In part 1 of “How I got 30 matches in a week” we will be focusing on two of all the tools for finding the right partner on a dating app – “Your Profile Photo” and “Your Bio”.
The purpose of profile photos isn’t just to show what you look like—they’re meant to showcase who you really are. Your profile photos on dating apps are, without a doubt, one of your strongest assets in landing a match or even a date. They give your potential match an idea of the kind of person you are and can provide that crucial icebreaker for your first chat.The aim of your first picture is to get the person to read your bio and give you that swipe of approval. It’s important to grab their attention in the half-second they’ll spend on your profile. When selecting your photos, it’s important to strike a balance: your profile photo shouldn’t be so niche that your match won’t understand it, but also not so generic that it doesn’t help you stand out. It’s all about finding that perfect spot where you're comfortable talking about yourself while intriguing your future match.
Ideas and Hygiene for Profile Photos - Most dating apps allow you to upload more than one photo, so take advantage of this! I recommend using four profile photos.
Avoid group photos, especially with people of the opposite gender. This can confuse your match or divert attention away from you. Selfies are great, but mix them up with other types of photos. Include a full-body shot in a setting that reflects your personality. For instance, I like to use a photo at Worli Sea Face because it showcases my wild, free spirit—just like the unpredictable waves behind me.
Open body language is key. Avoid crossing your arms or legs in photos, as it can give off a closed-off vibe. Instead, opt for relaxed poses that invite conversation.
Try to include at least one photo based on an interest or hobby. It could be something simple, like holding your favorite book, photography, or playing the guitar.
Filters are a good way to enhance your photos, but don’t overdo it. The goal is to look like yourself, just a little more polished—not like a completely different person.
Confidence is everything. Your profile photos aren’t just about how good you look; they’re about telling a story of who you are. When creating your profile, don’t just upload random photos from your phone. Taking specific photos in different settings and outfits where you feel your best is better. Think of it like your CV—showcase your best side!
Adding photos with your pets can be a great way to show off your kindness and empathy, which might get missed in a world of quick swipes. Smile in your photos, and add a candid headshot for authenticity. While some suggest including a party photo, I think it’s more important to showcase your confidence in your way.
Lastly, don’t forget to add captions to your photos. This can help guide conversations and give more context to what’s happening in the picture.
Boost Your Matches with Simple Engagement - Another way to get more matches is by commenting or complimenting other people's photos. A small, thoughtful comment can make you stand out.
Crafting Your Bio: It's Not Just About You
When it comes to writing your bio, don’t focus entirely on who you are. Instead, think about who you want to go out with and what kind of relationship you’re looking for. This doesn’t mean being fake or lying, but rather, presenting yourself in a way that makes the person reading it want to be part of your life.
Here’s an example of a bio I use:
"Adventurous soul with a love for spontaneous road trips, cozy cafes, and late-night deep conversations. By day, I’m the boy next door, and by night, I’m hunting for the best pizza in town. Looking for someone who’s up for a little mischief, a lot of laughter, and exploring life one adventure at a time. Bonus points if you love dogs, bad puns, and can’t resist a good playlist. Let’s see where this goes!"
As you can see, it’s not just about the activities I enjoy—it’s about the kind of person I am. But please don’t copy-paste this bio onto your profile, show who you are. For apps like Aisle, where people take more time to read your profile, a longer bio works. But for faster-paced apps like Tinder or Bumble, you’ll want to keep it short and sweet since people tend to skim quickly.
Dating Isn’t About Numbers, It’s About Connection
Remember, dating isn’t about racking up matches or dates. It’s about finding someone who genuinely connects with you. By avoiding a few simple mistakes and focusing on your strengths, you can create a profile that stands out and helps you find your perfect match.