Dating is hard. In a perfect world, your soulmate would emerge in some dramatic fashion and fall right into your arms. That probably won't happen. You need to take a proactive approach to meet your perfect someone. Online dating can be a great way to do this.
Here are seven strategies that work for men and women.

1. Pick the Right Site
There are tons of options out there regarding dating sites. Research each app carefully for negatives like hidden costs. Find statistics regarding the current demographics of the website (like the number of users and male-to-female ratio). Find a site that matches your relationship goals or caters to your niche interests. Look for good safety features, too. Remember: You can afford to be picky. Before you pick out that 5 year anniversary gift guide, be selective about the entire process. You'll have a better outcome.

2. Take the Right Photos
Photography is called an art for a reason. Taking a good profile photo can make or break your chances. Your photos should always be honest depictions of your appearance. Nothing's worse than being caught in a lie or exaggeration. You should have multiple photos, including a well-lit headshot and a full-body shot. Show yourself in action doing the things you enjoy. Above all, resist the temptation to airbrush or otherwise "enhance" your photos.

According to Dr. Sameer Chaudhry, MD, from the University of North Texas in Dallas, a big smile that makes your eyes crinkle and a slight head tilt are two positive characteristics of a photo. You won't get a second chance to make a first impression, so make a wise decision founded on evidence-based statistics.

3. Don't Focus Exclusively on "Your Type"
Most dating sites have fairly comprehensive search features. While this can be beneficial, it can also be far too limiting. When people meet in person, chemistry is vital to generating interest (or a lack thereof). Must a potential partner really fit your height requirements to the inch and weight expectations to the pound? Of course not. Going with your overall impression of someone is typically a better bet.

4. Have a Sense of Humor
Research repeatedly shows that a good sense of humor is attractive to men and women. Scientifically speaking, humor is a complex and nuanced way of communicating. Laughter also has health benefits, including an increase in dopamine and endorphins. Good humor puts people at ease, meaning it's a great conversation starter.

5. Communicate Your Core Values
Light humor can only take you so far, though. If you plan to be in a lasting relationship, having the same core values as your partner is paramount. Communicate these values clearly on your profile, including traits like religion, politics, and family values. Talking about the issues you both care about makes an excellent alternative to small talk and those tired old cut-and-paste opening messages.

6. Don't Tolerate Ghosting
"Ghosting" is the term for ending contact with someone without warning or consideration. Excuses for the activity vary, but some psychologists are starting to see it as abusive behavior. If someone ghosts you, let them go. They weren't too interested in the first place. The same goes for delayed messages. If someone's taking their time responding to you, you're probably not a priority. Take a deep breath and move on.

7. Recognize Red Flags
A willingness to ghost isn't the only red flag in the digital dating world! Scammers and other threats are out there. Never give anyone you meet online money. If someone declares their love early and often, be extremely skeptical. Profiles with only one image are another typical warning sign. Always trust your instincts. If something seems eerily "off" about someone, go with that gut impression. Prioritize your own safety and well-being at all times. Remember that it's always OK to take a step back and reevaluate.

Your next adventure is right around the corner. Making smart choices now will save you from headaches (and heartaches) later. Research your strategies wisely and choose dating options backed by psychology and old-fashioned common sense.