In the free online dating world, you can search for potential dates and interesting people by sitting at your computer with your hair a mess and wearing a pair of sweatpants that you wouldn't normally be caught dead in, but this is online and no one is the wiser, right?

So when it comes to Online Dating, what everyone sees out there is the dating profile you put up. However, the tragedy is that many put far too little consideration into what ends up being their first impression to the online dating world. Your profile is your first impression for anyone who passes by it, so you have to make the judgment call and you have to be honest with yourself.  Ask yourself, "Is this the best way I want to be seen?"  If it's nothing special then you won't get a second look.  You must stand out!

Your headline is the first thing someone sees - so make it catchy and draw them in for more. Do not put  "Single White Female (or Male)  Looking for Fun." Who isn't, when in doubt look around and get some ideas from others, humor always works, too.

Next tip for your online dating profile is to use a recent picture. One that shows how great you look but the key here is recent.  Don't use a picture that is 10 years old, because that's not you anymore!

The next step is to tell them about yourself in the most fun way possible. Tell them why they should choose you over everyone else. Don't be lame and say "I'm smart and enjoy movies." Go for the gusto and tell them how you really are and why they need to get to know you.

Make sure you tell them exactly what YOU are looking for as well. You don't want to say you like to party all night if you're normally in bed at 9pm or say you love going on picnics but you really don't like nature very much. If you're a romantic, say it!  See my point, honesty is the best policy.

You are your most prized possession, so don't short-change yourself.  Online Dating can be a lot of fun.  It will be even more fun if you meet someone and you don't have to fake anything because, it's (mostly) out there already (well the basics, that is.)

The best thing to do is have fun and you'll be surprised what the online dating world can bring.  There are many free online dating services out there, and many are memberships and those tend to have more responsive people

About The Author:
Lisa Porter is a writer and researcher for online dating topics who has many years experience evaluating online dating websites.