Go online, google “phone” + “dating” and you’re sure to find a plethora of articles that outline in excruciating detail all the ways our smartphones are ruining dating and modern romance. However, I’m here to tell you that when used properly, your cell phone can actually be your best wingman or wingwoman. When you are intentional about your smartphone use, it can actually bring more romance and fulfillment to your dating life.

Don’t believe me? Here’s a few ways that your cell phone can improve your online dating life.

1. Mobile dating apps –

Before you shrug your shoulders in indifference, hear me out. Mobile dating apps aren’t just made for late night hook-ups or connecting with “randoms.” Most major online dating sites like Match.com and Plenty of Fish have mobile versions of their sites that are used by hundreds of thousands of singles everyday.

If you want to be successful in online dating, you need to be consistent and prompt (sorry, taking three weeks to respond to her messages probably won’t get you that far.) One of the great things about mobile dating apps is that they help accomplish this by allowing you to be more flexible with online dating. If the thought of spending more time in front of a computer when you get home at the end of the day makes you cringe, with an mobile app you can get in touch with people, respond to messages and make plans wherever your life takes you. In other words, mobile apps help you be a better and more efficient online dater.

(Just make sure you mind your manners! With great technology comes great responsibility. No one wants to find themselves on a date with someone who is messaging other matches while they’re in restroom.)

2. You can send sweet follow up texts –

Think there’s nothing romantic about texting? Think again! I absolutely love it when I’ve been out with a guy the night before and he takes the opportunity to send me a sweet follow up text the next morning letting me know that he had a really great time. Sending a thoughtful text only takes a minute or two and can leave the other person smiling for the rest of the day. Use this technology to your advantage!

3. Your phone allows you to be more spontaneous –

Although I’m a firm believer in making set dates with people you’re interested in,

sometimes a little spontaneity is really nice. For example, if you’re out and about town, thinking of the person you’re interested in, having a smartphone makes it possible for you to send them a quick text that says, “Hey, I just stumbled across this really cool street fair that I think you’d really enjoy. Any chance you’re around and want to explore it together?” Knowing that someone is thinking of you is sweet and romantic.  Spontaneity doesn’t have to translate to flakiness. Just remember to follow up those spontaneous invites with some fun, set in stone plans!

Don’t want to invite them anywhere out of the blue? You can’t go wrong with a simple “hey, I think you’re awesome. I hope you are having a great day!” text. “Oh, I hate hearing how awesome I am” – said no one ever.

4. Phone calls become more special –

Since the advent of the smartphone, it can often feel like when it comes to dating, actual phone calls have become virtually extinct. However, instead of fearing the phone (many people do), use it to your advantage. Because phone calls are rare, they automatically become more special when you decide to initiate them. After all, there’s something very sexy about hearing someone’s voice. My boyfriend and I spend a lot of time texting back and forth, however every so often one of us will mix things up and make an actual phone call and it’s always such a nice surprise! Instead of texting to confirm plans or let her know that you had a good time, call. It shows courage, confidence and moxie!

5. You can follow up after a date in fun and exciting ways –

Another key to being a successful online dater is mastering the art of the follow up. If you had a good time (or even if you didn’t) sending a polite follow up is the mature and thoughtful thing to do. Want to really show that you had a great time while upping the romance? App features like Zoosk delivery allow you to send a small gift to the object of your affection – for example, flowers or candy – all from the comfort of your smartphone. If I had a terrific date with a man and he sent me flowers the next day, I’d be impressed. Very, very impressed.