How Dating Websites Work

Most dating websites have to walk the tight-rope between getting enough "free" members to build their database and entice new members - and getting enough "paid" members to sustain their operations.

Signing up is free with most dating websites. You can create your own profile complete with drop-down choices, an opening line and those descriptive 'essays' that most people hate to write. You can also 'search' free of cost for members that meet your search criteria.

As a 'free' member you cannot message other members. However, a paid member can message you. It is usually free to reply to paid members.

Even if you're willing to pay for membership, it's best to avoid websites that don't allow unpaid members to respond for free.

Let's face it, on any given website there are plenty of people who are just 'testing the waters'. They might find you promising, but not enough to whip up their credit card and buy a membership. If they don't respond, you're simply wasting time and money!

Similarly, most dating websites provide a free option to express your interest in getting to know another member - with a digital kiss, smile, wink etc. The recipient may ignore your message, indicate interest for free or initiate a mail/ chat conversation.

With a free membership you are often confined to people who are interested in you- but the interest might not always be mutual! To broaden your field, opt for a paid membership so you can send a customized mail message or initiate a chat conversation.

Don't pay the first dating website that shows up on your Google search! Read our reviews first and join a few Internet forums to share the experiences of real people who tried the dating service.