Online Dating as a Baby Boomer
If you’re in the Baby Boomer generation, you may feel out of place finding a new partner online. However, you're not alone. From 2013 to 2015, the share of online dating sign ups from boomers doubled from 6% to 12%.
Between setting up a profile and mentally preparing to meet someone new, online dating can seem overwhelming. But fear not. With a little time and effort, you’ll be an online dating master in no time!
Choose the right photos
When dating in the new online world, it is important to have a profile that is both truthful and enticing. Make sure to have at least one decent full body shot of you, as well as a current headshot.
Many boomers make the mistake of posting pictures of themselves when they were younger, but that doesn’t accurately display who you are now. Imagine someone matching with your profile because they saw your vacation photos from the early 2000’s, only to find out that you look quite a bit different from what they had expected. The reason online dating was created was to make it more efficient to find a partner, so lying just drags out the process and wastes time for both parties.
Honesty is the best policy
Make sure you are honest about what you’re looking for when writing your profile description. Maybe you just had a divorce and are looking for something casual. Or maybe you haven't found “the one” yet and want a long term partner. Both are okay, as long as you're honest about it.
Let your potential matches know what you want in a partner. Do you want someone active or someone more laid back? Are you looking for someone with a big family or do you want someone who was never married?
If you’re not sure where to start, take a piece of paper and write down what your dream partner’s qualities would be. Are they gentle and kind, or are they confident and bold? By listing these things in your profile, you’ll waste less precious time and increase your chances of finding the match you’re looking for.
Invest in Your Appearance
If you’re just getting back into the dating scene, it might be helpful to spend some time on your appearance. First impressions are everything! Imagine showing up to a first date to see the cutie you met online in a suit from 1993. Though some vintage clothing can be chic, it’s a much safer bet to stick with the fashions of today.
Take some time to figure out what your body shape is and dress to your figure. To get a fresh new look, you can even check out some makeup tutorials for Baby Boomers on Youtube. Your match will be impressed that you took the time to invest in yourself, and you’ll have a much better chance of landing a second date!
Be Open to New Experiences
As a boomer, it can be challenging to open your mind to new people and experiences, especially if you’re just coming out of a previous marriage. Habits are hard to break, but it’s important to know that just because you lived a certain way so far, doesn’t mean you have to do it for the rest of your life.
There are women who have been housewives for the past 35 years who are now traveling the world with their new partners. There are men who have worked in the office full time for the past 40 years who are now driving RVs across America with their new SOs. Whatever the new experience, just make sure to keep an open mind. You may be surprised at the new things you’ll love!
Dating as a Baby Boomer can seem difficult, especially online. But by making a good profile, investing in your appearance, and being open to new experiences, you’re much more likely to find compatible matches and land great dates. Always remember to be honest, and don’t be afraid to have fun!