As much as 45% of us now prefer online dating apps to find ourselves suitable dates over the traditional courtship methods of an era gone by.
Looking for love online is no longer as taboo as it once was. With the right approach, Mister Right could be but a swipe away.
Finding like-minded people who you are going to click with is all about letting the dating pool know who you are and what it is you are looking for. This requires the right profile – one made to find the matches that might lead you to someone special.
Getting your online dating profile right requires balancing candor and capturing yourself in a few lines. It is no easy task, so let’s talk through the top dos and don’ts!
Picking the Perfect Profile Photo
The photo you select is an important step that shouldn’t be arbitrarily chosen. It is your first chance to make a good impression.
We all have an inner critic, but remember not to go mad on the filters and pick something that shows your best features, but accurately represents the way you look.
Below are the do’s and don’ts if you want to make sure your photo gets noticed for the right reasons.
Do: Make Sure it’s Clear and High-Quality
The image quality is important; try not to pick anything dimly lit or with a lot going on – you should be the focus.
Make sure your face is visible, and remember: outdoor lighting is naturally flattering!
Don’t: Confuse Potential Matches With Group Shots
Your friends might be super important to you, but group shots can confuse onlookers swiping through a sea of candidates. Your profile photo needs to highlight you. There will be plenty of time for your suitor to meet your mates later down the line if your dates go well!
Do: Let Your Personality Shine Through
It’s never a bad idea to add a few snaps that show off your interests or hobbies. If you are outdoorsy, then take the photo in your favorite environment and give potential matches a better idea of who you are.
Make Sure Your Bio is Compelling
Your photo is your initial shot at getting attention. Then, everything rests on your bio. Attraction goes beyond looks, so it is important to let people know enough about you without revealing everything.
You want to be intriguing and interesting, but it is important to be authentic above all else, or you’re not going to find the one for you.
Do: Keep it Genuine
People love authenticity, so be yourself – if you’re quirky, don’t be afraid to show it! Your bio ultimately should reflect what makes you, you! Whether it’s a passion for salsa dancing or collecting retro LPs, tell it like it is in your bio.
Don’t: Use Generic Descriptions
It is easy to opt for generic lines such as “loves walking on the beach”, but what does that really tell anyone?
The phrase “looking for someone with a good sense of humor” shows up in 9/10 profiles, but who isn’t?
Be specific; share something memorable about yourself and really try to pinpoint what you are looking for in a companion.
Do: Add a Little Humor if You’re Funny
Aside from physical attributes, a good sense of humor is on just about everyone’s list, so injecting a little into your bio is a great idea so long as it’s not forced.
If a bit of quick wit isn’t something you’re gifted with, then don’t bother, authenticity is always king!
Pinpointing What You Are Looking For
Sometimes, we spend a long time describing ourselves because we are familiar with the territory, but highlighting what we are after is a different matter entirely.
Being honest and open about what you are seeking is the best way to attract exactly who you are looking for. It is the aim of the game and should never be overlooked.
Do: Be Specific (But Not Overly So)
Try to hone in on the traits that appeal to you and present them in phrases; don’t just write a checklist. Something like “I’d love to meet someone competitive who enjoys outdoor sports and can keep up with me” or “I admire people who aren’t afraid to show emotion”.
Don’t: Focus on the Negatives
Try not to be negative, avoid describing what you don’t want, and stick to the positives. Instead of saying you hate cheaters, say you value loyalty, giving it a positive spin, which is far more inviting.
Online Dating Safety: Red Flags to Avoid
With all online activities, there are privacy risks to consider, and, sadly, the dating pool is also filled with catfish and scammers.
The data says around 30% of all online dating profiles are fake – so keep your information safe and stay vigilant.
That’s why a VPN for dummies can be a good solution to help you keep your data secure.
Do: Trust Your Guts
Being a little cautious is sensible; if something seems odd, keep your guard up and trust your instincts.
Catfishers may have profile pics that are too good to be true and make excuses as to why they can’t video chat or meet.
Scammers in the online dating world often rush into relationships or ask outright for very personal pieces of information.
Don’t: Share Sensitive Information
Your home address and financial details need to be kept to yourself. If a conversation heads that way early on, you need to be cautious.
Final Thoughts
Polishing your online dating profile requires being mindful of the first impression that you want to make. It starts with a quality photo that captures your appearance and a genuine bio that tells your story.
Don’t skimp when you are highlighting what you are looking for – how else will you find it? But remember to stay positive!
With the strategies above, you have the tools for attracting the attention you want with your profile.
While we have made it clear that honesty is the best policy in your bio, remember not everyone is who they appear to be, so trust your guts and stay safe!