How To Create An Online Dating Profile That Works

By Sarah Stefanson
[Personals]
Relationships

You may be asked to list your relationship status.  Some sites are pretty basic in this area, offering only Single or Attached, while others can have a list a mile long including Single, Dating, Committed, Engaged, Common-Law, Living Together, Married, Divorced, Open Relationship, Swinger and more.  Dating sites will also usually ask you to specify what kind of relationship you’re looking for and these can range from Activity Partner to Long-Term Relationship and everything in between.  Choose any and all that apply, but again, be truthful.  If you’re definitely not looking for a long-term relationship, but you think that’s what girls will respond to, it’s irresponsible to portray yourself as such.

Personal Information

This is the area where the really important stuff is included.  Many sites will suggest that you list your favourite movies, books, TV shows, hobbies or activities.  This is a good way for someone viewing your profile to figure out if you have similar tastes.  You can tell a lot about a person by how they spend their free time.  For instance, if I came across a profile that listed Family Guy, South Park and King of the Hill as a guy’s favourite TV shows, I’d probably skip on by, but a Joss Whedon fan might catch my eye.  List anything you think is important, but don’t go overboard.  Nobody wants to read your Top 50 Movies of All Time list.  Keep each category to under 10 titles.

Perfect Date

Some dating sites will ask you to describe your ideal date.  This is your chance to be creative.  Don’t say “dinner and a movie” or “a walk on the beach.”  Even if those are things you would do on a first date, they are not exactly attention grabbers.  Either come up with something original and interesting (search “date idea” on The Soko for plenty of quality plans), or leave this area blank.

Picture

This is possibly the most important part of your profile.  Like it or not, the first judgment that is made of your online profile is based on the image that you choose.  Often, potential dates won’t even look at profiles without photos.  Yes, you do want someone to appreciate who you are as a person, but if they are not attracted physically, all you can hope to end up with is a good friend.  

For your main profile image, pick a photo that is clear, well-lit and shows your face.  Don’t put up a photo of your dog or your truck.  Don’t put up a picture of you kissing some stranger at the bar.  This is usually your first chance to make an impression, so choose a photo that accurately represents you and your personality.

__________________
click away

Once you’ve got a stellar profile put together, you can get started in your search for the right guy or girl.  Keep your standards high.  You’ve put a lot of work and thought into creating a profile that truly represents you and you deserve to get the same from the people who approach you online.
BACK