Has anyone ever used match.com or similar?

[dancinggirl]

Hi, seem to remember reading a thread on something like this a while ago. Just wondered if anyone had any good/bad comments/advice on this kind of dating? I know it's wrong, but part of me thinks men who use these sites must be a bit dodgy (although I know that if I'm looking, what does that say about me?! ) Have only ever browsed profiles in the past just to see who's out there (God that sounds awful doesn't it). Must admit only one of two have ever appealed, then today out of the blue I received what seems like a really nice and genuine e-mail from one whose profile I had thought sounded lovely but would never have had the courage to contact first. Do you think I should go for it and if so, how is it best to play these things on the internet? I am a total novice, so would be grateful if anyone has any tips for safe internet dating. Many thanks.

PS Am not around tomorrow, so if anyone does reply, please don't think I'm being rude if I don't acknowledge til the weekend!

I met my DH on DatingDirect so yes I would say go for it.

My rules were be very very picky about who you decide to meet in real life, swap a few emails to get a rough idea about the person.I'm a grammar pedant and can't stand people using text speak so this was a good way of weeding out a few.

If there is no photo get one from him quickly and likewise if you haven't posted one send it. Yes physical attraction is shallow but if you find the person obviously ugly or weird then that is time saved.

I wouldn't enter into a long email or phone relationship with them, this has happened to me a few times and then the guy didn't want to meet up or it was a total disaster as I had built up a mental image of what they were like and the reality was very different.

I would arrange to meet up for drinks or lunch rather than dinner and make sure you give a reason/excuse to leave after a couple of hours because that way if you aren't keen then you haven't insulted someone dreadfully.If you are keen it makes you look like you have a busy schedule which is also good.

I wouldn't schedule too many dates as it is quite nerve racking and becomes hard work if they are too tightly slotted in.

The majority of the men I met were pleasant and enjoyable company even if there was no spark there. Obviously I don't think most of the blokes dating on the internet are weirdos and in fact the difference I found is that the majority were open about looking for a relationship and much less into game playing than guys met through other methods.

I hope it works out for you.

Lots of them are married pretending not to be

I'm using match.com at the moment. My experience is that there are plenty of genuine men on there.

I'd agree with Rookiemum - chat first on email/MSN before arranging to meet up, but don't leave it too long.

I'd also be a bit wary of men who won't send you a photograph.

Also, don't feel like you have to reply to everyone who gets in touch with you. Bear in mind there are lots more men on there than women.

Also, I reckon you get what you pay for.

Good luck!

Oh, another tip is, if you're meeting up with someone, let a friend know where you're going, who you're meeting and get them to give you a well timed call/text to check everything is OK.

Many thanks for all your advice. It's certainly given me a lot to think about. I intend to proceed, but with extreme caution!

You're very welcome! It's been a real eye opener for me, I can tell you. I've had lots of fun.

i got have been on aol dating, and have emailed a bloke for the last few weeks, he asked me out and i nearly wet myself with excitment!!! but this next week is really busy for me so we are meeting next week!!! i am so looking foward to it and i hope i am not disapointed (bought new outfit, and really going to pamper myself before i go on my first date in 15 months