The Perfect Dating Profile
Dating apps: a love-hate relationship for most of us, right? I mean, where else can you feel like both a goddess and a leftover banana at the same time? As a 20-something woman who has done her fair share of swiping (yes, I’ve been ghosted, super-liked, and even matched with my senior school physics teacher… yikes), I’ve learned a few things about crafting the perfect dating profile. So grab a glass of wine (or iced coffee if it’s before noon), and let’s dive into how you can level up your profile and turn swipes into something more than just, "Hey, how’s it going?"
The Photo Game: It’s Not Just About Your Face (But It Kind of Is)
Let’s be real: your photos are your first impression, and yes, people are 100% judging you based on them. But don’t panic! You don’t need to look like a runway model—you just need to look like you, but on a good day.
First things first: your opening photo. This is your digital handshake, your grand entrance, your “hello, world!” Make it count. Use a clear, well-lit shot of your face where you’re looking directly at the camera. Bonus points if you’re smiling like you just heard your best friend’s juiciest gossip.
Now, let’s talk variety. No one wants to swipe through six identical selfies—unless they’re your mum. Throw in a full-body shot so people know you have legs (important), a hobby photo (maybe you’re hiking or playing with your dog… unless you’re me and your dog hates photos), and a social pic with friends. But—and this is key—make sure you’re identifiable in group shots. No-one wants to feel as thought they are playing “Where’s Wally?”.
And please, for the love of all things holy, ditch the Snapchat filters. You don’t need bunny ears to be cute. Trust me. In all honesty, scrap snapchat all together. If you are old enough to have a dating profile, you are old enough to communicate via message.
Oh, and if you’re thinking about uploading that picture of you holding a fish… just don’t.
Bios: Where the Real Magic Happens
Alright, you’ve hooked them with your photos. Now it’s time to reel them in with your bio. Think of this as your personal highlight reel. And no, that doesn’t mean listing every accomplishment your mum has stuck on the fridge.
A good bio is short and sweet—like a mini trailer for your life. You don’t want to give away the whole plot, just enough to make someone think, “I need to know more about this person.” For example, instead of saying, “I like cooking,” try something like, “I’m on a mission to find the world’s best tacos, one bite at a time.” Boom. Instant intrigue.
And humor… oh, sweet humor. Nothing breaks the ice like a well-timed joke. My own bio once said, “Looking for someone who won’t judge my Spotify playlists (yes, there’s a Disney hits section).” Did it work? Let’s just say I’ve had a lot of debates about whether “Let It Go” is overplayed (it’s not).
Oh, and don’t forget to mention what you’re looking for. If you want something serious, say so. If you’re just here for a good time, that’s fine too—but honesty saves everyone time. And if you even think about selecting the “Long-term, but happy with short”. DONT YOU DARE. Like, what the hell does that mean? You are looking for someone to create a future with, but will have no issue putting a timer on the whole thing. Huh?
Prompt Responses: Your Time to Shine
Most dating apps now have prompts to help guide your profile, and honestly, these are my favorite part. They’re like mini opportunities to show off your personality without having to write a full essay.
Here’s the thing: basic answers get basic results. If the prompt is, “A fun fact about me is…” and you write, “I like pizza,” congratulations, you’re officially as interesting as a cardboard box. Try something more memorable, like, “I’ve read every Agatha Christie novel ever written and still can’t solve the mysteries before the end.”
For “Two truths and a lie,” don’t be afraid to get a little weird. One of mine was, “1) I’ve swam with sharks. 2) I’ve never had coffee. 3) I’m fluent in three languages.” (Spoiler: I’m drinking coffee while writing this)
When a prompt asks, “The way to win me over is…,” give people something to work with! For me, it’s, “Loving dogs is non-negotiable. Bonus points if you’ll share your fries.” You’re welcome to steal that one.
And don’t be afraid to lean into your quirks. For example, if the prompt is, “Let’s make sure we’re on the same page about…” you can say something like, “Pineapple does not belong on pizza. Let’s not fight about it.” Boom. Conversation starter.
A Few Final Thoughts
Okay, I know this can all feel a little overwhelming. Crafting the perfect dating profile is basically the digital equivalent of walking into a party and trying to be charming, funny, and approachable all at once. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be you.
So take your time, experiment with different photos and bios, and don’t be afraid to ask a friend for feedback. (Unless that friend is your mum, who will inevitably suggest you add that one picture from your cousin’s wedding where you look like a Victorian ghost.)
And remember: dating apps are just the start. The real magic happens when you meet someone who thinks your love of Disney songs and dislike for pineapple pizza is as charming as you do. Happy swiping!
