Honestly, online dating is the only thing that has really worked for me in the last two years. I am too shy to make the first move in person, and I am terrible at flirting. I would consider myself a person with discriminating tastes. The men I have been contacted by span the entire quality spectrum. I had one relationship that lasted eight months that ended badly, but it helped to further refine who I was and the type of guy I wanted as my complement. Now I find myself with a fantastic guy that I can't stop thinking about.

You can determine physical and intellectual chemistry only in person. Sure, a few filtering e-mails may be necessary--but if most of the basics check out, go right ahead with a phone call and meet in person as soon as possible. Otherwise one or both parties will be lost in internet land.

In conclusion, online dating totally works! As with making any acquaintance, just make sure to be safe about first meetings/contacts/etc.