How to Write an Awesome Online Dating Profile to Find Your Perfect Fit
Creating an online dating profile can be daunting. An attractive profile photo is great, but you'll have to go beyond the generic profile that doesn't say much for those looking for love.
It's easy to feel like you have to be the most interesting or funniest person on the app. In the end, keeping it simple and honest will get you the best results.
Here are a few tips to make your online dating profile stand out and find your perfect fit in no time.
How to Make the Most of Your Online Dating Profile
Tell a Story With Your Pictures
Photos are a great way to introduce yourself to strangers. Make sure your profile photo shows your entire face with a smile – the more crinkles, the better! Mix it up with headshots, full-body shots, and active images to show off your hobbies and interests.
Choose recent photos! One of the biggest complaints in online dating is ‘they may have looked like that once, but they certainly don’t now.’
Be Super Specific
The more specific you can be about who you are and what you like, the more likely you will draw the attention of someone who shares your interests. Be concise. A good rule to follow is the 70:30 rule. Talk about yourself 70% and use the other 30% to elaborate on the kind of partner you’re looking for and dating experiences you would enjoy. This helps others know if you're a fit without coming off self-absorbed.
Avoid Cliches
Generic and surface-level profiles get lost in the crowd easily. Even if you love to ‘take walks on the beach,’ leave it out – everyone else already said it. Instead, think of something interesting you’ve done or a place you visited that could be a conversation starter. The point is to get people to message you and get to know you.
If you’re having a tough time, get a friend to help. They probably know you better than you know yourself.
Stay Positive
People want to be around other people who have an optimistic view of the world. Choose words and phrases that give off positive vibes. Saying, “I’m excited to meet someone who wants a meaningful connection.” is positive. Saying, “Not interested in hook-ups.” comes off angry. Focus on hobbies and characteristics that are people and value-centric.
Throw Out Your Checklist
When a dating app allows you the option to enter what you’re looking for, don’t get too detailed. It’s ok to include deal-breakers, but for things like height, weight, hair color, and income – there’s no need to list these things. Even if someone checks all the boxes, you’ll most likely still come off unapproachable. And, you'll be surprised how easy it is to fall for someone who doesn’t meet your initial criteria.
Check Your Grammar
People assess unintentional cues, like grammar and spelling mistakes. Make sure to give your profile one last read-through and run AutoCorrect before posting. Typos happen; most people get that, but putting in a bit of effort will show and be appreciated by others.
Have Fun
Most people want to spend time with people who make them laugh, so show your sense of humor. A humorous, clever tone says a lot more than “I’m hilarious.” It's a great icebreaker and will get the conversation off to a positive start.
Fill in All the Fields
Take full advantage of the tools the app provides. If it lets you add six photos, then add six photos. Allows you to list your favorite activities, then do it. Not only will you give people a fuller picture of who you are and your interests, but it shows you’re putting in the effort, and you’ll come off more available and interested.
While it can be a little overwhelming creating an online dating profile, don’t sweat it. Just be honest, be yourself, and be specific. You’ll be fielding matches in no time.