Did you know that there are certain words and phrases that are likely to attract more potential matches than others? While you may feel as though your profile reads like an open book, there are some specific ways of saying what you mean that stand up to the scrutiny of potential partners better than others. Words such as ‘ambitious’, ‘perceptive’, ‘intelligent’, ‘outgoing’, ‘energetic’, and ‘spontaneous’ are likely to get your profile a second, more thorough look. However, did you know there are also a few words and phrases that you should avoid using if you want to find love?
While not exhaustive, this list should give you a good idea of where to start…
‘I’m looking for the perfect man/woman with…’
By all means start your profile by stating what you’re looking for; after all, men and women who know what they want often come across as assertive, and ultimately, attractive to the opposite (and same) sex. It’s important to state your reasons for online dating, and to be honest about your intentions. However, setting the bar too high and listing the qualities you consider to be attractive could put off potential partners – and make you seem too fussy. There could be an incredible man or woman out there for you, but has your profile just told them not to get in touch?
‘Did it hurt when you fell out of heaven?’
Chat up lines and cheesy clichés should be avoided at all costs; not only do they reveal absolutely nothing about your personality, but you’re unlikely to get many catches from a line like that…
‘Long term relationship’, ‘ex-partner’, ‘committed’
Referencing your last relationship in your dating profile is never a good idea, particularly if you’re explaining that you’ve only recently had your heart broken. Online dating can lead to deep, meaningful partnerships, but it often starts out as a little bit of fun. Your potential matches are unlikely to want to hear about your baggage before they’ve begun to know you – and you’re putting people off with your inability to let go. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being cautious when it comes to online dating, but try not to come across as guarded in your profile.
‘I can’t stand…’
Your likes and dislikes are an important part of who you are, and you’re bound to want potential partners to know what gets you going, and what turns you off. However, using words and phrases such as ‘hate’, ‘I can’t stand’, and ‘detest’ is going to clog your profile with negative connotations – even if your pet peeve is justified. As the old adage goes, ‘if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all’. Instead, focus on the things you enjoy, mentioning your dislikes in the general information section of your profile.
And the worst offender of all:
[BLANK]
Potential matches, enticed by your photo, are likely to be disappointed when they don’t get to learn anything about you from your profile – aside from the basics. Your profile is your chance to shine, and to tell others why they should be reaching out to date you. A blank profile, therefore, may come across as arrogant or lazy. If you can’t be bothered to fill in a few details about yourself what else can your matches expect from a budding relationship with you? It may be that you’re too shy to let others in, or you’ve been engaged in a daring adventure away from you computer – whatever your excuse, leaving your profile blank is unlikely to inspire any meaningful matches.
