Tips of online dating:

Photos are a must.
While it is admirable to seek a profound connection with someone based solely on like interests and goals, it is completely unrealistic to expect people to take you seriously if you are too afraid to put up a recent photo. At the very least, a photo will allay fears that the person on the other end is not one of America’s Most Wanted — criminals, that is.

Choose your photo carefully.
Do not put up pictures of yourself flexing in your underwear or shots of your rear end or your old wedding photos or anything else of questionable nature. Ask one of your conservative, practical friends to help you. Everyone has at least one.

Good grammar is attractive.
Try not to show off your ignorance of the English language by misspelling every other word and making up your own rules of punctuation. It is the equivalent of approaching someone in real life with a big glob of spinach stuck in your front teeth—not attractive!

The truth shall set you free.
Be truthful in your profile, particularly about your age, marital status and relationship objectives. There are people online just looking for sex. If that is you, say so. Mainstream dating sites are truly meant to be relationship sites, not a source for casual hook-ups.

Keep safety first.
Pay attention to red flags such as inappropriate comments, sexual overtures or prying questions about how to find you. Always have your first few dates in public places, drive yourself and bring a charged cell phone. Ladies, please use common sense. Men, do whatever it takes to make the lady feel safe. PoV