There are many digital options for human connection such as Zoom meetings, online fitness classes, live stream concerts and more. Even if you don’t have a romantic partner to enjoy your isolation time with, that doesn’t mean you can’t date.

Now, since there are numerous digital options, digital or virtual dating has actually become more popular. For example, on Tinder, there is a 12% increase in conversations via the app. On March 29th, there were more than 3 billion swipes which is significantly more than any other past day on Tinder. This is quite similar to what Bumble reports where there was a 35% increase in messaging since social distancing became a norm.

Even though there is nothing quite as exciting as dressing up and going on a real physical date for the very first time, there are still lots of benefits of online dating. You can now date from the comfort of your home using any video messaging app that you prefer.

So, we will now take a look at some highly recommended virtual dating tips according to Lovenet-jp.com.

The most popular social distancing app you should be paying attention to is Kast since Houseparty and Zoom are old news!

Presentation

Even though you may want to go on your virtual date in the same clothes and surroundings you have for your typical work from home environment, you should reconsider. Remember, your first impression matters a lot and your surroundings will reveal information on your lifestyle and habits. So, make sure that you don’t have a messy bed in the background. It may be best to place your laptop so that it is opposite of a window or even a lamp. This will ensure that there is enough light hitting your face so that your date can easily see you. You should also place your laptop so that it allows you to look at your date on eye level. This can be done by placing it on a couple of books and will go a long way in making you look more attractive.

Be Natural

Keep in mind that a conversation is not just about stating facts but also connecting. So, try your best not to be like an interviewer with a bunch of questions such as what’s your job? etc. You don’t need to talk about what happened during your day or other constraints. Instead, you should prepare yourself to talk about your hobbies that you enjoyed before the lockdown, what you want to do with your life and future etc.

Be Creative

Once you find yourself interested in a particular person and you’re having multiple virtual dates with them, make sure that you find ways to keep the dates stimulating. For example, you can play an online game together such as Never Have I Ever, Charades etc. You can even enjoy the same meal together by ordering from Deliveroo. Consider double dating with friends so that you can develop more intimacy between you. One great way to do this is with Houseparty. You can definitely increase closeness by sharing games or even sharing quarantine video diaries. Sharing plans for when quarantine and self isolation is over is also a great idea.

Set Boundaries

Be aware and careful with people who are quick to push your personal boundaries or try to make you do things you don’t want to do. This includes breaking lockdown to meet in person, having overly sexual conversations too soon etc.

If chatting does become more sexual, make sure that you get consent from your love interest before you start sharing photos or taking off clothes. Once you can create trust and encourage connection over time, everything will flow naturally.

Decide When You Should Quit

During a first date, you should strive to keep this date short and enjoyable and once you feel uncomfortable, know that it is perfectly fine to end the video call. If the sparks aren’t flying, all you need to do is make any excuse you can come up with such as you need to do a chore or make dinner. If your date is eager to schedule another virtual date, try to let them down as gently as you can if you’re not interested. However, if you can’t wait for another date, them let them know you enjoyed the date and make arrangements for another virtual date. When it comes to dating from your home, it is quite simple and is a great way to get to know someone and dial up the excitement before you can actually meet in person after the pandemic.