How has online dating technology helped the LGBT community?

If you identify as LGBTQ, you will undoubtedly have felt your socializing opportunities to be not nearly as widespread as those available to your ‘straight’ friends. In case you didn’t know, the good news is that technology has transformed the landscape. There are increasing numbers of websites and apps specifically geared towards LGBTQ people. LGBTQ singles are twice as likely to be tapping into digital dating like any other demographic. Let’s look further into why technology has been such a boost for this community.

Exclusive outlets

LGBTQ dating has always formed an intrinsic aspect of a matchmaking site. When newcomers are going through the application process, they’ll typically be asked to select their preferences from a drop-down menu – male seeks female, female seeks female – and so on. There are also many outlets exclusively for members of the LGBT community. If you’re unsure about which particular one would be best for you, there are review sites offering advice. But the key information is that there will be a suitable website or app, no matter what type of LGBTQ partnership you’re searching for. Perhaps you’re already in a lesbian relationship but are a couple looking for female friends to join in the fun. You’ll have a great chance of tracking down willing participants if you check out the talent on an appropriate platform.

Algorithms to find ideal matches

Never feel daunted at the prospect of joining a website that appears to be extremely popular. There are built-in programs that will provide all the assistance you need. These algorithms will take on board the type of person you’re looking for, based on the preferences you state during registration, then check out the entire database of existing members. A shortlist of the most appropriate individuals will be presented in seconds!

Convenient communication

Technology has made it so easy for site users to reach out to anyone they feel an affinity towards. There are discreet communication channels where you don’t even have to spend too much time thinking of dazzling one-liners or ice-breakers. All you have to do is employ some LGBTQ dating shorthand – send someone a ‘wink,’ or simply add a ‘like’ to their page. This would be the equivalent of strolling into a bar, spotting someone through the crowd, then flashing an enticing smile. If this sense of attraction is reciprocated, you can commence courtship!

A haven

Where technology has proved effective for the LGBTQ community is in the way it has created online meeting places. Dating sites serving this demographic are so much more than matchmaking platforms for singles. They are social hubs, where people from a variety of backgrounds, who might previously have felt excluded from mainstream society, can meet and mingle. This is especially advantageous for those still coming to terms with their sexuality, or gender identity. For those who are newly ‘out,’ there are blogs, forums, and chat rooms where they can ask questions, and receive advice and support from others who have been through the same traumatic situations.

Developing confidence

Online dating technology has been beneficial for those individuals who might have considered themselves to be awkward or hesitant. It would be only natural to feel a little introverted when walking into an LGBTQ-friendly bar, looking for other singles to flirt with. But in the online environment, you’ll find inhibitions dissolving. The relaxing atmosphere and welcoming aura will encourage you to open up when interacting with other site users. You’ll soon discover an inner flirt you never realized was lurking deep within!