Online dating has become the norm in this day and age, with huge numbers of people meeting their partners through various websites and apps. With so many options, it’s down to whatever works best for you.

But there are a few repercussions you may have to face through these platforms. Luckily we have some tips on how to handle these scenarios to avoid any awkwardness!

So, you and your date have great chemistry while exchanging messages, excitedly planning your meet-up and joking about common interests. But disappointment sets in when you meet in real life and realise there's zero spark between you; even to the point where you don't find them as attractive as you thought you would. This can be even trickier if your date is totally into it, while you have to sit smiling and nodding along as you constantly check the clock.

It's hard, but if this happens to you, next time you get talking to someone try not to get so attached and rest all your hopes on them, as you don't want a repeat of the same thing. Keep your flirtation to a minimum, as Huffington Post recommends, and don't engage in constant conversation, as one of the reasons it may not go well face-to-face is because you've run out of things to say.

Or perhaps you make a fool of yourself on the first date due to nerves; you really, really like them but accidently end up offending your date or drinking too many glasses of wine to ease the anxiety. While it's perfectly normal to get jittery, it probably doesn't give the best first impression when trying to win over your potential partner.

In this case, honesty is the best policy; simply drop them a message afterwards explaining what happened and offer to take them out for a second go. If there's a real connection they'll find your antics cute and amusing and accept your invite. If not, they're clearly not worth your time! But don't be afraid to try; what have you got to lose?

However, things could go amazingly well and after meeting up regularly you may be thinking of taking the relationship further. But there's one big alarm bell; their online dating profile is still active. How to approach this without seeming like a stalker?

As cliché as it sounds, this calls for a 'talk'. That's not to say it has to be serious and heart-felt; make it a relaxed conversation, brought on naturally. Even opening with the line, 'Hey, so this is going really well and I'm liking where this is heading. How do you feel?' is enough to get started. This could be the trigger for them to delete their profile. But if a couple of days pass and the account is still active, just make your feelings known. Gently does it!

Lastly, don't fear the question, 'How did you guys meet?' Resist the temptation to give false details, as they'll come back to you one day. And if you're happy - who cares?!

© Cover Media