Meeting people and making friends can be tricky at the best of times. Not many people are totally comfortable with approaching a stranger and striking up a conversation.

But what happens when you turn this scenario into an online or internet environment? Suddenly you are interacting with text in a chatroom, small blurry photos and no physical contact.

With the increase in popularity of online dating sites or ‘meeting places’, a new set of rules and etiquette come into play. And for over 40’s it’s no different.

Although common sense should prevail, here are some hints and tips for ensuring your online experience is safe and comfortable.

• 1. Understand the online environment
  Many over 40’s will not have registered with an online meeting place before and will be just as nervous and unsure as you may be. Check out the help section or FAQ (frequently asked questions) when you browse the site. Clues to how you can register, view profiles and contact members should be readily available.


• 2. Browse who is registered online
  Not everyone will be ‘live’ online - ie at their computers - when you are, this is why you need to register and read about the people who are already listed in the site. There should be several ways to browse, for example, you can choose to only view profiles with photos, or those close to your home or only those who share your interests.


• 3. Register and develop your profile – it’s free
  Most sites allow you to register for free – by registering you are letting everyone know you are ready to meet other people online. When you write your profile, try and describe yourself the way your friends would. Although it may be tempting – avoid fudging the truth, someone will want to meet you face-to-face at some point and it will be difficult to hide the fact that you are 10cm shorter and 10 kilos heavier (if that’s what you want to fudge!).


• 4. Add a photo to your profile
  Website traffic statistics show that profiles with a photo generate up to 15 times more views by other people than those that don’t. And make sure your photo shows the ‘real’ you – in normal clothes - no hat or sunglasses covering your face – and please remember to smile!


• 5. So you’ve seen someone you want to contact?
  What next? If you want to make contact with someone on the site you are free to send another member an electronic ‘flirt’ which can be activated by pressing on the ‘rose’ icon on the member’s profile.

In most online friendship and dating sites, if you want to contact another member personally via a written email you will be able to do so as a PREMIUM member for free! This membership gives you the right to interact with the members of your choice through emails and on the chatroom and forums.

For more information or to have a go – visit www.Forever-Young-Club.com.au