How to Set Up a Good Dating Profile: Expert Tips for Love Success!

Setting up a killer dating profile isn’t just about uploading a few photos and throwing together some lines about yourself. If you want real connections (and to avoid ghosting), you’ve got to put in a little effort. 

Your profile is your first impression, so make it stand out. Ditch the boring bios and craft something that sparks curiosity and makes people eager to meet you in real life. This guide will walk you through every step to make a good online dating profile, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

-How to make a good dating profile

Step 1: Understand your intentions

Step 2: Pick the right app

Step 3: Write an attractive description: Dos and Don'ts

Step 4: Use description tags to be assertive

Step 5: Choosing the Right Photos

-Extra tips for a great online dating experience

-Stop swiping and start dating with Lola💖

-FAQs

How to make a good dating profile

Your dating profile should show the real you, not a version you think people want to see. Pick photos that truly reflect your personality, whether you’re into exploring new places, hiking trails, or enjoying a cozy coffee shop. 

Your bio? Keep it authentic and let your vibe shine through. Let’s see what this Reddit user has to say:

I think your bio should include three basic details:

Who you are. Prompts like "simple pleasure," "typical Sunday," etc. Whatever you do, try to add multiple things here so your match has plenty of questions to ask you.

What you're looking for. How you envision dating to be. Are you looking to travel? Take a cooking class? Paint a picture of what you want dating to look like.

Be honest, add some wit, and don’t shy away from showing a little personality. Skip the boring lines like “I love to have fun” and share something that makes you unique. Here’s a Reddit’s user take in a good dating profile example:

Bio that says nothing useful or personal about them- e.g. “Say something more creative then hey” or “just ask”. Bios are the place to tell other people things about yourself, like your hobbies or interests or what you’re looking for in a partner. It’s amazing how many men would rather waste that space and put in a bad, overused joke or statement instead. Swipe left.

Make your profile a teaser that leaves people curious to know more!

Step 1: Understand your intentions

Before setting up your online dating profile, reflect on what you want from online dating: a serious relationship or casual connections. This clarity helps create a profile that attracts the right matches. Show your intentions -whether seeking meaningful connections or casual dates- to avoid misunderstandings. 

Knowing your goals guides your profile creation on any platform, ensuring your words and pictures align with your true desires. Stop wasting time and focus on making real connections.

Step 2: Pick the right app

Choosing the right dating app is crucial to finding what you're looking for. Different apps cater to different needs and preferences, so picking one that aligns with your intentions is key. Let’s break down the options:

• Lola: Lola is designed for intentional daters who want to skip the endless chatting and meet in real life. Inactive users are removed, so it’s best for people who are ready to date. It cuts through the small talk and gets you to a real date, fast. No games, just real connections. Lola is available only in Boston, but more US locations are coming soon!

• Tinder/Ok Cupid: These apps offer the largest dating pools, so you're sure to meet a wide range of people. However, the lack of a clearly defined audience means you might find yourself sifting through a lot of profiles to find someone who shares your goals, thinking why dating apps don't work for you. Additionally, both apps have limited free features, you’ll need to pay for a subscription to unlock more.

• Bumble: In Bumble, women make the first move, but they only have 24 hours to message their match. It’s perfect for those women who want to put the power in their hands and make connections on their own terms, but this restriction can make it more difficult for some people, especially in a fast-paced dating environment. Also, Bumble’s free features are fairly limited, and many of the best tools are locked behind the paid subscription.

• The League: The League is a selective, paid app for high society and professionals. You must apply and be approved based on your career or education, which limits access to certain users. Additionally, It’s a paid subscription service, so you need to be ready to invest if you want access to its features. 

• Fourplay: Looking for a fun twist? Fourplay is all about double dates, so you can bring a friend along for support or just make your dating experience more social. It’s perfect for people who enjoy group settings and want to make dating a bit less intimidating. The restriction here is that you can’t use the app unless you’re pairing up with a friend to form a duo. This is great if you're looking for a more social and less intense approach, but it limits your options if you're not in the mood to bring a friend along.

• Grindr: A go-to app for the LGBTQ+ community. Grindr is fast-paced and focused on connecting people quickly. It also has a reputation for focusing more on casual connections than long-term relationships. While it does offer free features, there are limitations such as fewer profile customization options and ads unless you pay for a premium subscription.

Create app-specific profiles

If you're using multiple dating apps, it’s essential to tailor your profile to each one. Different apps attract different audiences, and a one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. For example, on Lola, focus on showing you’re ready for real dates with men or women in Boston, while on Tinder or OkCupid, you might want to highlight your flexibility for casual connections. On Bumble, don’t forget to emphasize your confidence, knowing that women make the first move. Creating profiles that align with the online dating app’s vibe ensures you’re attracting the right matches and making the most out of each platform.

Fourplay is all about group dates, so keep your profile fun and social. Add photos with friends, mention your interest in double dates, and show your excitement for trying something new. On Grindr, be upfront about what you’re looking for, whether casual or serious, and keep your profile clear and to the point, highlighting your interests. For The League, focus on your career, education, and serious intentions, balancing ambition with authenticity. Tailoring your profile to each app’s vibe helps you attract the right matches and make the most of your experience.

Step 3: Write an attractive description: Dos and Don'ts

Your dating profile is your chance to shine -so keep it authentic, light, and engaging. Share your passions and quirks but avoid oversharing or diving too deep. Skip the clichés like “I love to travel” and stand out with specific details that show who you are. Highlight your sense of humor and positivity for a refreshing vibe when describing yourself on a dating app. Give a glimpse of the connection you’re seeking without focusing on past disappointments.

Do’s:

• Be honest - Authenticity wins hearts. Share who you truly are, highlighting your quirks and passions, it’s what makes you stand out. Honesty builds trust and sets the tone for a genuine connection from the start.

• Be clear about your intentions - Say what you're looking for upfront. Whether it’s a serious relationship or casual dating, clarity helps you connect with people who share your goals. It saves time and avoids awkward misunderstandings later.

• Describe yourself while keeping some mystery - Offer enough details to show your personality, like your hobbies, interests, or fun facts. At the same time, leave room for curiosity, and give people something to ask about or discover. A little intrigue keeps the conversation exciting.

Don’ts

• Don’t be pretentious. There’s no need to embellish or try too hard to impress. People appreciate confidence and humility over boasting. Keep your tone down-to-earth and relatable, it’s way more attractive.

• Be nice - Kindness is always a good look. Avoid negativity, rude remarks, or too much sarcasm in your profile as it can come across as off-putting. A positive, welcoming vibe encourages others to engage with you.

• Avoid clichés - Skip tired lines like “I love to travel” or “Looking for my partner in crime.” Instead, share unique tidbits about yourself that give insight into your personality. Specific details make your profile memorable and relatable.

Step 4: Use description tags to be assertive

Many dating apps allow you to use description tags to quickly share key details about yourself, like your job, relationship goals, political views, and more. These tags help users find you based on what matters to them and can make your profile stand out. Plus, completing these fields gives you an edge -algorithms often favor profiles with more details, increasing your chances of matching. Be assertive with these tags to show exactly what you’re looking for and who you are, without leaving any important information out. It’s the best way to start dating!

Step 5: Choosing the Right Photos

Your pictures are your first impression, so make them count! Use clear, high-quality images that showcase your personality, whether it’s you doing something you love, traveling, or hanging out with friends. Skip overly edited or misleading pics, nobody wants to see a ton of filters. 

Include a mix: a close-up, an action shot, and one showing your social side. A thoughtful selection of photos tells your story and draws in the right matches.

Do’s:

• Smile! - No one can resist a genuine smile -it instantly makes you approachable and confident. It’s a warm, friendly way to invite potential matches to engage without saying a word.

• Add extra data - Use pictures that tell your story -whether it’s a favorite hobby, a travel adventure, or a moment that shows your sense of humor. Show who you are,  let your personality shine.

Don’ts:

• Shirtless pics - Keep it classy and focus on photos that highlight your personality, not just your looks. Overly revealing pictures can send the wrong message and distract from meaningful connections.

• Your kids’ photos - Unless you’ve mentioned being a parent, avoid including photos of kids. It’s about maintaining privacy and making your profile feel right for a first impression.

• Photoshop! - Be real-overusing filters or Photoshop can backfire when it comes to meeting in person, we’ve all been there. Stick to natural photos that reflect your true self.

• Outdated pictures - Use recent pictures that show how you look today, not in 2016. It’s all about keeping things honest and avoiding confusion when you meet.

Extra tips for a great online dating experience

Be patient finding the right match takes time. Stay safe -never overshare personal details and always meet in public for first dates. Keep conversations light and engaging, ask genuine questions to spark interest. Stay open-minded -the best connections often come from unexpected places. 

Keep Your Profile Fresh

Update your photos, interests, and goals regularly: your profile should evolve with you. A fresh profile not only showcases the best version of you but also signals that you’re active and serious about finding the right match.

See Your Profile Through Fresh Eyes

Try reviewing your profile as if you didn’t know yourself, does it tell a clear and honest story? Make sure your photos and bio reflect your personality and intentions, creating a welcoming vibe for potential matches.

Ask a Friend for Honest Feedback

A fresh perspective goes a long way. Ask a trusted friend for honest feedback to catch vague descriptions or unflattering photos. They’ll help make sure your profile feels authentic and engaging. Embrace their input.

Take Inspiration From Other Profiles

Pay attention to what catches your eye in other profiles: fun bios, vibrant photos, or specific details. Incorporate those ideas into your own. Think about the kind of profile you’d want to engage with and create something that matches that vibe.

Know Your Deal Breakers

Reflect on past experiences to identify what works for you and what doesn’t. By knowing your non-negotiables, you’ll attract matches who align with your values and save yourself time and energy.

Stay Vigilant About Fake Profiles

Be cautious of overly perfect or vague profiles - they can be a red flag. Stick to platforms with strong safety measures and trust your instincts if something feels off, you’ve seen The Tinder Swindler.

Stop swiping and start dating with Lola 💖

Tired of swiping and shallow connections? Lola is a Tinder alternative for daters ready to skip the games and meet someone who truly fits their vibe. With updated profiles and a focus on quality, Lola connects you with people serious about finding something real. Ready to stop wasting time? Download Lola and take the first step toward a meaningful connection.

FAQs

What is a good bio for a dating profile?

Show who you are with a short, authentic bio that highlights your interests, values, and goals in a fun and engaging way. Add a hint of humor or a memorable detail to make your profile stand out.

How do I look good in a dating profile?

Use clear, natural photos that capture your personality and favorite activities while keeping it confident and real. Make sure to include a mix of solo and action shots that reflect who you are in everyday life.

What not to say on a dating profile?

Skip negativity, overused lines, or too much personal detail. A positive tone and unique tidbits will catch attention and make people want to know more about you.

What is the biggest red flag on Tinder?

Profiles that seem too perfect, generic, or lack depth can signal someone who isn’t being authentic. Trust your instincts if something feels off, and prioritize profiles that feel genuine and relatable.

What gender uses Tinder the most?

Tinder skews male but welcomes users of all genders looking for meaningful connections. Whether you’re seeking friendship, casual dating, or a serious relationship, it offers a diverse user base to explore.

How to write a good dating profile?

Share your passions, hobbies, and what you’re looking for in a story-like way that feels personal and inviting. Focus on being specific -mention a favorite book, place, or hobby to make your profile memorable.

What is a good bio for a dating profile?

A good bio feels real, positive, and relatable, offering a glimpse of your personality without oversharing. Add a personal touch, like a favorite quote or a quirky fact, to make it uniquely yours.

What is considered an attractive dating profile?

Genuine photos, a relatable bio, and a touch of humor or mystery can make your profile stand out. Balance fun details with authenticity to show off who you are while keeping potential matches intrigued.