It’s no secret that Facebook is one of the most popular social media platforms with an active user base. In fact, according to Statista, as of January 2018 there are over 2 billion users worldwide accessing the platform on a monthly basis.
Given the popularity and accessibility of Facebook, it makes sense that many users would consider using it for dating purposes.
However, the idea of using Facebook for dating seems a little bit weird at first glance. After all, when we think about dating someone new – especially in a digital capacity- we typically think about apps like Tinder or Bumble where you can see potential matches based on location or common interests.
When you begin to dig deeper into this subject and read some in-depth articles, you’ll discover that yes — there is in fact a form of “Facebook Dating” available right now!
Is Facebook Dating a Thing?
I’m sure you saw this coming. Yes — there is in fact a form of “Facebook Dating” available right now! There are even articles on popular publications like Mashable, Bustle, and Huffington Post that talk about how the idea of Facebook Dating isn’t as new or out-of-the-ordinary as it may seem at first glance.
The good news is that today we have social media to help us connect with potential matches. And even though the idea seems a little weird at first glance, when you think about it, using Facebook for dating doesn’t seem so strange anymore.
With Facebook, you can target your audience more precisely than traditional methods like apps like Tinder or Bumble where you can see potential matches based on location or common interests.
You can also find people who are interested in similar activities or who share similar interests as you on social media platforms. You might be able to find someone who has been looking for their next date by posting an event online and then taking the conversation offline from there.
Facebook Dating: What it is and how it works
If you’ve been following the news, you may have heard a few people mention Facebook Dating in passing. Generally, it’s all about a new feature that Facebook has introduced which allows users to create more personalized profiles and bring their ‘dating game’ to a mainstream audience.
Essentially, with this new feature, Facebook has taken some of the most popular features on dating apps like Tinder (profile customization) and Bumble (swiping left or right) and incorporated them into the existing platform.
How to use Facebook Dating
To use Facebook Dating, you will first need to download the Facebook Dating App. Once that is done, you can choose which type of person you would like to date.
For example, if you are only looking for a platonic friendship and not a romantic partner, then it would be wise to limit your options within the app. The next step is completing your profile. On this page, there are some questions that ask about your preferences.
These include things such as relationship expectations, preferred gender and age range of potential matches, and other basic information related to what you’re seeking in a potential match.
Then, when you’re ready for people to find your profile and contact you for dating purposes, all that’s left is clicking “Find Friends” or “Nearby Friends” on the app menu and allow matching with people who are interested in the same things as you! The app will also let users know when someone has viewed their profile so they can strike up a conversation if they feel inclined.
It’s important to note that while many sites advertise themselves as “Facebook Dating Sites” – this actually isn’t true at all!
When most people think of dating sites they think of sites like Match or OkCupid where users have to create an account before being able to see other profiles and communicate with them through messages or by swiping on photos. These sites help people meet online but
Pros of using Facebook for dating
There are a number of reasons why Facebook dating might be a good idea. The first, and arguably the most important, is that you won’t have to rely on other people to do your searching for you. You can create your own customized list of potential matches and see if anyone is interested in meeting up with you based on your interests or stated preferences.
If you want someone who is taller than 6 feet, has brown hair and green eyes, loves dogs and enjoys sports, you can set those parameters so that any potential matches will meet those requirements.
Second, it’s free. You don’t have to pay for anything because it’s all done via Facebook Messenger. Third, there are no apps to download or sign-up required outside of Facebook itself meaning it’s easy to use and convenient.
Cons of Using Facebook for Dating
So, we’ve established that Facebook is a great way to find potential matches. But don’t forget the cons of using Facebook for dating. There’s the obvious concern of showing your current partner your Facebook profile, and then having them see your activity on the site. Maybe you don’t want your partner seeing you chatting with other potential partners – or worse yet – liking their pictures.
Now, there are ways to prevent this from happening by changing your privacy settings and hiding certain pieces of information from those visiting your profile. Sure, it may be a little clunky, but it’s possible to manage this issue if you know how.
Another con of using Facebook for dating is that there are many different kinds of people on Facebook and not all of them are looking for romantic relationships. For example, some people just want to make friends while others are only interested in meeting up with no strings attached.
This can lead to confusion when two individuals who were under the impression they were chatting back and forth as friends suddenly realize they have romantic feelings for one another.
It’s important to remember that when it comes to dating apps like Tinder or Bumble, you can determine whether someone wants friendship only or something more serious before you decide whether or not you want to chat with them further or even meet up in person. You’ll never know if someone is looking for friendship only unless you ask them first. With these types of apps, all potential matches are
Final Words: Is Facebook Dating Worth It?
You might be thinking, “is Facebook dating worth it?”. Well, that depends on what you want to get out of the experience. If you want a quick way to meet new people, then yes — Facebook Dating is worth it.
It can give you more options for meeting people than other dating apps and can be more effective for those who have trouble making time for dating outside of their day-to-day lives. However, if you are looking for romance and love, then this may not be the best option for you.
In fact, there are a particular set of problems that come with using Facebook as opposed to a traditional dating app like Tinder or Bumble. Some users have found themselves in dangerous situations after meeting someone on Facebook.
One woman told The Guardian she was sexually assaulted by someone she met on Facebook while one man was murdered by an ex-girlfriend he met via the same platform! Those are just two examples of how use of Facebook as a means of online dating can put an end to your romantic endeavors rather quickly!
Facebook Dating Features
The idea of Facebook Dating is not a new one. In fact, there are several features that are currently available on the Facebook platform that may be used for dating purposes. For example, one of the most popular features is the “Friend Finder” which allows you to find friends and family members who also use Facebook.
This can be a valuable feature for those who are trying to date someone in their area or with similar interests. In addition, there is also an option for users to create groups and events which could aid in the process of finding a potential match.
Furthermore, there are third-party applications like Tinder available which allow you to find people who want to date using their profile pictures.
Things to Know Before Using Facebook for Dating
There are several things to know before you decide to use Facebook for dating. The following should be considered:
- Certain information on your profile will be shared with potential matches
- You can only see one person’s profile picture at a time
- Facebook Dating is currently available in limited countries
Facebook Dating: A Comprehensive Guide
While there may not be as many features and options as Tinder, Bumble, or other popular dating apps, Facebook has a form of dating available. When you have the option to choose which type of person you’re looking for- whether it be someone with the same interests, someone in the same area, or even just someone who’s friends with people you know- it can be an excellent way to meet a potential date.
Facebook Dating is also great for people who are too shy to message people first on other social media platforms like Instagram or Twitter. They might feel more comfortable initiating contact when they know what the other person’s relationship status is. It’s also a good way to stay connected with old friends without being too forward.
Is Facebook Dating Safe?
The safety and security of your personal information is always top-of-mind when considering whether you should use a dating app. And given that Facebook is one of the most popular social media platforms, it’s natural to wonder if Facebook Dating would be safe.
However, there are a few options available to help ensure that your Facebook account remains secure while you’re on the app.
For example, you can only see someone who has liked your profile after both parties have mutually liked each other’s profiles. This means that no one can see your profile unless they have already shown interest in you first.
Additionally, on its homepage, Facebook lists tips related to privacy and security which could be helpful in any situation: https://www.facebook.com/help/topic=124054637609626
