It’s no longer unusual to find love online. In fact, lots of single people make it a point to reserve nights at home in order to search, browse and message potential suitors and future spouses. Although their online hunt may lead to squat – or worse, heartache – they still try.

So, there are a several basic online dating tips on how to find your soul mate:

#1 Do not compromise!

The first rule of success is to not compromise! If you definitely want to meet a man to marry and have children, make that one of your criteria! If someone don’t meet your requirements, just don’t waste your time writing out a detailed pity response to each other. If you really want to tell them NO, make sure you have a standard reply.

“Thanks for your reply. You sound like a great guy, but I don’t think we’re a match. Best of luck in your search!”

Simple as that. And you are on to bigger and better things…

#2 Sell yourself!

The next thing you should do properly is you profile information. Don’t write the usual cliches like: “I love romantic walks on the beach”, or “I love going to the movies”, or something like that.. Write something personal about yourself. If you have any hobbies – write it down.

#3 Do not lie!

Many people fear online dating for the same reason: They’re afraid people aren’t honest in their profiles. The temptation to knock off a few pounds, a few years, or even to add a figure or two to your salary can be tempting. But resist the urge!

You’re looking for someone who thinks you are the most fabulous person in the world. So don’t worry about whether you had look better if you made a little tweak here, a little change there: If you want a lasting relationship, you will need to find someone who loves you just the way you are.

#4 Involve your friend!

Online dating doesn’t have to be something you do secretly on your own. Get your friends, your coworkers or even your family involved. It’s great to get input on your profile (or someone else’s) from people who know you.

Plus, keeping friends in the loop by checking out different profiles together makes the whole process more fun!

Don’t forget to get some guys involved. We all know great men similar to the one we’d like to meet. Get their opinion on your ad… and follow their advice!

#5 Do it yourself!

Remember that part about not expecting the perfect guy to come to you? Well, now’s the time to go find him.

Search through thousands or even millions of profiles by making use of different filters available on the site.

Whether you narrow potential dates down by age, distance from you or even specific preferences like smoker or nonsmoker and hip-hop or classic rock, be proactive and look around at who’s out there. Jot down favorites you find as you go and create a list of your top 10.

Be brief, be friendly and highlight a common interest if you can. For example:

Hi. I saw that you went to Vassar — I did too! What year did you graduate?
or

Hi, there! So, you love bulldogs? I have one (Sparky). You can see him in one of the pictures on my profile. What do you think? Is he cute enough for you?

If he had not come across your profile before, you know he’ll check it out now.

Following these simple tips you may find your perfect match very soon.