So you’ve decided to take the plunge and join an over 50s dating site like SilverSingles. But what comes next? As much as we’d like to start matching you with people, we need a little input from you; namely, a dating profile. Because we realise that most of our members are new to online dating, we’ve lent a helping hand. This comes in the shape of our expert guide on how to write a dating profile that stands out.
Learn how to write a dating profile with SilverSingles
Learning how to write a dating profile that grabs attention isn’t something to be taken lightly; it takes patience and some forethought. The good news is that we’re here to show you the 10 dos and don’ts when it comes to crafting a biography you can be proud of. Sit yourself down, put on your favourite album and loosen up, it’s time to get typing! Remember, with SilverSingles you can constantly revise what you’ve written if you feel something’s missing!
Do be honest
Let’s kick-off with a point that should underpin the whole process of writing a standout dating profile, particularly when it comes to over 50 dating. That’s right, honesty reigns supreme when it comes to online dating. Not only is truthfulness a laudable virtue, it’s something that prospective partners will immediately warm to. Don’t be tempted to weave a few white lies into your profile – if your match doesn’t like what they see, then it’s their loss. Being clear about the sort of person you’re looking for falls under this point too.
Don’t overshare
Encouraging you to be transparent is about being honest and not lying about things like your age, height and weight. It doesn’t mean you should go into great detail in your dating profile and document your life intricately. This is something you should reveal to your date gradually. After all, a bit of mystery adds to the romance! Instead of writing a tome-like biography, opt instead for a punchy snapshot built on a few key characteristics that set you apart from the crowd.
Do tell a story
Following on from the former point, be sure you think about the story you’re telling with your dating profile. You might think this contradicts the “punchy snapshot” we discussed above, but hold on a second. You want to convey a sense of who you are as a person, which is why it’s paramount to think about the traits that make you both unique and attractive. Use these qualities as the pedestals from which you tell people why they should be interested in dating you.
Don’t list desired characteristics
You’ve already done this in taking our personality test, you don’t need to spell it out in your profile. Not only is the information surplus to requirements, it could end up making you look a bit picky (especially if you word it in an uncompromising manner). To avoid sounding superficial, err away from stating things such as how important it is that your match has a Herculean physique! Instead, let our clever matchmaking system do the hard graft!
Do talk about personality
That said, it’s important that you go into a bit of detail concerning the sort of character you’re looking to meet. Rather than listing height, eye colour, shoe size and goodness knows what, instead talk about the sort of traits you find attractive. Maybe you value a good sense of humour, or someone who’s into health and fitness? Be sure to put it in your dating profile!
Don’t be generic
Pondering how to write a dating profile is as much about creativity as it is about clarity. You need to make sure that you don’t sacrifice your individuality in an effort to cram in all the points you deem relevant. Rather, showcasing your idiosyncrasies to help foster intrigue. Substitute the usual fodder (think “I like going to the movies”) for something more personal (think “Movie-lover with a penchant for Bollywood flicks”).
Do be positive
Being positive is always appreciated, though it’s something you do need to lay on in measured doses. Dating profiles that emit confidence and an upbeat vibe are always well received; think sentences like “one of my great joys in life is…” or “I’m passionate about…”. Conversely, avoid the overly enthusiastic “I just LOVE…” or “I’m SO EXCITED to meet someone who…”. It’s unlikely any capitalised crooning will result in tangible success.
Don’t be negative
Which brings us nicely on to our next point; avoid negativity at all costs. If there’s something you can be sure of, it’s that pessimism will pour cold water on any spark you might have with a potential match. Outright negativity is easy to avoid, but it’s the subtler nuances you need to be aware of. For example, sarcasm, cynicism and all things snarky are advised against. Also, try not to include the fabled “don’t message me if…”; this transmits a standoffishness that pushes people away.
Do spellcheck
One of the more obvious inclusions on the list, but one that so often gets overlooked. Always check your spelling and grammar! Fair enough, the thrill of writing a dating profile for the first time can make you giddy with excitement. But that’s no excuse for getting your words all jumbled up. Once you’ve penned your profile, take time to review it. Don’t let sloppy syntax scupper your dating prospects.
Don’t forget pictures
You should see your biography as a way of talking to your matches, communicating your strong points as well as an invitation to strike up a conversation. That said, photos are an integral part of any successful dating profile. Although profile pics are worthy of an article in its own right, let’s discuss three main points.
Firstly, make sure you include high-quality, recent snaps (this links to our first point about honesty). Secondly, include a variety of shots; a couple of you alone and with friends is a nice balance. Lastly, use images to tell your story – make sure they’re connected in some way to your wordsmithery!
Are you ready to put our 10 ‘how to write a dating profile’ dos and don’ts into action? Come and discover a fresh take on over 50 dating and register with SilverSingles today!
About the author: The Editorial Team
Bringing you the very latest dating trends, relationship advice and news from Inside SilverSingles, the Editorial Team are on hand to guide you through the online dating game...