Choosing a username/screenname
Think up a cool username. It's the first thing people see about you. If you're stuck, think about your interests, where you live or who you are. If you like gardening, try secretgarden. If that's taken then you could add your location, or the current year: NYCsecretgarden, secretgarden2005, etc. Do also check out what other members call themselves.

Take your time writing your profile
Write down a few notes about your personality, your positive attributes, interests, likes, dislikes, before you begin to write your profile.

Update Your Profile Frequently
Keep your profile up to date even if you are happy with it because sites will display when your profile was last updated and allow members to search by those most recently changed.

Check for spelling mistakes
Do remember to run a spell check before you post your profile. Sloppy spelling will put some potential partners off.

Do make sure you stand out from the crowd!
Make sure you post recent photo of yourself. Personal ads with a photo attract more than five times the number of responses!

Be honest
Be honest about your personality, looks, marital status. There's not much point in writing about the person you'd like to be, as your potential partner will figure out there's something wrong, when you finally meet. But by all means make the most of your assets!

Stay anonymous at the beginning
As you build trust, you can reveal more about yourself. At first don't reveal your full name, where you live or other contact information in the early stages.

Keep things positive.
Play on your personal strengths and enthusiasm, and share a little something personal about yourself. Avoid negativity and avoid sounding like a victim.

For Men
Avoid stating what type of person you want in your profile. Instead describe the kind of person you are, and let those reading your profile decide if they're compatible.

For Women
For women it's ok to state the type of person you want to meet (the good news), because there are more men searching for women than vice-versa! Having said that, remember your chances of meeting someone wonderful increase if your criteria are not too restrictive!

Selection criteria
Don't have a list of characteristics that your potential partner must have, instead have a list of those that they should not have. Selection this way round will increase the number of potential partners but without the red flags!

If meeting for the first time
Meet somewhere that's public and busy, but not so noisy that you can't hear each other. And make sure you know the route home. Don't get stranded. First impressions count, so wear something smart and comfortable. Don't talk about yourself all the time. Show interest in what your date has to say about themselves, and remember to compliment them.

Do bring your cell phone.
Contrary to some advice we have read about dating, you need your cell phone. Yes, they can be annoying to your date if someone calls you, but you can always call them back! You might need your phone if you've got to call a cab, or for some other unforeseen emergency.

Don't give out private information
Not at least until you are comfortable with your potential partner. This would include your private email address (use one set up for this type of thing), your telephone number, and any Instant Messenger accounts you're using (again, set one or two up specifically for online dating chat).

Don't use bad language
There's no need to use bad language in your profile. You want to look smart and cultured, not bargin-basement.

Don't be negative
If you're a pessimist, say instead that you're realistic! If you feel over weight, say instead you're big and beautiful! If you've had a difficult time in your life, say instead that you're at a cross roads - as one door closes another opens...