Would it surprise you to learn that there are about 100 million singles in the U.S.? Considering this, why can it be so hard to land a date, let alone a life partner? Sadly, finding your soul mate is hardly an easy task. So today, countless men and women are turning to the internet to find their one and only. In fact, it is estimated that close to 34 million people will log on to an online dating site this year.

The most attractive element about online dating is, without doubt, the anonymity. Clearly, it is easier to promote yourself online than in person because there is no need to feel embarrassed or shy if one is shrouded by a computer screen. In addition, if someone does not enjoy reading a profile, they simply move on with a click of the mouse and no one is the wiser. It is that simple.

Of course, anonymity comes with a price, albeit a manageable one. The best internet dating sites are hyper secure and are serious about their members' safety. For example, your site should explain your screening process which may involve checking for felony convictions and whether someone is already married. The penalties for violating these rules should be posted and your company should never hesitate to follow through with the punishments. You can even offer a list of 'warning signs' so your members can spot a potential threat.

But the main attractions to a dating website are the detailed profiles and the interactive tools. The best sites include multiple color photos, dating tips and success stories, emails and instant messaging, links to current articles about relationships and more.

Will your members be matched according to a certain attributes (like www.eharmony.com or www.match.com) or will they simply scroll through the listings until someone catches their eye? The possibilities are really quite endless.

How can you be sure that singles will be attracted to your website? Well, if you have all the hot elements and an easy-to-use, appealing layout, they will come. Finding friendship and love is an inherent part of our lives; we simply cannot live without it. Therefore, we will do all we can to make connections and see that they stick. What's more, with so many folks living harried, over-scheduled lives, there is not much time for old fashioned dating that can take hours away from your evenings. Logging on to a fun, safe, and convenient site makes so much more sense.

A site that has the following elements is bound to succeed:

- detailed profiles that can be updated at any time
- color photos
- a search feature that highlights specific criteria
- ways to keep track of all contacts
- online journal to record thoughts and experiences
- success stories and tips from 'Dating Experts'

There is no question that internet dating is the way of the future; the trend shows no sign of slowing down (www.eharmony.com boasts over 10,000 new users each day!). So whether you are looking to help individuals find friendship or something deeper, becoming part of the virtual love community is the way to go.