Tips for Online Dating in 2020

Based on the findings of a recent YouGov poll, 24% of resolutions for Americans in 2020 are relationship-centered.

19:11 03 February 2020

Among that number, 12% specifically want to find love with a new romantic partner. With the holiday season finished and Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this is an ideal time to jump into the dating scene, but first, one misconception should be firmly left behind in 2019—the view of online dating as a last resort.

In fact, more couples meet on online dating apps and websites than in traditional ways such as work, school, church or mutual friends, confirms research by Stanford University. 40% of heterosexual couples now find their partner online, and 65% of same-sex couples do too. This data reveals that Americans are ready to move past the “stigma of desperation” that online dating used to carry, and platforms like Match, eHarmony, Zoosk, Bumble and Tinder have made it as simple as the click of a bio or swipe of a photo.

There are new trends on the rise to be aware of in 2020 though—especially if casual hookups are so last decade for you, and a long-term commitment is your main focus this year. The six pointers below can help to boost your online dating success and improve your chances of meeting that person who knocks you head over heels.

Join Online MeetUp Groups to Interact with Other Singles

Are you a hiking enthusiast in Phoenix, Arizona, or a wine-tasting connoisseur in New York City? Do you find it easier to bond with people who share your hobbies and interests? MeetUp is a website that pairs its nationwide members with other locals in their own community who are into the same activities. Whether that means training for a marathon or attending a Scrabble tournament, MeetUp has virtually unlimited options for making social connections that could turn romantic.

Ditch the Posed Selfies and Filters on Your Dating Profile

As you scroll through potential matches on a dating site, who stands out more: a person who seems fascinating to chat with over coffee, or a person who has nailed the “pouty face” in their photo? Research confirms that more people look for authenticity in dating than external features since those who are authentic have emotional intelligence, openness and attachment, notes the Personality and Individual Differences Journal. So opt for real and unfiltered—keep those selfies to a minimum.

Include Any Causes You Are Passionate about in Your Bio

From social justice campaigns like the #MeTooMovement and #BlackLivesMatter, to the awareness of environmental impact, more online daters are interested in those who share their passion for a cause, according to Tinder’s “Year in Swipe” review that was published last month. The mention of hot-button issues like gun control and climate change has specifically become a trend on Gen Z bios, so if you care about activism, include it on your profile. The data shows it’s an attractive quality.

Discover Your Personality Type and Someone Else’s Too

In the early stages of a relationship, “compatibility” is often thrown around—both partners want to know if their quirks, needs, traits and values are suited for each other. While any combination of personalities can work if the couple is invested, it does not hurt to understand how another person sees the world, so you can relate on a deeper level. One of the most common personality assessments is Meyers-Briggs, and Tinder has created a list of ways to connect with each Meyers-Briggs type.

Exchange Actual Phone Numbers, Not Snapchat Accounts

So you and someone you’re interested in are past sending “icebreaker emojis” on a dating app, and it’s now time to communicate in real life? Do not ask for the other person’s Snapchat username or offer yours as a phone number alternative. Since 90% of Snapchat users are 13–25, it has a reputation as the platform of choice for younger audiences, and you could be seen as immature or noncommittal for using it. If you are just not ready for actual digits, WhatsApp is a solid compromise. 

Connect with Someone through an Online Game Platform

Online dating does not have to be limited to a website or app designed for that specific purpose. As it turns out, many avid Fortniters and other gamers use this hobby to form connections and seek romance. An estimated one in three gamers has met a significant other this way, based on the results of a survey from Chumba Casino and 34% agree this is their favorite part of online games, so whether you are a serious or occasional gamer, love could be right on the other end of your headset.