If you're single, dating isn't going to be easy right now, but it's definitely not impossible. Sure, life in lockdown poses a few problems, but nevertheless, we should try to keep our dating lives afloat – and yes, that means making video calls...
The idea of making or answering a video call makes my palms sweat a little. I'd much rather send a message and hide behind my screen. Why? Because I've got more time to think, my appearance requires zero effort, and most importantly, the dreaded awkward silence doesn't exist. But, messaging can only get you so far.
Despite my apprehension about speaking over one another, poor connection and having to dress my background as well as myself, it seems that now is the perfect time to get fully acquainted with virtual dating, in all its uncomfortable glory. But how do I make the transition from text to video?
Popular dating app Hinge have introduced a new feature called 'Date from Home_,'_ where after agreeing with your date, users will be able to use FaceTime, Zoom, Skype or Google Hangouts to set it up. And interestingly, CEO and Founder at Hinge, Justin McLeod believes this could be the future of dating.
'Video and phone calls are currently a safe way to date someone you’re interested in, and I believe digital dates, as a precursor to meeting in person, will be a trend that stays with us beyond the current climate.'
Much like myself, Hinge reported a third of all users felt least confident when turning conversations into actual face-to-face meetings. So we asked them to give us some pointers on how to play it cool.
'Turning conversations into dates can be challenging – knowing when you’re both ready. 'Date from Home' will help people move to the next step when the time is right, no guessing or second-guessing required,' says Tim MacGougan, Chief Product Officer at Hinge.
Hinge’s Best Date From Home Tips:
1. Get ready for the date as you would in real life. It puts you in the right mindset, and if you look the part, you'll feel the part.
2. Position your laptop or phone near lighting where your date can clearly see your face and in a setting you're comfortable in and can relax.
3. Have a meaningful conversation. If you’re not sure what to chat about, try asking each other Hinge prompts as icebreakers. Start the conversation with something genuine as you normally would.
4. Get creative with your activities. You can create a shared playlist ahead of the date, for background music. Or, there's virtual games, such as Heads Up or House Party.
5. Schedule your next date. If the date was a success, be intentional by finding another date and time you both want to chat again.
6. Help Hinge learn your type after your digital date. Fill out the ‘We Met’ in-app survey where they ask each person privately if a) they had a video or phone date with the person and b) if they’re the type of person they’d like to get to know better.
DISCOVER: How To Maintain Your Dating Life In A Lockdown
How To Maintain Your Dating Life In A Lockdown
1 of 7Virtual Speed Dating
I recently took part in a speed dating session, cleverly coined, Isolation Rotation. Using the power of Zoom, the session started with a group conference call and then pairs would be sent into five minute 'break-out' rooms. It's a simple, but effective concept, and one that's also being replicated by London speed dating company, Date In A Dash. Being in the comfort of your own home, with a glass of wine (or two,) really takes the edge off, more so than speed dating IRL.
2 of 7The Intro
The Intro is a dating app that's fairly new on the scene. It's popular amongst young professionals in London, and previously worked by arranging a date at a nearby bar or pub, when two members match. But, adapting to the governments recommendations on social distancing, the app now schedules a video date for its members instead.
3 of 7Tinder
If you're less into video chats, voice notes and phone calls, then stick to what you know – swiping. 'Right now distance is the hottest date,' we couldn't agree more Tinder. The app has reported that conversations are now 10-20% longer worldwide. And, with the apps new 'passport' feature, you can connect with anyone, anywhere in the world, available for free to all members.
4 of 7Hinge
We're all familiar with the dating app that's 'designed to be deleted,' but all that swiping is going to get tiring without going on a single date... Fear not! Hinge have announced the launch of its new 'Date from Home' feature, where users can easily share when they're ready for a digital date.
5 of 7Bumble
Bumble has launched, not one, but a bundle of in-app features, improving the way users connect and date while in lockdown... 1) The Virtual Dating profile badge – easy to spot who is up for a video call. 2) A nationwide distance filter – meet people from across the UK.3) Audio note recording & Direct message replies – Whatsapp watch out!
6 of 7Letter Writing
If you're already dating someone, but are bored with communicating virtually, then it might be a good idea to take it back to basics. Why not give good old fashioned letter writing a go? It doesn't have to be endless pages of romantic spiel, but it's a fun alternative to sending a text. Plus, a great way to get your daily exercise in – quick walk to the postbox anyone?
7 of 7Bubble Date
And, if all else fails, and you really can't bear to not meet or see this person, you can always invest in a giant bubble...