"TO NET OR NOT TO NET: THAT IS THE QUESTION?"

Click...hmmm click...hmmm click, click....What's that you ask? Why that's the sound of a mouse searching for 'the one'. Yes, folks, matchmaking services with catchy names like 'Plenty of Fish', 'Lava-Life' and 'E-Harmony' just to name a few are ready to reel unsuspecting lonely hearts into their community of sexy singles looking for love.They're on the rise and their definitely here to stay.

There are thousands of profiles to feast your 'lookin' for love' eyes on. One more promising than the other as you click your way through to exactly what you're looking for. All of which share the common goal of finding that special someone designed especially for us to spend the rest of our lives with. Sounds unrealistic doesn't it? Well, not so considering it's a wonderful (not to mention discreet) alternative to meeting dozens of people in the privacy of your own home, office or school (or anywhere for that matter really) without the awkwardness of a lounge type setting. It's a blind date sans the middleman.

Question is does it work? Well, those fortunate enough to find what they've been looking for all their lives (or a reasonable facsimile) has been known to happen. Hey, if success stories ceased to exist then these places would have packed up shop long ago. Other social networking sites such as the ever popular 'MySpace', 'Facebook' and most recently 'Twitter' (with their 'tweets') have gone the extra mile to provide additional places to rekindle a lost love, find old friends and make new ones. It's a one stop shop of sociability!

When choosing a reputable online dating site it is best to do a bit of research. Yes, it does go a long, long way. If you have family, friends or colleagues that have used a particular site and have found success (even in the friendship department cause you just don't know what the future holds) that's even better. Remember there's nothing better than word of mouth especially from people that you trust. Below are some guidelines that I've compiled to help you on your quest to find your very own Mr./Mrs. Right.

1. Do some research and find a reputable site. Make sure it's safe and ensures keeping your personal information private.

2. Write down what your needs and wants are. The more vague your profile is the more people you must sift through to find what you are looking for so be specific.

3. Be honest when filling out your dating profile. As we all know lying doesn't pay especially when looking for your ideal mate. Remember, it represents you so have fun and but be realistic in your expectations.

4. Check out your competition before replying to any ads. Read over your own ad and compare it to others. Does it jump of the page and make you want to read further? If not then tweak it to give it that wow factor characteristic it's missing. Hey, if it doesn't strike your attention how will it strike the attention of others?

5. Always be weary! If the person you are considering replying to (or already have) gives the impression that their too good to be true, they probably are. Learn to see a scam from a mile away. Predators are plenty (after all this is the net) just don't end up being their unsuspecting prey!

6. Chat several times before the face-to-face meeting. This is a great way to screen thoroughly, break the ice and to weed out the creeps from the cutie's. Also make sure you meet in a public place and whatever you do NEVER invite strangers over on your first meeting. Safety is the key!

Well, there you have it online bachelors and bachelorettes. You now have the tools to send you on your way into the cyber land dating realm. The rest is all up to you and although there are no guarantees in finding 'the one' this way. It sure is fun trying. Besides, just think of all the new and interesting friends you'll make along the way. Hey, and who knows this may even be a potential stepping stone to your very own happily ever after. Below find some helpful links that'll get you on your way. Have fun and play safe. Click away!

http://www.plentyoffish.com/
http://www.lavalife.com/
http://www.match.com/
http://www.eharmony.ca/