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Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:12:18 PM   
scottjk


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There are a couple of threads that are 'kinda' skirting the topic, but I wanted to put it out there bluntly...

What is your search strategy in finding a partner? Is it working for you?

I haven't really thought about this myself until a few days ago, and frankly, no, it's not working for me. lol

I didn't have a strategy at all really, just post a profile, tweak it, and talk on the boards and IRC.
I've sent out a few inquiries, but I haven't had much in the way of results there. (Read: none)

Maybe we can help each other out with this topic as well.

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:20:59 PM   
sublizzie


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My latest strategy was to say I am no longer looking and just here to read the message boards. Hasn't changed the number of people contacting (or not contacting) me though.

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:25:45 PM   
ArgoGeorgia


Posts: 256
Joined: 2/9/2007
From: Atlanta, Georgia
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I just go up to every woman I meet and say "Kneel before Argo!".  Hasn't worked out real well though....

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:26:49 PM   
ExSteelAgain


Posts: 1803
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From: Georgia
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If you are talking online tactics, I would go in lots of chatrooms, plus keep on with the message boards. Take your time and talk a lot with someone until you both feel like you know each other well. Then anything is possible. It works.

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You can paint a cinder block bright pastel pink, but it's still a cinder block. (By Me.)

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:29:31 PM   
Padriag


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Depends on where you are searching really.

Online is a very competitive place to search for any sort of companion.  Its just not an environment conducive to that.  This is no small part due to the fact that the internet encourages, by its nature, a kind of fantasyland atmosphere.  It is very easy for people to lie here and many do, from small exaggerations to large, blatant lies.  Competing against that, if you are genuine and relatively honest, is very difficult and the odds are against you.  I'm not presently actively searching.  If I were, I would would likely put up my own website where I could build a profile as detailed and extensive as I wish (as opposed to the relatively small amount of space allowed on most sites, such as CM).  There, I would use my best skills and attributes to my advantage.  I'm a writer, so I'd share essays I've written on the lifestyle, information on various aspects to showcase my experience, my level of knowledge and competence, etc.  I'd also go into depth discussing my beliefs, philosophy, approach to training, etc as regards the lifestyle to give some insight into what I'm like, what life with me would be like, etc.   I'd probably put up some photos of not just myself, but my home with me in it, to give an impression that I can provide stability, etc.  In short, I'd provide a wealth of information to prospective slaves with which to "entice" them and to showcase my best qualifications.  Someone with different talents and abilities would have to look for a different strategy.

Offline, I'd probably avoid munches (something I don't care for) and instead look in strip clubs (I used to work in one so its an environment I'm comfortable with) or possibly college campuses (another enviroment where I'm comfortable, especially the libraries, I'm in them often enough).

Or I might do as one person suggests (and he knows who he is) and finish a book I started on the lifestyle, publish it and then wait for the offers to roll in.

There are a lot of potential strategies out there... for most people looking for one, I think they could probably learn a lot from a peacock.  It would be nice to think that just being yourself is enough, and if you get lucky it might be.  But the the sad truth is not only is online a competitive environment, its a very unfair competitive environment and if you don't do something to even those odds up a bit, then you may be in for a lot of frustration.  Like the peacock, most of us are going to have show off our plummage a bit to get noticed.  I don't think there's anything wrong with that, so long as we stay honest about our merits.

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Padriag

A stern discipline pervades all nature, which is a little cruel so that it may be very kind - Edmund Spencer

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:30:10 PM   
LuckyAlbatross


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quote:

ORIGINAL: scottjk
What is your search strategy in finding a partner? Is it working for you?

I put myself out there- I go to munches, parties, conventions and let people know that I'm open.  I see what the universe brings me and if it's a sparkly thing, I take a closer look.

I've never actively set out to be in a relationship.

And yeah, it worked too well :)

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Find stable partners, not a stable of partners.

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:35:28 PM   
openmindedslave


Posts: 470
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I find that if you talk to someone... treat them with  intelligence. A lot of Mistresses I have spoken to who are looking for a long term relationship  (always study the profile) really would like to hear some intelligent conversation first. Those that have been on here long enough, have already  received dozens of emails that  state to want to beg to serve. Some  just get turned off by  people they don't know whoring themselves out ..Not all mind you , but by studying a profile who can generally learn  about one another.

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 4:38:34 PM   
ScreamerGirl


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I don't "search".  I'm open to finding what I want, but I don't actively look for it.

What I want and need will come to me when I'm ready to receive it.

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 5:37:03 PM   
SusanofO


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I know some people might think it's a "numbers game" to find someone (and to some extent, I'd agree, even if I am not a Dominant and don't have first-hand experience that equals a Dominant's as far as seeking may be concerned).

I think if someone is going to read the message boards, personally I always appreciate it if they've actually posted some responses to some threads - it is one safe way to sort of get to "know them"  a little - without actually writing to them first. There can be an attraction factor that is worth something you can build on, IMO. I read posts (and am not seeking a partner, but have observations on this topic that could possibly help someone), but - I am still amazed at the number of folks who don't ever post.

I realize many have time constraints, but if I was seeking a partner, I'd post a lot. This isn't directed at you scott, at all (I see you post) it's just a general comment.    

I really liked the idea of a small or even larger and more involved web-site (as Padriag suggested), it can really help someone display their true colors, I think.
Start small and build form there, if it seems like an overhwelming task - but that idea is really worth something, IMO.

General comment to whoever (not directed at you, scott): I think the folks who are actively seeking yet have a balnk profile are deluding themselves. Possibly not -I know "luck happens", but a quality, well-writte profile can say volumes about someone, and this site has scads of excellent (and terrible or almost non-existent ones) to use as examples. I cannot imagine why some people ignore the possibilities inherent in developing this potentially very valuable tool.

In a profile: Describe yourself - what makes you a great person someone would want to meet (without exaggerating). What are you actually offering, not just expecting in return? Put that up front - to me, nothing is a bigger turn-off than a list of "demands" and what I'd be doing for someone if I was their submissive, without any mention anywhere (or buried at the bottom) of why I might be interested in doing those things. You might have a Domnant personality, (or a submssive one) but you're still a person - nobody likes a completely self-involved ego-maniac. 

Go for sincerity and use humor (if that's your thing. For some it may not be part of their "mystique" but to me, it makes someone seem easy-going and approachable, which I see as good things). Tell about yourself: What are your hobbies, education (if you worked hard for a degree, or advanced degree - or are very good at what you do, say so - you don't have to be so specific you'd "out" yourself, if that's a concern) - what are your lovable quirks? Do any interesting volunteer stuff? Favorite cities or hang-outs? How do friends describe you? What makes you memorable? What makes you different form anyone else on the planet? You are you know - obviously. What makes you - you? 

When describing what you seek
: What specifically are you envisioning, as far as a submssive or a Dominant? Anything that is an absolute deal-breaker that might be unique to yor situation? (except the obvious things). I'd be moderately specific, but not so detailed and choosy, you cut off, or scare off potential partners.

Got kids? In college? Heading toward retirement? I think some people may well think "some of this is none of anyone's business, until we get to know eachother". Fine - then don't complain later, if you spend 3 weeks e-mailing them, only to find out they are more mwhatwon't re-locate, and are married to thir immediate relatives and friends, into what you are seeking than are what you seek. Narrow the possibility of that occurring (it could still happen but you can lessen the chance of that). 

And, after someone has a few people write to them, well, personally, I'd opt for zoning in on a few people immediately (after an initial "thanks for wirting me" note, if thois applies (whihc it could - and good luck! ) rather than trying to mass-market to fifty, or even thirty, say.

I just think trying to focus on more than maybe say 6 or 7 folks at a time is confusing and it strectches one's ability for qaulity one-on-one focus to the limit - so, when you do get responses (and I am hoping and guessing you will, scott,eventually - don't give up!) it is easier to make a more quality focus on a few folks, and narrow it down from there.

That sounds likea personal preference (and it is), but I always hate the feeling I am part of someone's "mass-market" campaign it's just so impersonal. Probably no advice here, some haven't heard before, but anyway...those are my "two cents." 

Good luck. Someone is out there and they are for you. I have no doubt about it.

- Susan

< Message edited by SusanofO -- 2/28/2007 5:43:04 PM >


_____________________________

"Hope is the thing with feathers,
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune without the words,
And never stops at all". - Emily Dickinson

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 5:39:35 PM   
FukinTroll


Posts: 6277
Joined: 2/6/2007
From: Under a bridge
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I try to get them all together and herd them off a cliff. I keep the survivors.


P.S. subs and slaves, it is that time of the year again!

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I'm the guy your girl is thinking about when she is fucking you!

TrollTopia
Greedy Groupie!

The Mods have me on speed Spank!! Gotta luv'em.

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 5:43:59 PM   
Zsuzsanna


Posts: 108
Joined: 12/17/2006
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: scottjk

There are a couple of threads that are 'kinda' skirting the topic, but I wanted to put it out there bluntly...

What is your search strategy in finding a partner? Is it working for you?

I haven't really thought about this myself until a few days ago, and frankly, no, it's not working for me. lol

I didn't have a strategy at all really, just post a profile, tweak it, and talk on the boards and IRC.
I've sent out a few inquiries, but I haven't had much in the way of results there. (Read: none)

Maybe we can help each other out with this topic as well.


I'm not sure if it's a strategy, but I just look around and if I find someone interesting I let them know I find them interesting. And the conversation begins.

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"Somewhere Ralphie smiles and says enjoy her every cry." Tori Amos

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 5:55:10 PM   
Padriag


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Joined: 3/30/2005
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quote:

ORIGINAL: SusanofO

That sounds likea personal preference (and it is), but I always hate the feeling I am part of someone's "mass-market" campaign it's just so impersonal. Probably no advice here, some haven't heard before, but anyway...those are my "two cents." 

I agree with pretty much everything Susan suggested.  I'll add one other thing, stick to what you are comfortable with.  Nothing sticks out more than someone trying very hard to be something or someone they aren't and its a turn off to most women.

That said, I quoted that last bit of what Susan wrote because I thought it a good example of one of the inequalities most men face.  What Susan said is true of most women (and I'd wager most people) in that they don't want to feel like part of anyone's mass market campaign.  Yet men generally get a very low response rate to emails written, if you get 1 reply out of every 10 sent, you're probably doing about average.  That means that if a dominant man writes 100 women, he can probably only expect 10 of them to reply, 20 if he's doing well.  Then reduce that number further for those who are polite enough to reply but still aren't interested or otherwise don't work out.  The result is men have to generally write to a lot of women to get even a few potential possibilities worth "zoning in" on.  For most, writing that many personalized letters is a very time consuming and daunting chore.  So, predictably, you get the form letters.  And just a predictably you get women barraged with those form letters who begin blocking them.  And also predictably, you get men complaining about what rude bitches most of these submissives are (which is often unfair and born out of frustration).  It's vicious cycle and one of the main reasons I do not put much stock into searching online.

Besides, at least at a strip club I get to see something nekkid!

_____________________________

Padriag

A stern discipline pervades all nature, which is a little cruel so that it may be very kind - Edmund Spencer

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 5:57:18 PM   
BOUNTYHUNTER


Posts: 9259
Joined: 2/5/2004
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we really don't have a search strategy per say.we just are up front in our profiles, here we are ,this is who we are and this is what we seek..WE also attend lots of munches ,own yahoo groups and attend a lot of leather events around our part of the world..WE found one girl 5 miles from us .So it goes to show you where ever you are there are someone for you closer then you may think..ONLINE is a cut throat business,So many are cyber queens and just plain players..NO I am not here just for the forums smile...bounty

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 5:59:58 PM   
nissa


Posts: 125
Joined: 2/28/2007
From: Carson City Nevada
Status: offline
Greetings Scottjk
 
I have no set in stone search strategy. I am not actively searching on the other side and only use the profile itself as a base for the forums. Personally, I prefer to do my hooking up in the flesh; I meet others at munches, clubs, events, through friends/mutual acquaintances,  etc. I have found that it works much better than the INTERNET. ( of course, this is just my own experience )

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 6:03:17 PM   
WhiplashSmile


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I think LA best said it.  To put yourself out there!  Which is what I did last saturday, by getting off the computer and mixing it up with the crowds.  I've been in fact making more BSDM jokes and whatnot with other people.  When the timing is right.  Plus I have a few friends which are into or have been in BDSM at some point in time.  Be it just the kinky sex or whatever.   I generally pay close attention how people dress and the Jewelry they wear, these can be clues!  You simply need to break into and mix with the right social circles.  This make take a little work, but be honest and sincere when you meet people.  Take time to get to know them.   If you are only looking for a BDSM partner and could care less about getting to know people... You are somewhat screwed! 

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 6:16:42 PM   
PsyVamp


Posts: 1026
Joined: 10/30/2006
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Heck, I'm not really looking for anyone....thats why I seem to find them I guess



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Could a blue screen of death constitute being defenestrated?
~Owner of wolf~ (one of them, anyway)

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 6:28:06 PM   
stockingluvr54


Posts: 673
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No luck yet and no real strategy....I just try and be honest, upfront,direct and to the point.

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 7:43:32 PM   
SusanofO


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Fukin Troll: You are truly evil. LOL Okay, I never got 50 responses at once I had to reply to (and sorry if I insinuated I did. I did not - and it did probably sound that way. My bad. That did sound weird, and - well, let's just say the fact females might sometimes get more mail then men didn't even need to be mentioned. Because it didn't. Heck, if someone got that many responses at once - who'd have the time to reply in any quality way (regardless of gender)?  What I meant to focus on was, if it's gonna be a mass campaign as far as responding (on any level, whether someone gets 5 replies, or 50) it's gonna probably seem at least slightly impersonal (so the less impersonal, the better).

And I realize that the issue is how to get people to respond to begin with.  I do.

Looks like men and women can have opposite problems sometimes re: Mail, but some of this advice still applies (or can) to anyone.

***Padriag did shine some light on why a man might write a form letter. I won't be offended by form letters, if I see them sometime in the future (and I am glad Padriag mentioned this because yes, it does seem to be a common submissive gripe, and it's been misunderstood, as far as the reason, IMO). I really won't be. Glad this was brought up.

The reason now makes perfect sense to me (I still think personal letters are nicer, but hey, time is limited for everyone). If you're gonna do a form letter (male or female) I'd make it a form letter that sounds as "un-form letter"- like as possible. He also shed light on what is a reasonable "rate of return" for a Dominant to maybe expect. I know submissives get more initial "hits" maybe, but sooner or later they have to narrow that down if that is really the case (and sometimes it is not), and so his advice applies, no matter what sex or gender one is seeking, IMO (generally).

One in 10, as far as good outcomes (for mail response turning into something eventually that looks like it's viable) would be reasonable for some submissives, too, I think (depending on their requirements, how they are presenting themselves, etc).

If it interests anyone, I know each "market" is specialized, but I'd say 10% is an excellent return for a mail program (generally speaking). Heck, in some places 1-3% is considered really a great outcome (honestly). If you are batting 10-20%, count your blessings (even though it could seem like a pain in the keester, regardless of gender).

There is a ddefinite connection, I believe, IMO between the "rate of return" and many other things, but probably two of the important things would be a descriptive, friendly letter honing in on something someone posted about and why you liked it or detailing your opinion (if it's diplomatic, usually, ust my opinion) and describing yourself in more detail - pick up where your profile left off, or go into what you left out of it and re-iterate what's in it: the high-lights anyway - as a first contact.

Or, just e-mail someone and start a conversation, and refer to your profile, or something someone said, or their profile.

DO NOTnot mention upfront "why we are a good match for eachother." If you think so, I'd say instead: "I noticed we both like X, how did you get interested in that? I got inhterested last Summer when I was..." "Being someone's perfect match" is not your sole decision - until you get to know someone a whole lot better, IMO.

The "rules of engagement" as far as connecting with someone, IMO, are not very different from the so-called "vanilla world" until you are much more into an actual, face-to-face (most likely, if you are seeking real-time) D/s relationship. If you want to discuss that stuff, or start w/the "role-pla" and treating someone as if they were your submssive - sure maybe yoiu could toy wiht that BUT - I'd certainly wait a few e-mails at least, and even then I'd not be heavy-handed with it - at all.

As an intiial contact - have a real conversation (w/more than two sentences as your "starter"), at least a few paragraphs, I'd say, if not more.)

Yes, I agree do not try to be something you are not - I get the impression, sometimes, that because they are now considering themselves to be a "Dominant/ Domme" or a "submissive/slave" that people some folks have forgotten they are first and foremost - a person. I never was as much interested in someone's role-paying ability as their ability to be human.

Sure there is a mystique, and fascination, and fulfullment associated w/bdsm and D/s (or I wouldn't be here, or have ever had, or sought out, a D/s relationship or bdsm experiences). Personal quirk: Leather can be nice, and look great, too. IMO, a person w/an enlarged capacity to act like a truly human person, shining through the bdsm "gear", and sometimes posturing, who can be real and human, is nicer still. Just my two cents. And I am no expert (not by a long shot, Just have a few opinions. Take whatever works for you from the above). Good luck to all.    

- Susan 

< Message edited by SusanofO -- 2/28/2007 8:47:40 PM >


_____________________________

"Hope is the thing with feathers,
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune without the words,
And never stops at all". - Emily Dickinson

(in reply to stockingluvr54)
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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 8:15:18 PM   
AquaticSub


Posts: 14867
Joined: 12/27/2005
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: scottjk

There are a couple of threads that are 'kinda' skirting the topic, but I wanted to put it out there bluntly...

What is your search strategy in finding a partner? Is it working for you?

I haven't really thought about this myself until a few days ago, and frankly, no, it's not working for me. lol

I didn't have a strategy at all really, just post a profile, tweak it, and talk on the boards and IRC.
I've sent out a few inquiries, but I haven't had much in the way of results there. (Read: none)

Maybe we can help each other out with this topic as well.


Well, I'm not looking now but the search strategy that got me where I am now (happy 24/7 BDSM relationship) is that I didn't close myself off to "vanilla" guys. I'd had a crush on Valyraen for several years before an window came up where we were both single. So we gave it a shot and after a week or so I opened up my toy drawer (which was a drawer in my dresser stuffed full of rope, vibrators, candles, cuffs, collars, floggers, etc.) and told him that this is what I really love and that whenever he felt ready he could start using them on me. He got the biggest devil grin on his face and asked me "How many can I use at once?"

_____________________________

Without my dominance you cannot submit. Without your submission I cannot dominate. You are my equal in this, though our roles are different.-Val

It was ok for him to beat me but then he tried to cuddle me! - Me

Member:Clan of the Scarlet O'Hair

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RE: Search strategies... - 2/28/2007 8:18:31 PM   
FukinTroll


Posts: 6277
Joined: 2/6/2007
From: Under a bridge
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: SusanofO

Fukin Troll: You are truly evil. LOL - Susan 


Awwww... I'm feeling the luv!

_____________________________

I'm the guy your girl is thinking about when she is fucking you!

TrollTopia
Greedy Groupie!

The Mods have me on speed Spank!! Gotta luv'em.

(in reply to SusanofO)
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