Years ago someone had set up a Zoosk account on my behalf. I suddenly started getting emails and couldn't figure out who these guys were and why they were emailing me. Never did figure out who did it!
Zoosk is on the top 10 Online Dating Sites list, so off I went to check it out. I set-up a profile without any pictures. It doesn't cost anything to create a profile, but if you want to read and send messages you have to subscribe. The site allows you to send 4 emails at no cost, but if you don't subscribe you can't read their responses.
It was easy enough to set-up the profile. Zoosk asks the basis questions like location, age, sex and you can add information on your perfect match and ideal date. You'll then get a series of Smartpick questions. These touch on your preferences like smoking, height, ethnicity and religion. I like the look of the site and it's easy to navigate which gives it a thumbs up from me! Lol Definitely very basic and to the point.
The username I chose was approved and then when you add your story it gets approved before it is added to your profile. You can add interests like music, movies, sports and TV shows.
One thing that's very different on this site is that it has a verification area. By linking your Facebook or Twitter account, it claims you improve your reputation on Zoosk which results in more messages and connections. This can also be done through photo verification or your phone number. Personally I don't want information from my social media accounts linked to an online dating profile, nor do I want anyone to have access to my phone number until I'm ready to share it. The site claims they will never tweet or post on Facebook on your behalf, so not sure why anyone would go this route
it seems unnecessary to me.
The profile was all set-up and my content was approved. Another online dating site that inundates you with emails. Oh my goodness! Zoosk is somewhat inconsistent in that some times I get daily matches, other times it's every second or third day and weekly. I can't figure out a system or way of altering my email preferences under settings. Basically for emails you have the option to enable or disable. They also send you a notification when another member sends you an email. Even if you haven't subscribed, you can look at the member's profile just not read the email.
I haven't quite figured out all the functionality, but much of it only become accessible when you subscribe. Costs to join are $12.49 per month for 6 months or $19.98 per month for 3 months.
One feature that I wish it had was the ability to set distance limits. I can't find that anywhere and many of the matches I've received fall well outside of my acceptable limit. Under the Smartpick questions for height, I specifically said I wouldn't date men shorter than me yet many of the emails I received were from men that didn't meet my preference.
Paying to find love goes against my principles so I'll have to pass on Zoosk as well. If you're big on social media and using your smartphone, Zoosk could work for you. Check out their mobile app.
Good luck!
Dateless in Ottawa
