Website dating companies give you a wide variety of options to describe yourself and your interests. You can answer questionnaires, join groups, and list your interests and values. But when it comes to writing in that open-ended part of your profile, you might be making crucial mistakes that are keeping you from being taken seriously.
- Do not use too many smiley faces. If you are using a website dating program, it is likely that you have outgrown them. Smiley faces are seen as childish and sort of desperate. A plain, occasional ":)" is okay, but others can be too much.
- Do not be a pessimist. Women are especially guilty of listing the types of dates they do not like. But going on about how much you hate "players, cheaters" etc. It makes you seem as though you are moody and unhappy. It will also show that you have a lot of emotional baggage. Anyone looking at your profile will be turned off by the idea of nagging and complaining.
- Don't come off as insecure. Show a little confidence. If you make yourself seem vulnerable you will appear to be less attractive than you really are. Do not say things like "You can send me a message.. if you want.. if not that's okay.." There is also no need to put yourself down, or point out your flaws.
- Don't be too cocky. It is nice to have a sense of self esteem, but putting others down or coming off as self-centered is a fast way to drive potential suitors away. Cockiness can be as obvious as "I only date hot chicks," or as subtle as "I'm extremely talented in the art of soap making. Showing off your achievements is usually a bad idea.
- Don't just list your interests. There is more to you than favorite bands and hobbies. Put some personality into your profile, even if it is not in-depth. When you list your favorite bands in your profile, you give others an idea of what to talk about. When you include some personality, you help others decide how to approach you.
Be sure to reread your profile after you have written it to be sure it is friendly in tone and portrays yourself truthfully. Read it again in a few weeks to make sure it is still accurate. Your feelings and opinions might change often, so it is important to be sure you attract the right dates.
Also keep in mind that your profile must be age-appropriate. What sounds okay for a 20 year old will not be okay for a 40 year old. Look at other profiles from your age group to get an idea of what kind of profile will be the most suitable.
Most importantly, use that space. Blank profiles are acceptable on social networking sites where you will only encounter those who already know you. But anyone who takes the time to read your profile before messaging you will be able to make a better approach rather than just judge you on your photograph.
