Gone are the days when a boy would show up with flowers at your front door. Now, they send you a rose emoji via direct message. In a society where we can do everything on our smartphones, it’s no wonder that online dating is becoming more popular than in-person meet-cutes. As a twenty-five-year-old, it’s more common to hear that the newest couple met via the latest dating app rather than in person. So, follow me, and let’s lean into dating in the digital age.

 

TINDER, BUMBLE & HINGE, OH MY!

Not only do you have to find your one true love online, but now you have to figure out what app they’re on! But luckily for you, they’re probably on all of them. According to an unofficial poll, I asked my friends to participate in, the three most popular dating apps are Tinder, Hinge and Bumble. But, as of late, Tinder seems to be on the outs. It’s conventionally known for its casual nature and not for real connections. On the other hand, Hinge is known for being less surface level. I mean…their slogan is literally “Designed to be Deleted.” The app requires its users to be more engaged by using prompts to encourage a deeper conversation. Bumble is known for letting women make the first move. Which, in theory, is very cool and aspirational. But, if you’re anything like me, that sounds more like a nightmare. Nonetheless, Bumble also has prompts in the app and offers “Bumble BFF” for friends and “Bumble Bizz” for networking. My advice? Join them all. What’s the worst that could happen?

 

PLEASE DON'T BE A SERIAL KILLER

*Cough Cough* Well, anyway... With the explosion of dating apps, the consumption of true content has also exploded. It’s hard not to scroll through any streaming service and not see shows like Deadly Dates, My Online Nightmare, The Tinder Swindler, Swiped to Death, etc. You get the point. Safety in the dating world is a huge concern. But there are ways to mitigate the risks. For example, tell your friends the plans and share your location. If you have a friend with FBI-level detective skills, let them uncover any potential red flags without making you feel like you already know everything about the guy! Most importantly, trust your gut. It’s telling you something for a reason.

 

NOT AS ADVERTISED

There's nothing worse than waiting for a date only to have someone show up who looks nothing like their profile picture. When looking at someone’s profile, use context clues! For example, if your date is wearing their fraternity’s letters in their profile, you will probably have a hard time recognizing them at that dimly lit bar where you decided to meet for your first date. Now, this point goes both ways. Sure, I look really cute in that photo from my senior year of college. But is it an accurate portrayal of how I look now? Nope. Have those around you take inventory of the pictures you include in your profile; that way, you can avoid an awkward conversation or unnecessary ghosting.

 

BOOO!

Sorry, did I scare you? Ghosting is a pandemic in our society (too soon?). Everyone these days has gotten way too comfortable disappearing without a trace. But here's the spooky truth: communication is key! Let's all make a pact to be a little braver in our interactions, a little more honest in our responses, and a lot less ghost-like. And by “we,” I’m obviously not counting me.