Deciding what to include in your online dating profile is not easy. First, you have to figure out what you want to say about yourself, and then you need to figure out how to say it in a unique and engaging way. Talk about pressure! As the Managing Editor for Spark Networks, owner and operator of JDate.com, the leading online community for Jewish singles and ChristianMingle.com, the largest and fastest growing online community for Christian singles, I've seen it all when it comes to online dating profiles -- the good, the bad, and the "why would you say that?!"
Since your profile is the very first impression you give online, it's important to make sure you use the space wisely! Write about yourself by answering fun and intriguing questions such as: What do you like to do in your free time? What are your greatest achievements? What is the one book you can read over and over again? Start with these and then share more about your personal story. However, just as important as what to include in your online dating profile is what not to include. Here are 10 "don'ts" to avoid putting in your online profile:
- Anything Negative. If anything in your online profile comes off as a complaint, criticism, or grievance (i.e. "I hate country music," "Cat lovers need not apply," or "No drama, please!"), then you need to eradicate it ASAP. Your matches want to hear about the activities you like to do, so focus on those!