It might seem like a quirky idea destined to fail, but the truth of the matter is online dating can work. If the people involved are honest and the stars align just right, online dating services can be a real blessing for those on the hunt for Mr. or Mrs. Right. The key to using the services is to apply come common sense and understand that a soul mate might not be found on the first or even 10th date. Online dating can be a fun undertaking and one that results in a serious relationship, but its an art just like meeting people in other locations.

For those looking at online dating as a sure-fire way to meet "the one," put away the illusions. While it's more than possible to find just the right match online, getting lucky in love will still take some work. There's no easy way to ensure a solid match, but there are things people who want to find a date via one of many online services, can do to increase their chances for success.

When using an online dating service, there are some basic rules of the road to help make the experience pleasant:

* Be honest about yourself to potential dates. This one is a no-brainer. If you truly intend to find a lasting match, honesty must be a strict policy. While you can't ensure your dates will extend the same courtesy about their backgrounds, appearance and so on, if you're above board, you can be free to relax and enjoy potential dates knowing there's nothing to hide or cover up.

* Use recent photos. There's nothing worse than meeting a potential date and finding out that "hot" picture they sent was from two decades and 50 pounds ago. As it is about background information, be honest about appearance, too. Face it, half the battle in dating is chemistry. If you portray yourself incorrectly, you might just be wasting your time on potential dates.

* Meet in a public place. On the first date with an online match or even the third, do meet in a public place to ensure security. While most people who use online services are decent human beings in search of true love, there are some real jerks out there - just like in the face-to-face dating scene. Be smart and protect yourself.

* Don't overbook a first date. Online dating goes beyond blind dates since you have a chance to talk and get to know each other online first, but that doesn't mean the face-to-face meeting won't be awkward. There's nothing worse than planning an all-day date and finding out your chemistry or compatibility are nil. Take it easy on the first date and leave the marathon action for the second or third encounter.

* Background checks. It doesn't hurt to do these if you feel it necessary.

Online dating can be a fun and rewarding experience. It's one of those situations where you get what you put into it a lot of the times. The more you focus on being honest while correctly representing yourself, screen potential dates and take the time to get to know them before you meet, the more likely you'll find that match you've been longing for. Just remember, finding "the one" isn't always easy and look at dating as an adventure and you should be fine.