If you’ve ever spent an evening swiping left more times than you can count, only to end up with a bowl of popcorn and your dog for company, you’re not alone. Crafting a great dating profile can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube in the dark. But fear not! As a dating coach who’s seen it all, I’m here to guide you through the maze and help you create a profile that not only stands out but attracts the right kind of attention.
Recipe For a Great Dating Profile
1. Be Authentic – But the Best Version of Yourself
Let’s get real: everyone’s tired of the cliché “I love long walks on the beach.” It’s not that you shouldn’t mention things you genuinely enjoy, but it’s about being specific and genuine. If you’re a foodie, instead of just saying “I love food,” share a story about the best meal you’ve ever had or how you’re on a quest to find the perfect ramen in your city.
As a dating expert, I always tell my clients that authenticity is key. People can sense when you’re not being yourself. However, this doesn’t mean airing all your dirty laundry. Focus on highlighting your best qualities—those that make you unique and interesting. Think of your dating profile as your personal highlight reel.
2. Choose the Right Photos
Your photos are the first thing potential matches will see, so make them count! You don’t need to hire a professional photographer even though it can help, but you do need to choose pictures that show you at your best. Here’s a quick rundown from a professional matchmaker’s perspective:
Smile: A genuine smile is inviting and shows you’re friendly and approachable.
Open Your Face: Show just your face. Avoid sunglasses, masks, hats, or other accessories.
Variety: Include a mix of photos—one close-up, one full body, and a few that show you doing something you love (hiking, cooking, playing an instrument).
No Group Shots: Keep the focus on you. Group photos can confuse people or make them guess which one you are.
And please, avoid bathroom mirror selfies or messy backgrounds, as well as duck faces and filters. We’re looking for a connection and want to see real you!
3. Write a Compelling Bio
Your bio is where you really get to shine. Think of it as your elevator pitch—except you’ve got a bit more time to make an impression. A dating consultant like me would suggest keeping it concise, witty, and informative. Start with a hook that grabs attention. Maybe it’s a quirky fact about yourself or a funny anecdote.
For example, instead of saying “I’m a teacher,” try something like “By day, I’m molding young minds; by night, I’m trying to master the art of sourdough bread.” This gives potential matches something to ask you about and shows a bit of your personality.
4. Be Clear About What You’re Looking For
One of the most common mistakes I see is people being vague about what they want. If you’re looking for a serious relationship, say so! If you’re just exploring, that’s okay too—just be upfront. This saves time and avoids mismatched expectations.
Dating coaching often involves helping clients identify what they really want in a partner, so don’t be afraid to get specific. Whether it’s shared values, a sense of humor, or a love for adventure, let people know what makes you tick.
5. Show, Don’t Tell
This is a classic piece of writing advice that applies perfectly to a dating profile. Instead of just listing qualities like “I’m funny” or “I’m adventurous,” show these traits through your words and examples. For instance, instead of saying “I love to travel,” you could write, “Last year, I hiked the Inca Trail in Peru and discovered that I have an odd talent for communicating with llamas.” This not only demonstrates your adventurous spirit but also adds a touch of humor.
Showing rather than telling makes your profile more engaging and memorable. It gives your matches a better sense of who you are and what it might be like to spend time with you.
6. Highlight Your Passions
People are drawn to those who are passionate about something, whether it’s a hobby, a cause, or a career. If you share your passions it can spark connections with like-minded individuals. For example, if you’re passionate about photography, you might say, “When I’m not at work, you can find me chasing the golden hour with my camera in hand, capturing the beauty of everyday moments.”
7. Be Playful and Lighthearted
Dating should be fun, so let your dating profile reflect that! A bit of humor or playfulness can go a long way in making your profile stand out. Instead of just stating facts, you can add a playful twist. For instance, rather than saying “I love coffee,” you could write, “I’m on a lifelong mission to find the world’s best espresso—care to join the quest?”
8. Avoid Negativity
One of the biggest turn-offs in a dating profile is negativity. Phrases like “No drama please” or “Don’t message me if you’re not serious” might seem like you’re setting boundaries, but they can come across as pessimistic or defensive. Instead, focus on what you do want and what excites you.
For example, instead of saying “I’m tired of games,” you could write, “I’m looking for someone who’s as excited about building a real connection as I am.” This not only frames your desires in a positive light but also attracts like-minded individuals who share your enthusiasm.
9. Proofread!
This might sound basic, but you’d be surprised how many profiles are full of typos and grammatical errors. A well-written profile shows that you’re serious about putting your best foot forward. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference.
10. Update Regularly
Finally, don’t set it and forget it. A dating expert knows that an active profile is an attractive profile. Update your photos, tweak your bio, and keep things fresh. It shows that you’re engaged and interested in meeting someone.
Does Your Dating Profile Tell Who You Truly Are?
Writing a great dating profile isn’t about pretending to be someone you’re not. Your goal is to show the best version of yourself and be clear about what you’re looking for. As a dating and relationship coach, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-crafted profile can change the game. So take your time, be authentic, and most importantly—have fun with it! Your next great match could be just a click away.
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As a dating coach and matchmaker, I specialize in guiding singles frustrated with dating apps' superficiality toward finding meaningful love and real connections. I offer 1:1 dating coaching for men, dating coaching for women, matchmaking, dating profile audits, and empowering dating profile pictures for successful online dating. Book a free 30-minute discovery call and learn how your dating life can be changed.
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