When it comes to writing a dating profile, you can end up spending hours staring at the screen at a complete loss as to what to write.
After all, this is going to be the first thing anyone who clicks your profile will see.
In the dating world, there is only one chance to make a good impression.
Maybe you have already created a profile, but the empty inbox is a constant reminder that your profile is not attracting the attention you hoped for.
And you can't see where you are going wrong.
Well, you are not alone. Writing a good dating profile or following and applying the list of etiquette rules is a struggle
But - we are going to make it that much easier for you.
Read on for some tips and inspiration to help your dating profile stand out and secure you that sought-after first date.
1) Use Details
It is no good adding a long list of all the things you enjoy doing.
This is not the hobby section of your CV. Having a list is very impersonal.
It won't make the reader feel any connection to you, even if they also enjoy some of the things you list.
Rather, choose a few key things that you love, and expand on them
If you are talking about a sport, add a little anecdote of something that has happened to you while playing or watching it.
If it is a creative hobby like cooking, give more information about the types of food you enjoy cooking. Or, add a couple of recipes that you are experimenting with.
A list isn't eye-catching.
A memorable story will be more appealing.
2) Do Not Focus on Negatives
This refers to both how you describe yourself, and how you write about your ideal partner.
Firstly, everyone has personality quirks or what you might class as negative traits about yourself.
Maybe you are an over-thinker, perhaps you bite your nails when you are anxious.
Or sometimes you don't change your bedding often enough. 😂
Regardless of what it is, do not include it in your profile, now is not the time to be getting down about yourself or focusing on a minor quirk.
This will make an immediate poor impression of you, and it will come up naturally in the future anyway.
At that point your date will not care about such things.
Secondly, while it is good to know what your type is when it comes to the personality of your ideal partner, you still need to avoid offending those who are not what you are looking for.
Don't come across as a rude jerk to everyone else.
For example, if you are not looking for someone who loves to spend their weekends out partying, don't write that you are not looking for a party animal.
Instead write that you are looking for someone who is happy with quiet weekends snuggled at home.
Or you like going out on long walks, always make it a positive.
3) Don't Speak Too Much About One Part of Your Life
You may think your job is interesting but other people may not.
You might think that your choices of exercises are fun to read about, but other people most probably will not.
It is important to put genuine details about yourself and your life, and of course, this includes things like your job, your family, or free-time activities.
But no one wants to read several paragraphs about any of them.
Let's face it, reading about the ins and outs of someone's career, for example, is boring.
So don't include every detail you can think of. Be more than just one thing.
4) Be Clear About What Type of Relationship You Are Looking For
This is good for both parties, you can save time by not having to weed through people who are not on the same page as you.
And, the other party will be more inclined to message you if they know from the beginning what it is you are looking for.
If you want just a fling then write it, if you genuinely want a long term-relationship, then say it.
Don't think that people will find it too forward if you clearly state what you want.
We assure you they won't, being clear from the beginning is exactly what people in the dating world want.
5) Add Some Romance
Sure, it's not manly, but it's cute, and girls love cute.
Add your favorite quote to your profile, something that has meaning to you, and if you are comfortable then explain what it means to you.
Alternatively, add a few lines about the ways in which you are romantic.
If you enjoy bringing girls flowers, or holding hands in restaurants then say it.
Don't feel embarrassed, it is endearing and will show your vulnerable side which will make people feel like you are more open and honest.
6) Don't Try to be Funny
If being funny comes naturally to you, that's fine, but for the most part, keep it away from your profile
You can add in the odd funny line here and there but don't litter your profile with humor.
It is often hard to read someone's tone and you could easily find yourself coming across as impolite or pompous, not the as the comic you were hoping to be.
When you start to meet dates in person, there is plenty of time for you to read the situation and display your humor when the time is right.
Conclusion
Writing about yourself will never be an easy task.
Mostly we can only think of our bad points, worry we are not interesting enough, or that no one will find anything we do remotely impressive.
But stop right there!
Focus on the abundance of positives you have and the good things you bring to people's lives.
These are the things that make you the person you are, and these are the things you want the reader to know.
Don't be afraid to be open and real - you will soon find plenty of messages in your inbox!