You've heard over and over again that posting an online dating profile is one of the best ways to increase your chances of meeting someone special, so you finally did it.
Maybe you stayed up late, struggled with writing about yourself and hunted down just the right pictures. After all that, you found yourself staring at a bunch of emails from people you'd never date or even an empty inbox. Now what?
If you're disappointed with the results you've gotten with your online dating profile, take a look at these three tips. Chances are that at least one of them will be of some help.
Tip #1: Post 4 - 6 great photos
Your pictures need to be good. Really good. You have about two seconds to get someone's attention with a photo online before they move on. You may be a great catch or have a fantastic written profile but none of it matters if your photo isn't getting clicks.
I recommend that your photos include the following: A great headshot for your main photo, one picture of yourself dressed up, a casual photo and a flattering body shot. You can also add photos of yourself participating in an activity or sport you love.
Your photos should be less than three years old. If your appearance has changed more recently than that, get new ones taken. If you think your pictures may be too old, they probably are.
Look straight at the camera and smile. Make sure you're fully clothed unless you want an inbox full of disrespectful emails.
Tip #2: Be unique
Avoid clichés and lists of your travel destinations. Same goes for a list of books you've read or movies you've seen. These things won't make anyone rush to meet you.
Your online dating profile needs to be personal, unique and compelling. It doesn't need to appeal to everyone. Take a chance and write about who you really are. Don't water yourself down.
Instead of just saying that you're a great cook, consider writing about the last thing you whipped up in the kitchen and why you enjoyed making it. If you describe yourself as "adventurous" does that mean climbing a mountain or trying a new cuisine? Write about adventures you'd like to have in the future with your new beau.
Tip #3: Nix Negativity
Avoid using your online profile to vent about past experiences. Also, instead of writing "Don't contact me if you're a liar" or "I'm not looking for games or drama" try "I'm ready to meet someone special, are you?" or "I'm looking forward to finding someone to build a great relationship with."
Don't post quizzes or lists of deal-breakers. Essentially, avoid anything that makes you sound fed up, jaded, or cranky. Keep in mind that the goal is to get responses from the most desirable candidates, not to discourage everyone from contacting you.
Just following these three tips should give your online dating profile a fantastic edge over most of what's being posted. Now that you've read them, pull up your profile and take a look at it with these tips in mind. If some changes are in order, make them as soon as possible so that you can start going on better dates today.
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