Right now, the future looks uncertain, and the dating landscape is confusing, with so many apps and platforms encouraging online dating and video dates to combat the spread of the virus.
In the future, many experts believe that the dating marketing will remain online, with more singles seeking to chat with their potential mates over video before they meet in person.
Online dating and video chats are convenient, but they can also be awkward, and no one enjoys gaping pauses and stuttered conversations. If you want to avoid awkward pauses, both in virtual dates and any physical meetups you might go on once the lockdown is over, then read on, and we’ll share our expert tips.
Find Someone You’re Compatible With
Before you meet with your date, you should try to find someone that you’re going to get on well with so that your date goes without a hitch. Try not to video chat or date people too soon after you connect with them so that you can learn about them and find out if they’re the sort of person that you’ll get on well with when you meet.
Try To Find Common Ground
One of the easiest ways to avoid awkward silences is to find a topic that you’re both passionate about, whether it’s a hobby, band, food, travel, or something else. If you’ve got a strong passion that rules your life, then you could even consider trying out a dating site designed specifically for people like you.
For example, gamers could try Gamer Dating, a dating site that’s committed to helping gamers to find love. The platform allows you to connect with your fellow gamers and find someone who you’ll have a lot in common with so that you’ll always have something to talk about on your dates.
Read Their Profile Before The Date
It might sound obvious, but you need to read their profile thoroughly before you go on a date or video chat with your match. If you don’t read their profile, then you might connect with someone whose views differ greatly from yours, or make a faux-pas that results in an uncomfortable pause.
You should read all of the info on their profile and scan your message history before your date, so you don’t repeat yourself or say anything that could offend them. By being prepared, you’ll boost your chances of successfully connecting with your date and earning a second.
Create A List Of Questions Before Your Date
When you’re reading their profile and scanning back through your past conversations, put together a rough list of questions to ask your date. Then if you do encounter a pause during your date, or a touchy subject, you can quickly change it and get things back on track.
Jot your list down and keep the notepad handy so that you can see it during your video date.
Be Approachable
Awkward silences often occur when one person is uncomfortable or unsure about how to initiate a conversation, so try to be approachable and friendly. Video dates can pose a challenge, particularly for people who feel uneasy speaking on Zoom, Skype or FaceTime.
Learn how to behave on video dates so that you can make your date feel at ease and encourage the conversation to flow.
Getting a video date with someone that you’re interested in is exciting, but also daunting. Use these tips to reduce the chances of an awkward silence ruining your date, so that you can try to find the connection that you’re looking for and enjoy the experience of online dating despite the pandemic.