New to online dating- is this a usual thing

[blackbunny]

I lost DH 3 years ago and now feel ready to make new men friends, not necessarily to begin a relationship but see how things go.
I’ve joined Ourtime and have “liked” a few men and have received some likes, I’ve got a handful of “mutual likes” and have sent a short but friendly message to those. I’ve only had one reply-I responded but nothing back. I don’t know if this is a normal experience to expect as I’m completely new to OLD.
Any observations or advice on attracting more responses would be appreciated!

I've never heard of Ourtime but in general, it's very hit and miss with OLD. Matching with someone (or mutual liking) doesn't necessarily equate to messages. Some men are less picky at the liking/swiping stage and then filter once they have matches and some just seem to like the ego boost of being 'liked' but don't intend to message for whatever reason.

Have you tired other sites to broaden your options?

I’ve never heard of our time maybe try somewhere else

Yes it's normal, along with dick pics, abuse, ghosting, married men, creepers, sex maniacs. Gave OLD up ages ago but some people have luck with it. There's several dating threads on here which will explain more. Good luck

Just to add, I met my dp via OLD so if you're prepared to wade through the time wasters, there are actually people out there who want a relationship.

Totally normal! Lots of men won't bother replying, the ones that do often go nowhere. It's a really tough way to meet someone decent, so far I've been ghosted and let down so I've quit for good. My sis met her H online and they're happy so it can happen, but you hear more horror stories than happy ones.

Yep, very normal...keep trying, and get on other dating sites, don't put all your eggs in one basket!

I haven't been on any dating sites, but I think you have to wade through a lot of messages to find someone half decent.
As a widow myself, I'd be "right, I'm ready now!" expecting to meet someone instantly, so maybe you need to lower expectations. From what I read, you have to be quite resilient to do online dating. Look after yourself and hope you have fun.

Thanks so much for all the replies. At least I now know this is common. I chose Ourtime on recommendation of a friend, but yeah I’ll think about trying other sites.

Have just noticed a few of my likes have had their profiles removed! Missed some bullets there!

Another one saying it's totally normal! Equally don't feel you have to respond to anyone you're not interested in either... Good luck with other sites etc... They are all a bit ropey but you might find some good guys among the rubbish!

I just joined OLD last week. It’s a mind field but am chatting what seems a nice guy at the moment. Planning on meeting up next week or the week after. Haven’t swapped numbers as I don’t want to give mine out till I meet them. Best of luck