In today’s world, online dating has become the norm. Whether you’re swiping on Tinder, scrolling through Bumble, or browsing profiles on Hinge, getting matches is the first step to meeting someone new. But what happens when you’re not getting as many matches as you’d like? It’s easy to feel discouraged, but don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are plenty of ways to change your luck.
So, if you’re wondering how to get more matches, keep reading! In this guide, I’m going to share some practical, effective, and easy-to-implement tips to help you stand out and maximize your chances of getting noticed on dating apps.
1. Optimize Your Profile Picture
Your profile picture is the first thing people see, and it’s the most important factor in whether or not you get a match. It’s like your first impression—so you want it to count.
Why Your Picture Matters
In the world of online dating, first impressions are everything. A great profile picture makes someone stop and think, “Hey, I want to learn more about this person.” You want to make sure your photo represents you in the best light possible.
Tips for Choosing the Best Profile Picture:
- Choose High-Quality Photos: No blurry or pixelated images, please! A clear, high-resolution photo is a must.
- Smile!: A warm, genuine smile makes you more approachable and inviting. No one wants to match with someone who looks like they’re angry or uninterested.
- Avoid Group Photos: It can be confusing for potential matches to figure out which person you are. Stick to solo shots, at least for the main photo.
- Show Your Personality: If you’re into hiking, post a picture of you on a hike. If you love traveling, share a photo from one of your trips. This not only shows what you love but also gives people a reason to start a conversation with you.
- Dress Well: You don’t have to be in a suit and tie, but clean and put-together attire always helps. Dress for the vibe you want to attract.
2. Craft an Attention-Grabbing Bio
Your bio is your chance to showcase your personality and interests. It’s where you can go beyond the surface and show who you really are. A well-written bio can be the difference between someone swiping left or right.
Tips for Writing a Winning Bio:
- Keep It Concise: You don’t need to write a novel, but you want to give enough information to spark interest. Keep it lighthearted and interesting, but not too much. A couple of sentences or short paragraphs will do.
- Highlight Your Interests: Mention some hobbies or things you’re passionate about. Whether it’s cooking, photography, playing an instrument, or traveling, letting people know what you like will help you connect with people who have similar interests.
- Be Authentic: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. People appreciate honesty and authenticity, so showcase the real you.
- Use Humor: A funny or witty bio can make you stand out. Humor is one of the best ways to break the ice and get someone to click on your profile.
- Avoid Clichés: Skip the typical “Just here to meet someone special” or “Looking for my soulmate” lines. They’re overused and don’t add much value to your profile. Be creative and try to say something unique!
Example Bio:
“Coffee lover ☕. Amateur photographer 📸. Always up for trying new food spots 🍣. Looking for someone to join me on spontaneous adventures and share a few laughs along the way!”
This type of bio shows personality and interests and sets the stage for a fun conversation.
3. Be Active and Consistent
It’s no surprise that online dating apps reward activity. The more you engage with the app, the more likely you are to show up in other people’s recommended matches. But there’s more to it than just swiping left or right.
How Being Active Helps:
- Boosts Visibility: Many dating apps use algorithms that prioritize active users. The more you swipe, the more your profile is shown to others.
- Sends a Signal of Interest: If you’re active on the app, people are more likely to think you’re genuinely interested in meeting someone. Being consistent shows that you’re serious about finding a match.
- Quick Responses: Once you match with someone, don’t leave them hanging for days. Responding quickly shows that you’re interested and keeps the conversation going. Procrastination leads to lost opportunities.
How to Be More Active:
- Set a time each day to log in, whether it’s once in the morning or after work, and swipe or message.
- Update your profile regularly. Changing up your bio or profile pictures every now and then keeps things fresh and exciting.
4. Make the First Move
Once you’ve matched with someone, it’s time to take the reins. The first message is your chance to make a lasting impression, so don’t just send a generic “Hey.” It’s unlikely to grab attention.
Tips for Crafting a Killer Opening Message:
- Personalize It: Reference something specific from their profile. If they mention they love hiking, ask about their favorite trail or destination.
- Be Playful or Fun: A lighthearted, fun question is always better than a bland “What’s up?” A playful approach can spark interest. For example, “If we were to go on a pizza date, what toppings are a must-have?”
- Keep It Short and Sweet: No one wants to read a paragraph as an opening message. Keep it casual and to the point.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Questions that require more than a yes or no answer encourage conversation. For instance, “What’s your go-to weekend activity?” or “What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever traveled to?”
Example of a Good First Message:
“Hey [Name], I see you’re into hiking! Have you ever hiked to the top of [local trail]? It’s on my bucket list!”
This shows you’ve taken the time to read their profile and that you share a mutual interest.
5. Use the Right Dating Apps
Not all dating apps are created equal, and not all apps are suited for everyone. Different platforms attract different kinds of people, so choosing the right one can make all the difference in getting more matches.
Which Apps Are Best for You?
- Tinder: If you’re looking for something casual or a quick connection, Tinder’s swipe-based platform is perfect. It’s easy to use, but since it’s fast-paced, it’s important to have a well-crafted profile to stand out.
- Bumble: On Bumble, women make the first move, which can lead to more genuine interactions. If you’re someone who enjoys taking the lead, this app may be for you.
- Hinge: Hinge is designed to be deleted, meaning it’s ideal for people looking for something more serious. If you’re in it for long-term connections, you might have better luck here.
- OkCupid: With detailed questionnaires and a more personalized approach, OkCupid is a great choice if you’re looking for something deeper and more meaningful.
Pro Tip:
You don’t have to stick to just one app. If you’re serious about finding a match, try different platforms to increase your visibility and meet different types of people.
6. Be Patient and Stay Positive
One of the most important things to remember when trying to get more matches is patience. It can take time to find the right person, and you may not get a match every time you swipe. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t work out immediately.
Why Patience Is Key:
- Not Everyone Will Be a Perfect Match: Not every person you match with will be the right fit. It’s important to keep your options open and not get too attached to one profile.
- Persistence Pays Off: The more you engage with the app, the more likely you are to find someone you click with. Keep refining your profile, keep swiping, and don’t let rejections get you down.
Keep a Positive Mindset:
If you have a positive, open-minded approach to online dating, it’ll not only make the process more enjoyable but will also attract like-minded individuals. Confidence is attractive, so believe in yourself and your worth.
Conclusion
Getting more matches on dating apps is about more than just swiping right—it’s about presenting your best self and making meaningful connections. From optimizing your profile and being active to making the first move and choosing the right app, there are several strategies that can help boost your chances.