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Venturing out into the online dating scene is not easy, especially when it comes to creating a dating profile that lets others know who you are. Consequently, it’s common to feel pressure to either write a lot or to be the funniest or most interesting person on the app.
But the truth is that no one expects you to be perfect. Sometimes it’s the simplest and most honest dating profiles that are the most effective.
Remember that an online dating profile is basically personal marketing. As a result, you’ll want to do everything you can to put your best foot forward. Knowing how to capture your own personality, idiosyncrasies, interests, and general outlook on life in just a few short paragraphs can be daunting even for the best writers. So, here are a few tips on how to make your online dating profile stand out in the crowd.
Choose Your Photos Wisely
Photos are one of the best ways to introduce yourself to strangers. But, too many times, online dating hopefuls will select a profile picture that isn’t completely clear or hides their face in some way. People want to see you and get a sense of who you are. So, select a photo that shows your full face, hopefully with a smile.
Additionally, if you have the option to upload multiple photos, do it. After all, it takes more than one photo to reveal more about your personality to others.
You can supplement your profile photo with a full-length photo, a photo of you engaged in a hobby, in a social situation, on vacation, or with your pet. You may even choose to include or even a silly photo that lets your essence shine through.
Your collection of photos should paint a picture for the viewer of who you truly are. They should also be clear photos that make it easy to tell which person is you. Large group photos and blurry photos may lead people to pass you by.
Fill in All the Fields
One mistake a lot of people make is not taking advantage of the tools the app provides. For instance, if the dating site you’re on allows you to have seven photos, then provide seven photos. If the app provides the option to verify your photos, then take advantage of it.
The key is that you make use of every tool they provide. The more effort you put into your online dating profile to show others you’re available and interested, the more responses you will likely receive.
Provide Plenty of Examples
Try to make your profile interesting by giving examples when talking about things you enjoy. For instance, instead of saying that you enjoy reading, tell readers your favorite book. Or, if you like hiking, tell them your favorite trail.
The more you go into detail, the more likely a person might get excited and think “they’re perfect for me.” On the other hand, if your profile is surface-level and generic, it’s easy to get lost in the pile and be dismissed. You can even provide details of the type of person you are looking for or the types of dating experiences you might enjoy.
Be Concise
Even though details are important, it’s still smart to be somewhat selective about the information you choose to share. When it comes to writing a dating profile, good grief desktop a short paragraph or two is enough. You should give an overview of who you are, but not tell your entire life story all at once.
Remember, you want to give people a reason to message you and get to know you, and there’s something fun about maintaining a little bit of mystery!
Additionally, make sure your profile isn’t too long and that you stay upbeat and positive. Providing lots of don’ts or information about what you don’t like is a turnoff for many people-even when they agree with you.
Create Opportunities to Connect
One of the best things you can do with your dating profile is to provide ways for people to start a conversation with you.
For instance, once you are matched with someone, they are going to view your profile and, if you’re interested, try to think of something to say when they reach out. Consequently, you want to be sure your profile provides enough information that they could ask you a question about something in it.
Or, if you want, include a conversation starter. Apps such as Hinge provide prompts for you to fill out with details of yourself, many with the implication of starting a conversation. “Change my mind about. “, “Two truths and a lie”, and “What I want to know about you” are all fun ways for you to put some information out there that makes it easy for people to reach out and break the ice.
Be Honest
When it comes to online dating, it can be tempting to stretch the truth a bit in order to present yourself in the best possible light. But, the majority of people prefer honesty over perfection.
So, make a concerted effort to be as open and honest as you can. After all, you are just setting yourself up for unneeded stress and disappointment if you try to come off as someone you’re not.
While it’s natural to want to be accepted, it’s more important that you aren’t trying to fit yourself into some mold that you think others would want. Remember, it’s the little oddball things that make you interesting!
So, if you have watched every Hallmark Christmas movie ever made, admit it. Or, if you really love puns, share that too. Of course, you don’t have to share every oddball thing there is, but provide just enough to show that you are not just another online dater.
A Word From Verywell
At first, it can seem overwhelming to create an online dating profile. But the truth is, you just need to follow a few simple rules: Be honest, be yourself, and be specific. If you follow those guidelines and couple the information with some solid photographs, you will be fielding matches in no time.