How to craft an irresistible online dating profile
If you’re tempted to look for love online, make sure your profile does you justice with these six dos and don’ts.
About a third of Australians who met their partner last year, met them online.
An Australia Talks National Survey found the number of men and women using dating websites and apps to find love has been increasing for the past decade – and there’s no sign of that slowing down.
“Online dating is no longer taboo and it makes sense when so many other aspects of our life have gone online,” says relationship and dating coach Samantha Jayne.
But with so many dating sites and so many people online, how do you create a dating profile that stands out from the crowd?
Tell a story
“Rather than listing your interests, be descriptive. Paint a picture of what you like,” says Samantha.
“Describe your ideal weekend – I like to sleep in or rise early, love going to the beach or starting the day with a delicious coffee. Talk about your passions and things you want to do.”
Stick to the truth
Don’t try to make yourself sound more interesting by saying you enjoy things that you don’t.
“Don’t say you love surfing if you don’t, because if you end up surfing with a date it’s going to be obvious that you don’t surf,” says Samantha.
Share what you are looking for in a partner
Summarise three or four values you are looking for in a potential partner. Do you want someone who is family oriented, intelligent, well-travelled, a homebody or into health and fitness? If so, say so.
“Stick to three or four things – a long list is a turn-off and makes you sound like hard work!” says Samantha.
“Don’t be scared of saying you want marriage and children if that’s what you are looking for. It’s a great way of filtering out people.”
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Choose photos that show what you enjoy
One selfie or headshot is fine but add photos that tell a story about who you are and what you like to do, for example a photo of yourself overseas or in a favourite place, or taking part in one of your hobbies.
End with a call to action
Finish with words like, “so if you’re someone with family values who loves spending time at the beach and who is looking for a potential partner, send me a message”.
Test your profile
Spend time fine-tuning your profile.
“Ask a friend who is positive about online dating to check your profile. Then put it online, test it for a week, see what responses you get and tweak it if you need to,” says Samantha.
- Make an impression: Dos and don’ts of first dates
Written by Sarah Marinos.
