Identify your relationship goals

Write down the sort of partner you are looking for and the relationship you want. It will help you to easily make good decisions when you do meet people online and when you go for that first date. Decide which items on your list are nice-to-haves, which are must-haves for you and your deal-breakers.

Be your authentic self

Behaving as the real you prevents anxiety, builds trust and is much easier to be than a fake version of yourself. Research also suggests that authenticity is linked to emotional intelligence and good relationship outcomes. Inauthenticity is linked with narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy – not the vibe you want to give out!

Give people a chance

If you really like their profile, it’s better to try a few different ways to build rapport and then move on if you still don’t get anywhere.

Make your profile stand out

Give insights into who you are that helps people to think, “He/she sounds like a good match!” Move away from generic descriptions and consider telling them something about yourself that speaks about the values and personality you have.

Treat it like any other goal

Research finds that when we set specific markers, we’re more likely to achieve them. So, have an ideal deadline for finding the relationship you’re looking for and for your online dating activity. For example, ‘I’ll contact one person I’m interested in, every Monday and Wednesday between 8pm and 9pm. Be proactive and be consistent.

Sam Owen is a relationship coach and author of Happy Relationships (Orion Spring, £14.99)