Start with honesty
The best profiles give an honest picture of who you are: your interests, your quirks and what matters to you.
There's no need to sell yourself as someone you're not. The aim isn't to attract everyone, it's to attract the people who'll actually suit you. Being genuine from the start makes that far more likely.
Ask a friend to help
Many of us find it hard to write about ourselves without feeling big-headed.
If you're stuck, ask a close friend or family member what they'd say about you. They know your best qualities, and they'll often spot things you'd never think to mention.
Keep it positive
Lead with the things you enjoy and the things you're looking forward to.
A self-deprecating joke might be funny in person, but in writing it can easily come across the wrong way. Let your warmth and personality show, and give people something to smile about.
Be specific
Little details are far more memorable than general statements.
- Instead of "I like travelling", try "Still dreaming about the pasta I had in Naples last spring".
- Instead of "I enjoy the outdoors", try "Happiest on a muddy walk followed by a pub lunch".
- Instead of "I have a good sense of humour", try telling them what makes you laugh.
Keep it short, and leave a little mystery
A paragraph or two is plenty.
Give people enough to know whether you might get on, and leave some things to talk about. The best profiles end up answering the question "what should I say to them?" before it's even asked.
Check your spelling
A quick read-through makes a big difference to first impressions.
You wouldn't send off a job application full of typos, so give your profile the same care. Read it back out loud, or ask someone else to have a look.
Talk about what you want, not what's gone wrong
Leave out past relationships and bad dating experiences.
Lines like "none of the other sites have worked for me" can sound negative, even when they're meant light-heartedly. Focus instead on what you're looking for, whether that's someone to explore new places with or someone to share Sunday mornings and the crossword.
Then add great photos
Your words and your photos work together.
Choose a clear, recent photo of just you as your main picture, and steer clear of group shots that leave people guessing. Our guide to 10 dating profile photos you shouldn't post has the full list.
Finish with the ID Verified tick. Verifying your profile shows people you're genuine, and members with the tick get far more interest.
Once your profile's ready, you'll need something to say. Read how to start meaningful conversations on a dating app for ideas.