14 methods to find a profitable segment in the dating market
Many successful business projects in the dating industry begin with an idea that’s impossible to ignore. Whether it’s open source dating software with an innovative matching algorithm, a unique approach to an existing format, or a trending niche with significant market potential—it’s typically the product idea that becomes the first step toward entrepreneurship.
But what if the desire to become an entrepreneur comes before the great idea itself? How do you find your niche in the online dating market from scratch? The process might seem overwhelming, especially when it feels like all possible formats already exist. However, new dating brands appear daily, proving there’s still room for fresh ideas in the market.
By conducting market research, tracking trends, and assessing user demand, you can find a profitable niche and build your brand. Below, you’ll learn how to discover your product and the audience interested in it.
What is Market Research?
Market research is the process of gathering information and data about a product and the current state of the market. It involves analyzing:
– Competing dating software brands
– Their users
– The dating industry as a whole
Research also involves analyzing the collected information to answer specific product-related questions:
– What is the market demand?
– Is the idea viable?
– Which marketing channels are most effective?
Market research is helpful not only for new projects in search of their first product but also for growing brands. It helps validate entry into new niches or categories with a strategic approach that helps avoid mistakes and stay ahead of competitors.
According to research, the global online dating market is valued at $4 billion, while the social networking space reaches $100 billion. Additionally, more than 1,000 new dating services are launched every year, confirming the opportunities for entering this market.
Method 1: Solve user problems
Many successful dating services solve specific user problems. Track the difficulties people face on existing dating sites. Social networks and reviews are great sources for such insights.
What to do:
• Study user reviews on existing platforms
- What to Do: Read through reviews on current dating platforms like those using open source dating software or dating software for sale.
- Why: Reviews help identify common issues that users face, revealing pain points in the market. This way, you can understand what users like or dislike and find opportunities to make improvements or differentiate your own service.
- How: Visit app stores (e.g., Google Play or Apple App Store) and review websites. Focus on the comments with high engagement, which often indicate the most widespread issues. Take notes on common complaints, such as users asking for better privacy features or improved matching algorithms.
• Monitor frequent complaints on social media and in reviews
- What to Do: Keep an eye on social media channels for common complaints about dating apps, especially platforms using white label dating app solutions or dating site software.
- Why: Social media provides an open space where users often freely express their frustrations. This is an ideal way to keep your ear to the ground regarding issues that dating services fail to address.
- How: Search for mentions of popular dating apps on platforms like Twitter, Reddit, or Instagram. Tools like social listening software can help you track discussions and complaints over time. Pay special attention to topics like “fake profiles,” an issue frequently mentioned on dating websites for sale, and see if there are ways to tackle this problem effectively in your product.
• Analyze what problems remain unsolved
- What to Do: Identify persistent problems that have not been adequately addressed by existing dating site templates or best dating script options.
- Why: Unsolved issues present opportunities for you to create a unique solution. If a large number of users are dissatisfied with a particular feature that isn’t available on open source dating site or dating script open source options, it could be your chance to create a product that stands out.
- How: Compile the issues you identified from user reviews and social media. Categorize these complaints and analyze which of them are not being addressed effectively. You might find that some platforms do not support certain key features, such as advanced matchmaking software or customizable dating templates—these gaps represent an opportunity to fulfill user needs better.
Image pinterest.com/pin/1080793610577402414
For example, you can:
• Create a safer platform with thorough user verification
• Improve matchmaking algorithms
• Make a more user-friendly interface
• Add new communication methods
Facts and examples:
1. According to research, 72% of dating app users report security issues. In 2023, the S’More app launched mandatory AI-powered video verification, leading to a 65% decrease in fake profiles and a 43% increase in paying users.
2. Bumble solved the problem of intrusive messages by allowing only women to initiate conversations. This created a more comfortable environment and attracted a female audience.
2. Track trends in advance
Identifying a trend before it goes mainstream presents a huge business opportunity. Here are some current trends in the dating industry for 2024-2030:
• AI in matchmaking and communication
• Virtual and augmented reality for dates
• Increased focus on mental health
• Hybrid online-offline meeting formats
• Emphasis on security and verification
What to do:
• Use Google Trends to analyze search queries. Here, you can see the popularity of trends over time.
- What to Do: Use Google Trends to see how often certain dating-related keywords like create dating site or how to create a dating app are being searched.
- Why: Google Trends lets you see whether interest in a particular idea is growing or declining over time. If you notice increasing interest, it might be a great opportunity to jump in.
- How: Search for related keywords like dating app development services and compare their search volume to understand what’s on the rise.
• Follow dating startups
- What to Do: Keep an eye on emerging startups in the dating industry, particularly those focusing on open source dating app development or how to start a matchmaking business.
- Why: By following startups, you can spot new trends early and see what kind of innovative solutions are being created.
- How: Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow startups on social media, or use platforms like Crunchbase to see what new companies are working on.
• Monitor technology news
- What to Do: Stay updated on new technology that can be applied to dating platforms, like online dating app development or advancements in matchmaking software.
- Why: Technology evolves rapidly, and keeping up with it can provide you with tools that make your dating platform stand out from the competition.
- How: Use tech news websites or follow relevant influencers on social media who discuss innovations in dating app source code or dating portal development services.
• Study changes in target audience behavior
- What to Do: Watch for any changes in how users are interacting with dating apps—are they shifting from one type of app to another, like from dating scripts to white label dating?
- Why: Understanding these shifts helps you adjust your approach and create features that resonate with your audience.
- How: Conduct surveys, read case studies, and use analytics tools to understand how people are interacting with current dating solutions.
Facts and examples: In 2024, 32% of dating app users utilize AI to enhance their dating experience. By 2030, this figure is projected to reach 78%. The Thursday service pioneered “Thursdays-only dating,” creating artificial scarcity and FOMO, leading to a 3-fold increase in active users.
3. Focus on broad or niche audiences
People passionate about a specific hobby or lifestyle are often willing to pay more for a product that precisely meets their needs.
What to do:
• Identify a specific group with unique needs
- What to Do: Find a group of people who have specific needs or preferences that aren’t being met by general dating platforms.
- Why: When you target a specific group, you can focus on solving their particular issues and create a community where they feel understood.
- How: Research different demographics or lifestyles, such as people who prefer niche interests like gaming, specific hobbies, or values. Using tools like online dating software or even open source dating platform could help you identify and address the unique needs of your audience effectively.
• Study their pain points and desires
- What to Do: Understand the problems that people in your chosen group face and what they want from a dating experience.
- Why: Knowing what users find frustrating or wish existed helps you design features that truly resonate with them.
- How: Look through user reviews, social media, and forums. Use white label dating app to adjust solutions to their needs. For instance, use dating app templates or dating php script to customize your platform and solve their specific issues.
• Create a unique value proposition
- What to Do: Offer something that other dating platforms don’t, tailored specifically for your niche audience.
- Why: A unique value proposition will differentiate your app from competitors, helping you attract users who are looking for exactly what you offer.
- How: This could involve using matchmaking software or white label dating site solutions to create special features or services that meet their desires. Highlighting that your platform uses best dating software could help create trust with users looking for an optimal experience.
• Become an expert in the chosen niche
- What to Do: Fully understand your audience’s culture, language, and values so that you can create an app that speaks directly to them.
- Why: People are more likely to trust a platform that understands their specific needs and values.
- How: Engage with your audience via community groups, social media, and by actively listening to their feedback. Consider creating a dating website script or leveraging online dating app development services to further customize your platform to meet these niche needs.
Image: pinterest.com/pin/281543716873794
Facts and examples: A DateMyAge study showed that 65% of users over 45 would travel to another country for a first date. 46% are ready to move abroad for a new partner. This opens opportunities for niche international dating services.
4. Find an underserved audience
According to research, 43% of dating service users don’t find a suitable platform. This points to huge potential for new niche solutions.
Examples of underserved audiences (due to small market size):
• LGBTQ+ community in conservative regions
• People with special needs
• Professional groups with specific schedules
• Representatives of rare subcultures
What to do:
• Look for demographic groups ignored by major players
• Analyze their specific needs
• Create a product tailored to their characteristics
• Use non-standard promotion channels
Facts and examples: According to eHarmony, by 2050, 78% of people over 65 will use online dating. Yet currently, only 12% of services target this audience.
5. Follow your interests
Creating a dating service in a niche close to you provides advantages:
• You better understand the audience’s needs
• You have expertise in the topic
• You’re more motivated to develop the project
• It’s easier for you to find first users
Image: courtesy Match
What to do:
– Choose a niche you know well
- What to Do: Start by selecting a specific type of dating community that you already understand well. For example, if you have experience with niche dating websites like a site for book lovers or outdoor enthusiasts, start there.
- Why: It’s easier to create something valuable when you already understand the needs and interests of that group.
- How: Consider communities or groups you are already part of—this could be based on hobbies, interests, or even professions.
– Use your experience to create unique features
- What to Do: Use what you know to build something new and interesting that isn’t already available on other dating platforms.
- Why: Users are more likely to switch to your service if it offers unique features that solve their problems in ways other platforms can’t.
- How: For instance, if you’re creating an open source dating app, add specific features like matchmaker software or exclusive filters that align with your niche.
– Attract first users from your community
- What to Do: Bring in your initial users from communities you’re already part of.
- Why: These early users are crucial for giving feedback and helping your app gain momentum.
- How: Invite people you know who might benefit from the dating services software or other specialized features you offer. You could even offer them an early access deal.
– Create content based on your expertise
- What to Do: Develop content that speaks to the needs of your target audience, based on your experience.
- Why: Creating valuable content helps attract users to your platform and shows them you understand their needs.
- How: If you’re building a dating site script or a white label dating app, create blog posts or guides that help users navigate the world of online dating specifically for your niche. This might include advice, success stories, or tips on using your platform effectively.
Facts and examples:
The founders developed BLK and Chispa (for African Americans and Latino Americans) based on personal experience, reaching 1 million downloads in less than a year. 84% of dating app users seek long-term relationships, so the founders’ authenticity and expertise are especially important.
6. Leverage professional experience
Your work experience can suggest a promising niche:
• An HR specialist can create a platform for professional dating
• A psychologist – a service for mindful dating with therapy elements
• A fitness trainer – an app for athletic couples
• A language teacher – a platform for language exchange and dating
What to do:
– Apply knowledge from your profession to a dating service
- What to Do: Take what you know best from your professional field and apply it to a dating service. If you have experience in project management, you could design features that help users schedule their dating activities. If you’re a marketer, you could think about innovative ways to promote dating profiles.
- Why: Using your professional background lets you create a unique value proposition. You know the pain points of your field better than anyone else, and that expertise can give you an edge.
- How: For example, if you’re familiar with agency dating software, consider using that knowledge to design matchmaking features that agencies can utilize to pair clients more effectively. Or if you know about dating website software, use that to improve user experience and differentiate from competitors.
– Create unique matchmaking algorithms
- What to Do: Develop a matchmaking algorithm that differs from traditional approaches. Perhaps you use personality types, detailed interests, or behavioral data.
- Why: Most users are already familiar with simple swiping mechanics, which is why creating a more personalized experience could be a major draw for them.
- How: Tools like matchmaking software or online dating script can help you build an algorithm that caters to a specific user base. For instance, you could create a system that uses deep data analytics, focusing on more precise compatibility rather than random swipes.
– Develop professional search filters
- What to Do: Create highly customizable filters that allow users to narrow down exactly what they’re looking for. This can be in terms of hobbies, lifestyle, or even dietary habits.
- Why: Many dating platforms lack the granularity users need to find a perfect match, which can lead to a frustrating experience.
- How: You could use dating templates or dating cms that allow for more robust search features. Users might want to filter their matches based on more specific criteria—like someone who loves outdoor activities or pets—making these filters a big selling point.
– Implement industry safety standards
- What to Do: Adopt and implement safety standards that ensure all user data is handled securely. This also means putting in place anti-fraud measures.
- Why: Safety is a big concern in online dating, and ensuring your platform is safe could make it more appealing to users.
- How: You could leverage white label dating app features or dating service software that are equipped with built-in security measures like data encryption and fraud detection.
Facts and examples:
The League, created by a former LinkedIn product manager, uses professional data for matchmaking and has a 30% premium conversion rate – three times the market average. The service verifies profiles via LinkedIn, reducing fakes by 89%.
7. Analyze search queries
Examples:
Search Query Monthly Search Volume Competition Trend Dating app for professionals 201,000 Medium Asian dating 201,000 High → Christian dating 27,100 Medium Senior dating sites 14,800 Low Lesbian dating app 49,500 Medium Dating app for gamers 9,900 Low Muslim dating 9,900 Medium → Dating apps for introverts 5,400 Low Sober dating app 4,400 Low Dating app for digital nomads 2,900 Low
Trends and insights:
• Growing demand for niche apps
• High interest in professional dating
• Stable demand in religious niches
• Potential in the senior segment
• New niches for specific lifestyles
What to do:
– Use keyword analysis tools
- What to Do: Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or SEMrush to research keywords.
- Why: Keyword analysis tools help you understand what people are searching for when it comes to dating software and services. This way, you can identify what keywords are popular among users.
- How: Look for terms like “open source dating software,” “dating site script,” or “how to create a dating website” to see how often these keywords are searched and assess the competition level. This will give you an idea of what users are interested in.
– Look for queries with high demand and low competition
- What to Do: Focus on finding keywords that many people are searching for but don’t have too many websites or businesses trying to rank for them.
- Why: High demand but low competition keywords like “dating site builder” or “best php dating script” are potential opportunities for building a niche dating service that stands out.
- How: Use keyword analysis tools to filter keywords by volume and competition, helping you find “dating service software” or “build your own dating website” keywords that are easier to rank for.
– Track seasonal trends
- What to Do: Keep an eye on how keyword demand changes throughout the year.
- Why: Some keywords like “speed dating software” or “how to start a matchmaking business” may be more popular at certain times of the year (e.g., around Valentine’s Day). Tracking these trends helps you plan promotions and marketing activities.
- How: Use tools like Google Trends to see when interest in keywords like “white label dating app” peaks, so you can focus your marketing efforts accordingly.
– Study related queries
- What to Do: Look at queries related to your main keywords to discover new angles or opportunities.
- Why: Related keywords like “matchmaking software,” “dating website templates,” or “build dating app” can help you better understand user interests and even give you new ideas for features to include in your product.
- How: Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ahrefs to look at related queries and see what else people are searching for in the realm of “dating script open source” or “online dating template.
Facts and examples:
According to keyword research, queries for “dating app +[profession]” grew by 201% in 2023. “Asian dating” generates 201,000 searches per month with medium competition, while “Transgender dating” has 14,800 with low competition, indicating potential niches.
8. Utilize social networks
Social networks are great for:
• Testing ideas
• Studying audience behavior
• Gathering feedback
• Finding first users
What to do:
– Analyze popular dating hashtags
- What to Do: Check out popular hashtags related to dating, such as #datingtips, #onlinedating, or #singles. You can also look at hashtags used by your competitors.
- Why: Analyzing trending hashtags helps you understand what people are currently interested in and what conversations are gaining attention in the dating space.
- How: Search for hashtags across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter. You can also use social listening tools to track hashtags over time.
– Study comments under competitors’ posts
- What to Do: Read through the comments section under posts from competitors or other dating services.
- Why: Comments are a great way to find out what people like, dislike, or wish was different about current dating software and dating platforms.
- How: Look for popular posts from major dating site software brands or open source dating platforms and take notes on recurring themes in the comments. Pay particular attention to user complaints and feature requests.
– Conduct polls in thematic groups
- What to Do: Create polls in dating-related groups or forums to ask users about their preferences and pain points.
- Why: Polls are an excellent tool to collect direct feedback from your target audience, which can help you tailor your white label dating app or dating service software to their needs.
- How: Use platforms like Facebook Groups, Reddit, or other communities where people discuss dating topics. You can ask questions like “What features would you like to see in a new dating app?” or “What frustrates you most about current dating sites?
– Test ideas through targeted ads
- What to Do: Run targeted ads on social media platforms to gauge interest in a new dating app feature or service.
- Why: Testing ideas through targeted ads allows you to get early validation for your concept, saving time and resources before full development.
- How: Create simple ads showcasing an idea, like a new feature in online dating software or a matchmaking software service, and see how people respond. Ads can be run on platforms like Facebook or Instagram, targeting specific demographics to see if there’s interest in features like speed dating software or a matchmaking website template.
Image: pinterest.com/pin/16184879906501099/
Facts and examples:
65% of online daters prefer video dates for testing compatibility. This trend was identified through social media analysis before the pandemic and successfully used by Hinge to launch video features.
9. Study software marketplaces
What to do:
– Analyze top apps on App Store/Google Play
- What to Do: Look at the most popular dating apps on App Store or Google Play.
- Why: Understanding what features are included in successful dating software can help you find areas for improvement or opportunities that are not being fully tapped by existing platforms.
- How: Search for the top-rated open source dating app, white label dating app, or other popular services. Make a list of features and think about how you can make them even better.
– Study features of popular services
- What to Do: Examine the key features of top dating services software.
- Why: Studying the features of existing services will help you identify what users appreciate most about the platforms they use and where there’s room for innovation.
- How: Explore platforms like open source dating software or dating site software. Note down the features like matchmaking algorithms, user engagement elements, and unique functionalities.
– Track competitors’ updates
- What to Do: Stay updated on what competitors are adding to their platforms.
- Why: Keeping track of new features launched by dating app development company competitors helps you stay ahead or adapt to market demands.
- How: Follow competitors’ social media pages, blogs, and use tools like social listening to catch updates. Track what popular dating script or best dating site software services are incorporating to see if you can offer something better.
– Read user reviews
- What to Do: Go through reviews left by users on popular dating platforms.
- Why: Reviews provide insight into what users like or dislike, and frequent complaints or requests can reveal unmet needs.
- How: Visit app stores and read reviews of services like dating website script or best dating script. Note down common issues like dating app fake profiles or user concerns about privacy and experience, which can guide the improvement of your own dating website.
Facts and examples:
In 2023, dating apps rank 3rd in revenue among all app categories. Meanwhile, 25% of users delete apps out of boredom, creating an opportunity for innovation.
10. Focus on high margins
Dating services have potentially high profitability due to:
• Low operating costs
• Multiple monetization models
• High user lifetime value
What to do:
– Develop a flexible subscription system
- What to Do: Set up a subscription system that offers multiple options, like different subscription levels or discounts.
- Why: Not all users have the same budget or interest level. Offering a flexible subscription system allows you to reach more users by meeting them where they are financially and in terms of commitment. It’s a way to cater both to those who want basic access and to those willing to pay more for premium features.
- How: Implement features like monthly, quarterly, or yearly subscription options. You could use dating software or a dating script to manage these payments and adjust access based on user preference.
– Implement microtransactions
- What to Do: Include microtransactions in your dating platform, like virtual gifts or pay-to-unlock features.
- Why: Microtransactions let users pay small amounts for specific features or virtual items that enhance their experience, boosting revenue without committing to full subscriptions. It also adds an element of fun and personalization, improving user satisfaction.
- How: Use open source dating software or dating services software to integrate features like virtual flowers, stickers, or profile boosts that users can buy individually.
– Optimize CAC through targeting
- What to Do: Focus on reducing your Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) by targeting users more effectively.
- Why: If you spend less money attracting new users, your overall profits increase. Using better targeting can help you show ads to the right audience—those who are most likely to be interested in your app—thereby reducing costs.
- How: Utilize online dating app development tools or dating site scripts that allow you to track user behavior and segment your marketing to specific demographics, like age or interests, improving conversion rates and reducing acquisition costs.
– Increase LTV through gamification
- What to Do: Boost your Lifetime Value (LTV) by making the platform more engaging through gamification elements like rewards and challenges.
- Why: The longer users stay on your platform and enjoy their experience, the more value they bring over time. Adding gamification makes using the app feel more like playing a game, increasing engagement and user loyalty.
- How: Consider adding features like badges for activity streaks, leaderboards, or unlockable content. These elements can be developed with matchmaking software or dating cms to make the experience interactive and enjoyable, thereby encouraging users to keep returning and spending more.
Facts and examples:
The average revenue per paying user in dating apps is $243 per year. Implementing virtual gifts and boosts can increase this by 40%.
11. Emphasize sustainable development
Users value socially responsible services:
• Eco-friendly offline events
• Support for social initiatives
• Educational content
• Psychological support
Image: pinterest.com/pin/AUcQfrAtI0mH-8tiWfD5wJF4aFAC72Hd9GlddJMUl8HnIFBiZ96w97M
What to do:
– Implement eco-friendly features
- What to Do: Include environmentally friendly features in your dating platform, like encouraging paperless communication or promoting green events.
- Why: Many users today care about sustainability and would appreciate a platform that aligns with their values.
- How: You can add features like “green badges” for users who practice eco-friendly habits. Think of using dating script open source to develop a platform that offers environmental awareness as part of the user experience.
– Support social initiatives
- What to Do: Promote social initiatives within your dating platform, like supporting local charities or events.
- Why: This helps build a positive image for your brand and makes users feel they are part of a community that gives back.
- How: Feature options like “participate in local events” or offer white label dating site that supports charity. You can create special matches where part of the proceeds go towards a social cause. This might also be useful for how to start a matchmaking business aimed at creating a community that shares social values.
– Create a mindful community
- What to Do: Focus on building a supportive and safe community where users feel valued.
- Why: Many people look for a safe and nurturing environment for relationships. A mindful community can stand out in the competitive dating market.
- How: Use features like dating templates or dating white label that have pre-built communities or moderation systems. Create strict community guidelines and have a dating app script for reporting harmful behavior. This is important for people who want to feel that their voices are heard and that they’re safe.
– Promote healthy relationships
- What to Do: Actively promote and support healthy relationships through content and app features.
- Why: People seek genuine connections, and promoting mental well-being can set your platform apart.
- How: Provide content like articles or quizzes about communication and trust-building. Use how to create an online dating app techniques that include features for compatibility checks, reminding users about respectful interaction, and adding dating website design features focused on promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Facts and examples:
33% of young users consider honesty the most important quality in a partner. Mentions of “honesty” and “transparency” in profiles grew by 30% in 2023.
12. Attend industry events
Industry conferences and exhibitions help:
• Study competitors
• Find technology partners
• Get feedback
• Attract first users
What to do:
– Participate in dating industry conferences
- What to Do: Attend conferences related to the dating industry.
- Why: Conferences are a great place to learn about new trends, technologies like dating software or dating app development services, and what other companies are doing. It also helps in networking with key players in the industry.
- How: Look for relevant events, both in-person and virtual, that focus on dating services software and innovations. Register, participate, and be open to discussing your ideas and challenges with others.
– Organize offline events
- What to Do: Arrange meetups or gatherings for users.
- Why: Offline events help create a community around your dating platform and provide valuable user engagement and feedback.
- How: Use white label dating app tools or platforms to manage events. Create spaces where users can interact, share experiences, and feel part of a supportive network, ultimately building loyalty to your service.
– Establish partnerships
- What to Do: Partner with other companies or service providers in the industry.
- Why: Partnerships, especially with companies offering matchmaking software or dating site scripts, can expand your reach and provide new features or services to your users.
- How: Identify potential partners—like those offering white label dating site solutions—that complement your business, and propose a partnership to mutually benefit and improve user experience.
– Collect feedback from participants
- What to Do: Gather feedback from users who participate in your events or use your service.
- Why: User feedback is crucial for improving your platform, understanding user pain points, and identifying areas for growth.
- How: Implement feedback forms after events or use surveys within your dating app. Analyze the data to see if users appreciate certain features or if they face problems with elements like the dating website script or online dating template.
Facts and examples:
25% of couples now meet through online services, compared to 20% through friends. Speed dating is regaining popularity, opening opportunities for hybrid formats.
13. Analyze international markets
Study successful foreign projects for adaptation to the local market. For example:
• Asian video dating formats
• European verification systems
• American monetization models
• Latin American social mechanics
What to do:
– Study successful foreign projects
- What to Do: Study the features and success stories of dating software used in other countries.
- Why: By examining successful dating site software in other markets, you can identify what’s working well and potentially adapt these proven ideas for your own market.
- How: Visit popular open source dating platform projects in international markets and look at how they engage users and solve common issues. This research will help you figure out how to make your own dating site software stand out.
– Adapt popular features for the local market
- What to Do: Take the successful features of existing open source dating app or white label dating site platforms and adapt them for your local audience.
- Why: Features that are popular in one region may need some customization for a different culture or community. Adapting them can help your dating service software be more relevant to your audience.
- How: Consider how elements like dating website design or dating script php can be modified to appeal to local tastes, ensuring your dating website has a familiar feel while offering unique functionalities.
– Consider cultural specifics
- What to Do: Pay attention to cultural aspects that might impact how your dating app is perceived in a specific market.
- Why: Different cultures have different customs and expectations when it comes to dating, which will impact how they use a dating app. Understanding these specifics can make your dating website more attractive to local users.
- How: Analyze successful matchmaking software or dating templates from other countries and consider what features could be adapted or changed to fit the local cultural norms.
– Plan international expansion
- What to Do: Once your dating site is successful locally, start thinking about expanding to other countries.
- Why: Going international can multiply your user base and increase your brand value. Planning for it from the beginning will help you build a scalable and versatile dating software.
- How: Use best dating software and online dating script solutions that are adaptable for different markets, and consider which regions have a growing interest in dating platforms.
Facts and examples:
By 2040, 70% of couples will meet online. The online dating market on social networks is estimated at $100 billion, while the specialized service market is $4 billion.
14. Get inspired by social changes
Current trends to leverage:
• Mental health and mindful relationships
• Gender equality and inclusivity
• Work-life balance
• New family and relationship formats
What to do:
– Follow social trends
- What to Do: Keep up with current social trends by observing popular topics on social media. Look at what people are talking about and what’s gaining attention in the dating world.
- Why: Trends show you what people care about right now. By understanding what’s popular, you can align your dating platform with these interests and stand out from other dating software.
- How: Use trending tabs on platforms like Instagram or TikTok, follow influencers who talk about relationships, or use social listening tools to stay informed. You can even look for trends on Google Trends to see what’s gaining traction over time.
– Support inclusivity
- What to Do: Make your dating platform more inclusive by considering features and designs that welcome people from all walks of life. Think about various identities, orientations, and preferences.
- Why: Inclusivity is crucial in today’s dating market, as it ensures that everyone feels represented. Platforms like white label dating app or dating service software that cater to a broad range of users often see higher engagement and success.
- How: Offer more options during profile setup, such as adding fields for different gender identities and relationship types. Use the inclusivity present in dating website templates to support these user needs effectively.
– Implement educational content
- What to Do: Offer educational content to help your users understand relationships better and use your platform effectively.
- Why: Users appreciate content that helps them grow. It builds trust with your platform and keeps them engaged longer. Plus, educational content can differentiate your service from other dating website software options.
- How: Create blog articles, videos, or even quizzes that cover topics like building a good dating profile or ensuring safety while dating online. You could use existing dating app development services or online dating software tools to enhance these features.
– Create a safe space
- What to Do: Ensure that users feel secure by creating a platform that actively protects them from harm and inappropriate behavior.
- Why: Safety is a top concern in the dating industry. Users are more likely to join and stay on platforms where they feel safe. By using features such as dating app fake profiles detection, you can greatly improve user experience.
- How: Implement tools to verify user identity, use moderators, or set up a reporting system for abusive behavior. You can use matchmaking software or online dating script that allows for user safety features, providing a trustworthy environment for everyone.
Facts and examples:
80% of OkCupid users are open to discussing politics with partners – a significant increase compared to a decade ago. 23% prefer video chat before meeting in person, 15% more than in 2020.
Idea validation
Before launching, test your idea:
1. Conduct Market Research: Start by looking at what’s already out there. This means researching different dating apps and services to see which are popular and why. You can use tools like Google Trends to see what people are talking about. By studying existing platforms, you can find gaps—places where user needs aren’t being met—and use those gaps as an opportunity for your own.
2. Gather a focus group of the target audience: A focus group is just a small group of people who represent the type of users you want for your dating service. You ask them what they like, what they don’t, and what they wish existed. It’s a great way to get direct input from your potential users before you start building anything. Their feedback helps shape your idea into something people will actually want to use.
3. Calculate project economics: Before diving in, it’s crucial to figure out how much your project will cost and if it’s realistic. You need to consider things like development costs, marketing, and ongoing expenses. The idea is to make sure that what you want to build can be profitable and isn’t going to cost more than it earns.
4. Attract an investor: If your project needs more money than you have, the next step is to find an investor. This is someone who will give you funding in exchange for a share of the profits or ownership. You’ll need a solid pitch—explain why there’s a need for your dating service, how it will make money, and why it’s worth their investment. Think of it like Shark Tank: you need to sell your idea.
5. Make presales with an MVP: An MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is a basic version of your app that has just enough features to attract early users. You can offer presales to start generating income even before the full launch. This approach lets you test the waters, collect feedback, and see if people are willing to pay for what you’re building—all without investing too much upfront.
6. Grow: Once you’ve validated your idea and gained some users, it’s time to grow. This could mean adding new features, expanding your marketing efforts, or enhancing the app’s usability. The goal is to keep attracting more users and making sure they stay. Growth is what keeps your business thriving in a competitive space like the dating market.
Each of these steps helps you move from an idea to a thriving dating business, in a logical way that reduces risk and maximizes your chances of success.
Best tools for market research
1. Google Trends – for tracking trends
2. Similar Web – for competitor analysis
3. App Annie – for researching mobile apps
4. Social Mention – for social media monitoring
5. SpyFu – for keyword analysis
Conclusion
Opportunities for creating a new dating service are everywhere – the key is finding your niche and solving real user problems. Use these tools and approaches to find a promising idea and test it before launch.
The online dating market is projected to reach $11.6 billion by 2030, with an average annual growth of 4.1%. This creates excellent opportunities for launching new projects in this niche.