I’ve been selecting excerpts from random online dating profiles and critiquing them.
This is the last one for this week however.
Instead, my weekend blog will provide insight on online dating in general. It will also be more incisive.
From the online dating profile of a 39-year old woman
I have a natural beauty to myself. I do my best to keep myself happy and healthy and I work with what god gave me…. My smile and inner beauty would be my best feature.
When people are sometimes asked to describe me, the term “Sexy” is often used. I’ve been told that I’m smart, beautiful and sensitive, although I also tend to be a bit modest too.
I make first impressions quickly and generally do not waiver from my initial conclusion.
My critique
Though this is just an excerpt, it nonetheless captures the essence and I can tell you that there’s no modesty in it at all. There’s a fine line between being confident and coming across as boastful and this woman has crossed over to the latter.
My suggestion is to let anecdotes speak for you because our narratives say a lot about our sense of humor, intelligence and moral character. In addition, when you’ve said a few positives (and you should), you can then sprinkle in a playful “negative”. For instance, if you’re a great cook, add a mention of how you once used sugar instead of salt (or some other mistake).
You can also add the occasional quirk, which can be great. For instance, if you’re talking about all the things and people you love, add something that you don’t like spiders (or something just as lighthearted).
It’s important to put a positive spin on yourself, but you also need to be warm and engaging while you’re doing it.
A final note about writing your online dating profile.
Most people find it hard to write about themselves in a way that’s balanced. On one hand, it’s important to share your qualities and accomplishments. On the other hand, it’s important to do so with finesse.
As such, the best online dating profile tip I can give you is this: let me help you write it. I use all your words and anecdotes so that it’s in your “voice” and true to you, but I also apply solid marketing techniques and good writing so that it makes you stand out.
Check out my online dating profile samples and see for yourself. Better yet, get started by completing the personality questionnaire and then submit your answers to me. You’ll be amazed at what I can do with them.
