Presenting yourself in the best possible light can bring out the worst in us - either we try too hard and make ourselves into super human emotionally tough and fabulously gifted demi-gods, or we shoot too low and slide down the slippery road of "if you're really interested you can take the time to get to know me" syndrome.
In the modern world we don't often have a lot of time to make a great first impression.
Preparation is essential.
Put pen to paper - and write a great personal description. Be honest and highlight your best traits and mimimize your not so great ones.
1. Get Your Best Mug Shot - And Say Cheese
It makes you wonder what folks were thinking when they put their photos up on the dating sites.
You have been warned : I advise not taking a photograph of yourself if you are looking like a mess, tired, hung over, or not in a great mood.
Make your profile stand out a mile with good natural lighting, colour and style. I recommend you with a big smile on your head and shoulders shot, colorful clothes or a bright colorful background.
2. Stay Clear of 'Personal Ad' Lingo
Have you ever read these lovelies : "great personality", "wonderful woman", "loves eating out"
Yawn - Yawn
The details are what will bring your profile to life.
Be memorable and multi-dimentional, by giving some specifics about yourself to your audience. This allows their imaginations to picture you in all your glory.
3. Rub Your Aladin's Lamp and State Your Wishes
If you're thinking that your ideal mate will 'sense' a connection when replying - take a reality check. It's far better to be clear about what we would like, and also what we do not want in a potential suitor. Your replies will be more targetted and of a higher quality.
If your imaging a mate like yourself - one in which you're both singing from the same hymm sheet - have the same desires, well mention that in your profile.
Don't risk being too general and grey or you will get far too many unsuitable responses.
4. Be True to Form
As tempting as it sounds, do not exaggerate yourself to epic proportions. You are not a movie script.
Often hype is most 'in your face' when it comes to describing appearance. If you haven't added your photo (and I can't think why not) then describing yourself as a very attractive buff builder is sure to disappoint a few fair damsels - firstly because you have not added a photo (hmmm) and secondly attraction is a personal thing.
Your mother may be singing your praises, but a "great person", one who "you will not regret meeting" with a "fantastic personality" is so 80's darling.
Reality check required.
5. Don't Forget The Fundamentals
The foundations of a new friendship or relationship start with the basics. Be honest and mention your situation - i.e. single, divorced, widowed, kids, pets, age, education, job and general location. These are the main building blocks to creating your bridge to the other party.
I don't really have to say it - but I will anyway. For your safety, do not reveal anything specifc about yourself.
6. Paint Your Colorful World
Don't you just love a person on a mission ? Any mission. With fire, passion and conviction in the mind and hearts.
Why do we like them? Because they inspire us and because we can identify some trait, idea or concept with them.
Discover the 'Theme of Your Life'. Write a great profile that reflects that in all it's many variations.
Have a great big brain dump. Note all the weird and wonderful things that make You - You. Note your interests, talents, great smile, kindness, your passions and inspiration.
E.G. Soulful and Sensitive Writer in Seattle, Traveller and 'Mean Piano Player'
7. Just Go For It
Keep it simple, and you can't go wrong.
Have fun and keep in light. Be smart and be aware, but don't forget to let go and find the lessons in your experience. Learn and grow. - 16463
In the modern world we don't often have a lot of time to make a great first impression.
Preparation is essential.
Put pen to paper - and write a great personal description. Be honest and highlight your best traits and mimimize your not so great ones.
1. Get Your Best Mug Shot - And Say Cheese
It makes you wonder what folks were thinking when they put their photos up on the dating sites.
You have been warned : I advise not taking a photograph of yourself if you are looking like a mess, tired, hung over, or not in a great mood.
Make your profile stand out a mile with good natural lighting, colour and style. I recommend you with a big smile on your head and shoulders shot, colorful clothes or a bright colorful background.
2. Stay Clear of 'Personal Ad' Lingo
Have you ever read these lovelies : "great personality", "wonderful woman", "loves eating out"
Yawn - Yawn
The details are what will bring your profile to life.
Be memorable and multi-dimentional, by giving some specifics about yourself to your audience. This allows their imaginations to picture you in all your glory.
3. Rub Your Aladin's Lamp and State Your Wishes
If you're thinking that your ideal mate will 'sense' a connection when replying - take a reality check. It's far better to be clear about what we would like, and also what we do not want in a potential suitor. Your replies will be more targetted and of a higher quality.
If your imaging a mate like yourself - one in which you're both singing from the same hymm sheet - have the same desires, well mention that in your profile.
Don't risk being too general and grey or you will get far too many unsuitable responses.
4. Be True to Form
As tempting as it sounds, do not exaggerate yourself to epic proportions. You are not a movie script.
Often hype is most 'in your face' when it comes to describing appearance. If you haven't added your photo (and I can't think why not) then describing yourself as a very attractive buff builder is sure to disappoint a few fair damsels - firstly because you have not added a photo (hmmm) and secondly attraction is a personal thing.
Your mother may be singing your praises, but a "great person", one who "you will not regret meeting" with a "fantastic personality" is so 80's darling.
Reality check required.
5. Don't Forget The Fundamentals
The foundations of a new friendship or relationship start with the basics. Be honest and mention your situation - i.e. single, divorced, widowed, kids, pets, age, education, job and general location. These are the main building blocks to creating your bridge to the other party.
I don't really have to say it - but I will anyway. For your safety, do not reveal anything specifc about yourself.
6. Paint Your Colorful World
Don't you just love a person on a mission ? Any mission. With fire, passion and conviction in the mind and hearts.
Why do we like them? Because they inspire us and because we can identify some trait, idea or concept with them.
Discover the 'Theme of Your Life'. Write a great profile that reflects that in all it's many variations.
Have a great big brain dump. Note all the weird and wonderful things that make You - You. Note your interests, talents, great smile, kindness, your passions and inspiration.
E.G. Soulful and Sensitive Writer in Seattle, Traveller and 'Mean Piano Player'
7. Just Go For It
Keep it simple, and you can't go wrong.
Have fun and keep in light. Be smart and be aware, but don't forget to let go and find the lessons in your experience. Learn and grow. - 16463
About the Author:
Hi I'm Rebecca Adams - and i've been giving relationship tips to singles and couples for 12 years. Whether your just starting a relationship, walking the dating minefield, or happily or unhappily married - there's something for you! Visit us and pick up your free Gift today : The 8 Keys to Having a Great Relationship Experience -- And Why it All Starts With YOU!