There are a variety of reasons for joining an internet dating service.  Most people do so looking for someone special.  They're ready for commitment and are ready to share their life.

It's a mistake to think that everyone on your favorite internet dating site is looking for the same thing that you are.  Just because you're ready for a serious commitment doesn't mean that everyone is.  There are things to consider when browsing profiles to ensure you communicate only with those who share the same goals.

Look at their relationship status.  If that handsome guy or good looking lady is married, he or she is not looking to settle down with anyone; they're there for a fling.  Someone who lists their status as separated is too new to the dating scene to get serious.  In the case of a divorce, it's important to know how long he or she has been divorced.  If the ink is still wet on the divorce papers commitment may be the furthest thing from their mind

No one likes to waste time.  When searching for someone online to share your life, pay attention to the type of relationship your potential matches are looking for.  Someone interested only in "intimate encounters" is simply being up front about the fact they're looking for sex; and nothing more.

Read a potential match's profile and look for the word casual.  You want serious, you want commitment.  Casual isn't either of these, so keep searching.

Profile photos will also give you a clue as to the person's intentions.  When we're serious about finding that special someone, we post the best, most flattering photos of ourselves.  If we're only looking to have a good time, nothing too serious, we'll post party photos or body shots of our muscles.

Pay attention to who he or she talks about in their profile.  If immediate family and close friends are an important part of his or her life then chances are good that they're responsible and looking to commit.  If all you read is talk about good time friends, then settling down is the furthest thing from their mind.

What kind of a person is your potential match looking for?  Are personal character and traits mentioned?  People who mention deal breakers like children, drugs, smoking and other personal qualities have given thought to who they want to spend their life with.  If the only mention is that their ideal date must have large breasts, or be good looking, they're really not serious about finding true love.

This article was developed by the writers of the Datepad.com free internet dating company where you can read hundreds of helpful dating articles.