In the world of online dating, there are two distinct categories of people: those who prefer to message extensively before meeting in person, and those who, like Nicola Prentis, prefer to meet face-to-face early on. Nicola, after a two-year break from dating apps, found herself frustrated with the endless text conversations that often led nowhere. She wanted a more efficient way to find potential matches who were willing to meet in person and see if there was a real connection.
Nicola’s solution was to create a poll on Hinge, a popular dating app, to help her filter out the “messagers” and find the “meeters.” The poll simply asks potential matches if they are interested in meeting today, tomorrow, or if they prefer to engage in prolonged messaging. This straightforward approach has proven to be effective in identifying men who are spontaneous, action-takers, and have the time to go on dates.
For Nicola, online dating is not a replacement for real-life dating but rather a shortcut to meeting new people. As a busy entrepreneur who works from home, she values efficiency and directness in her interactions. The poll on Hinge allows her to cut to the chase and make arrangements for a date without wasting time on endless small talk.
While some may view Nicola’s poll as a signal that she is only looking for casual hookups, she has found that it actually helps repel the wrong types of men. By clearly stating her preference for meeting in person, she filters out those who are not serious about dating or who may have ulterior motives.
One unintended benefit of Nicola’s approach is that it makes her less of a target for scammers and married men, who often make excuses for not meeting in real life. By focusing on meeting face-to-face early on, Nicola has been able to go on dates with men who share her preference for action over endless messaging.
Overall, Nicola’s experience with using a poll on Hinge highlights the importance of setting clear intentions and preferences in online dating. By being upfront about her desire to meet in person, she has been able to connect with like-minded individuals who prioritize real-life interactions. This approach has not only saved her time but has also led to meaningful connections with men who share her values and priorities.
