High-quality internet dating sites like Datepad offer you all the tools you need to find a romantic partner. You have compatibility tools, articles, private chats, nudges, emails... you name it. And every day you log on, you use those tools in your search for that special somebody.
But have you ever thought about using your favorite free internet dating site to find friends, instead?
Benefits of Platonic Internet Dating Friends
Sure, there are plenty of other sites out there that specifically cater to those who want to find friends online. So why go to the trouble of looking for platonic friendships on an internet dating site? After all, you have enough to look for there already!
There are a lot of reasons, actually. Friends you meet on an internet dating site are great in a lot of ways-- and may even help you in your search to find a romantic partner instead of just a friendly one. Platonic friends from sites like Datepad (especially if they're the same sex) can be a great resource for improving your search and even finding dates. They might have tips and techniques that you've never used, and will probably be happy to share them.
It's even better if they live in your area. Generally, a friend who uses internet dating has probably come across a few dates that, while great in many ways, may not have been a perfect match for them. If you ask, they might send some of their "leftovers" your way, and you can do the same for them. These "leftovers" are potential partners that have already been screened by somebody you know and trust, raising the possibility that they might be great for you.
Friends you meet on an internet dating site are also great because their situation is similar to your own. You might have a dozen girl or guy friends that you like to hang out with. But if yours are anything like mine, most of them are married with families and lives that look completely different from your own. But if you meet a friend on a site like Datepad, they understand what your life is like and where you're coming from. And as a bonus, you'll always have something to talk about whenever there's a lull in conversation.
How to Find Them
Forming a platonic friendship on an online dating site is just like finding a partner-- it's just a little easier.
1. Do a search in your area. The best kinds of friends are the ones who live close to you-- because they can pass on their date leftovers, and you can meet and chat in person. Also, set parameters for your search that make sense for you. For instance, you might be happy to be friends with somebody of either sex, but it'll be a lot easier (especially for women) to make friends within your own gender.
2. Check out the profiles you like. Most internet dating profiles talk more about what a person wants romantically than anything else. But that doesn't mean you can't learn enough to decide if you might want a friendship. Good profiles let the personality shine through.
3. Send off an email. Especially if you're a woman contacting another woman, you'll probably be shocked at how often people reply to you. Getting an email suggesting a platonic friendship makes for a welcome change of pace.
4. Meet up. Chatting online with your new friend will be a lot of fun-- you can compare emails and profiles and get and give suggestions when you come across an interesting prospect. But you'll probably want to consider meeting in person, too, perhaps as a group. Or even doing double-dating to liven up the process a little.
Internet dating doesn't always have to be about the seriousness of the search. Take the time to lighten up and have fun, too. You never know who you might meet... and how they might help in your own search for love. Good luck!
