Online dating significantly increases with the onset of COVID-19, and as more users flocked to the platforms, popular dating app Match noticed some new trends by daters, prompting them to launch the #RealTalk profile feature. The new tool helps singles get to the big conversations faster, like politics, sex, and religion.
Rachel DeAlto, Chief Dating Expert at Match, stated: "All of a sudden, small talk just seems so insignificant. The world is facing real issues between the pandemic, social justice movements, and the election. Daters have recognized that this more significant and almost heavy energy is affecting every conversation. It doesn’t mean you can’t start with the weather or debating pour over versus drip coffee, but you won’t stay there long."
According to a survey by the dating app, 81% want to know more about a potential match’s stance on deeper topics before they can determine their potential; 87% are more likely to move things forward after talking about more substantial topics; and 61% would like support in moving from small talk to deeper conversations on a dating app. The new #RealTalk feature by Match is a direct result of these findings and was designed to help singles find real love faster.
Deep Dive Dating Prompts
Match Launched a New #RealTalk Feature to Help Online Daters Connect
Trend Themes
1. Increased Authenticity - The #RealTalk feature reflects the trend of online daters seeking deeper and more authentic connections by discussing significant topics upfront.
2. Conscious Compatibility - The survey highlights a trend where daters prioritize understanding potential matches' stances on important issues to determine compatibility, paving the way for innovative tools like #RealTalk.
3. Enhanced User Engagement - The demand for moving from small talk to deeper conversations on dating apps creates an opportunity for platforms to provide features that foster more engaged and meaningful interactions, such as Match's #RealTalk.
Industry Implications
1. Online Dating - The #RealTalk feature can disrupt the online dating industry by addressing the evolving needs of users who crave more authentic and substantial connections.
2. Dating App Development - The survey findings present an opportunity for dating app developers to create features that facilitate deeper conversations, improving user satisfaction and increasing app usage.
3. Social Networking - The trend of online daters seeking genuine connections can influence the social networking industry to develop more purposeful platforms that encourage meaningful conversations.