The search for your special someone
Christopher DeLorenzo, Match.com

There's no denying it: Members of the gay and lesbian community are significant contributors to the community of online dating. Almost all reputable internet personals sites include same sex matches. In this busy world where meeting quality people is often difficult, online dating is a great option. But before you start checking out the profiles online — or even create your own free profile — let's consider what most of us are looking for in a date.

Honesty is the only policy
First, it's important to represent yourself honestly. If we agree to meet and you've gained fifty pounds since you posted your photo, neither of us is going to get what we want. I'll expect to see someone with a different body and face, and you won't be accepted right off the bat for who you really are. Consider posting more than one photo, so those who are interested can see you three-dimensionally.

Others will read what you write
Secondly, write with an even, friendly tone. I made the mistake of making my first profile very serious and too long; I sounded somewhat annoyed when I wrote things like: "I'm not into watching TV” and “I don't want to just sit around all weekend" Unfriendly stuff. So guess how many responses I received? Zero.

Remember, this is your potential partner's first impression. Most of us are looking for friendly openness in a profile. And because it's intimidating to make that initial contact, write with the intent of attracting the type of match you want.

Presentation is key
The key to writing a good profile is communicating a sense of who you are and what you're looking for in a dating relationship. Tell the truth — not what you think people want to hear. Try asking someone to proofread your profile for you; feedback from someone you trust can be very helpful in creating an attractive description of yourself.

With these tips in mind, you'll create a profile — or read other profiles — in a way that helps you find what you're searching for: someone with whom you can share yourself. Post your free profile today!