committed relationships on these apps as well or are they only for hooking up?

I used to think that dating apps were for promiscuous people. Tinder was initially marketed as the “straight people’s Grindr” and many people used it to hook up with strangers. It’s now being used in other ways.

Sites like Tinder, Hinge and Coffee Meets Bagel, as well as Happn, Bumble and Coffee Meets Bagel, are popular among singles who are looking for a long-term relationship. Many of my clients who are looking for marriage have used dating apps, and had a very positive experience. Some people prefer dating apps to traditional online dating websites!

Here’s a list of some benefits of dating apps…

• You can start a conversation very easily.
• Online dating is less work.
• By indicating your interest (or lack thereof), you can limit the number of people who contact you.
• You’ll get less rejection. In most cases, you won’t know who didn’t like you.
• Apps don’t provide enough information to disqualify someone.
• You can find someone near you by using GPS-based dating apps.
• Some apps are integrated with Facebook so that you can refer to them as “friends”.
• The apps are easy to use and quick.
• It is possible to meet someone spontaneously.
• Online dating allows you to go on more dates.

Since each app has its own unique features, here is a list of them.

Hinge allows you to connect with Facebook friends. You can then meet new people and see what friends you share. Privacy may be an issue with this app, as it gives out the last name of the person. This app is great if you’re looking to do some research on someone before meeting. Hinge lets you see a few matches a day, and gives you only 14 days to start communicating. Hinge is the dating app I’ve heard most positive things about.

Happn allows you to connect with people who you regularly cross paths with. Men and women can show interest in each other by “liking” them and sending “charms”. Both parties can start texting if there is mutual attraction. One client turned off the app when she was matched with someone from her office. This app can be cool or creepy depending on your perspective.

Tinder lets both men and woman show interest in a person by swiping left or right. There is no limit on how many people you “like”. A female client told me that men (and likely women) swipe just to boost their egos, without any intention of pursuing the relationship. Don’t be offended if only a few people message you after you have matched with them. It’s important to make it clear that you want a relationship, not just a hook-up. Tinder will also let you know if someone is connected to you on Facebook.

Bumble can be a good app for women that don’t like to be bombarded with messages from men who aren’t really interested. Bumble allows both women and men to indicate their interest. When they are matched only women have the option of reaching out via text, and they only have 24 hours before they must contact each other.

Coffee meets Bagel (love the name!) gives you one match per day. I love it! This app eliminates what I call online dating ADD. The Coffee Meets Bagel App is highly recommended because studies show that when people have fewer options, they are more likely take action and make a choice. The app also has Facebook integration, and only singles who share a common interest can connect.

Here’s a list of 5 things you should remember when using dating applications:

1. Photos tell stories, so you might want to choose one that’s not only flattering but also interesting or fun! You might choose a photo that is not only interesting but also flattering. Try a different photo if you don’t get the response you desire.

2. You can tell people that you’re looking for love in many ways. It’s your choice. Don’t waste time with those who only want to date or have sex. You are too busy.

3. Use your common sense, and be extra careful. Let someone know who you are meeting and where you will be. Don’t reveal personal information until you have confirmed that the person is trustworthy.

4. It’s important to insist on a telephone call. The dating world has become very impersonal. I tell my clients they should always arrange their dates by phone. If they are unwilling to call and not text, then it’s not worth meeting. ‘Nuff said!

5. You don’t need to use a dating site or app, you can go out at happy hour, you can get matched up by your aunt Myrna, or you could hire a matchmaker. Just keep dating. Consistent effort and a smart strategy are the keys to success.

This information is intended to be helpful. What are your favorite and least favorite apps?

Remember, dating can be difficult, but it’s important to have fun. Be yourself, have a kind and positive attitude, enjoy the moment, without worrying about what will happen, and ENJOY IT. Don’t worry if it takes a little longer than you’d like for your love to appear. “The one” will be there soon, so don’t fret! Waiting and putting in effort is the key to success!

Have a great day! Download a dating application! Why not give it a go?