"Gorgeous,
buff, world-traveling, gourmet-cooking, independently wealthy,
philanthropic, affectionate, commitment-minded and otherwise
flawless Ph.D. seeks same."
There. See how simple that was?
This is how profiles work. Or would, if we all were so perfect. The
rest of us need just a little help. If you're struggling to create a
new profile or reinvent your old one, consider our 12 tips to make
your profile sizzle:
Be upbeat
From the headline to the last sentence, make sure you sound like
someone who would be fun to know. Let us know from the beginning how
lucky we are to have found you!
Be positive
Avoid negative statements when you present your qualities and those
you seek in a match. Talk about your likes rather than your
dislikes.
Excite us
Don't just spell out a laundry list of your interests. Tell us what
grabs you and why.
Be revealing
The values that matter most to you probably are most important to
your soul mate, too. Put them out there so the two of you will
recognize each other right away.
Be honest
Current photos; accurate descriptions of your height, body type,
smoking and drinking habits and marital status will attract someone
to the real you—not a fantasy you can't deliver.
Be realistic
Need to drop ten pounds? Be open to dating someone who does, too.
Remember the story about the king who searched the world for the
perfect woman, only to be rejected by her. She was looking for the
perfect man!
Be kind
Remember, there's no telling who will come along to steal your
heart. A welcoming profile that makes you seem accessible and open
to the unexpected could open up a world of new contacts to
you—including the one contact you've been waiting for.
Make us laugh
Your profile isn't a stand-up comedy routine. But if you can get a
laugh, or at least a smile, out of those who read it, you're likely
to get a response, too.
Generate some heat
Sure, it's a little early to reveal your every fantasy. But by
showing your humor, your romantic side and your personal warmth, you
can be sexy on-screen.
Go for quality
Your qualities, that is. As opposed to your possessions. That'll
increase your odds of finding someone who appreciates a good
listener, a kind heart and knockout kisses. Or do you prefer someone
who most appreciates you for your salary and stash of frequent flier
miles?
Be an individual
Nobody (seriously, nobody) will read your profile and say, "Finally!
Someone else who likes walks on the beach and is comfortable in
jeans or evening wear!"
Post a photo
Yeah, yeah. We're all shallow. Get over it—people like to connect a
face with the words. That's why profiles with photos get 15 times
more interest than those without one. And make it a well-focused,
close-up shot so that smile and those eyes don't escape anyone's
attention!