We recently read an article claiming that there may be some new rules for online dating – and began to think about what rules we, as a decade-old dating site, could impart to members and non-members alike to help them have the most success while navigating the sometimes-confusing world of e-dating.

Like the famous book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, we figured that long-term habits and skills are more important than just any one thing you can do to get better at online dating, so we gathered 5 of the most important ones we could think of – 5 of the most important things singletons should be doing, whether they’re looking for a one-time fling or long term love.

1. Don’t stress… desperation stinks!

One of the reasons we believe OBC works so well to get people on dates is because there is no expectation of wedding bells. People sign into OBC to go on dates, meet new people, and hopefully score some between-the-sheets action with another like-minded single. However, even if you’re on a more “traditional” dating site, it’s important to remember that there are nearly 7 billion people on this planet. You WILL meet someone. The more high-strung and overly-attached you act, the less people will be interested. There are very few people in the world who WANT a stage-5-clinger.

2. Emphasize safety first, foremost, and always

Safe meeting places, safe sex, safe decisions. ALWAYS.

3. Be type-A about your profile (but still follow habit #1!)

If you haven’t updated your profile in a long time, there’s a good chance it doesn’t really describe you anymore. And if your profile just says, “hit me up,” chances are no one will ever “hit you up.” Keep your profile clear and concise and make sure it represents the real YOU. Have a friend check it out to keep you honest.

4. Be positive – a bad date is NOT a failure!

Sure, bad dates suck. You might know twelve minutes into a date that you are NOT. FEELIN. IT. But don’t roll your eyes and think “online dating is the WORST.” Instead, learn from the experience, be polite, and get out of there whenever it’s possible. Then swear off picking dates whose photos are only of their tattoos.

5. Be open-minded

You might think you have a “type,” but many times, people realize later on in life that their “type” was totally wrong! Maybe you thought you liked a big, buff jock type, but really you enjoy spending time with a lit major who’s never seen the inside of a gym. Or maybe you’ve always ogled blondes and brunettes, but it turns out the coolest girl ever is a redhead. Know what you’re looking for, but remember – people may surprise you.

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