Cosmo's Guide to Online Dating
By Liesa Goins                                                     previous 1 | 2 | 3  next

Creating the Perfect Profile

For maximum impact, follow this too-tempting-to-resist template.
The best strategy is knowing what not to say. "Women are often too critical of their appearance; this is the time to crow about your best attributes," says Susan Rabin, author of Cyberflirt. Jeanette, 25, learned this the hard way. "The first profile I posted mentioned that I wanted to drop a few pounds," she says. "Once I changed it to say I had an hourglass figure, I got three times as many responses." Also, disclose personal issues with discretion. "Skip talk about exes and physical, emotional and financial challenges," says Trish McDermott, vice president of romance for Match.com. You should get to know him before spelling out any baggage or shortcomings. Don't overwrite -- keep it between 50 and 100 words -- to maintain some mystery and privacy (remember, anyone can read your profile).

Screen Name or Headline
Use this opportunity to intrigue. You'll stand out more with a saucy moniker like Tons o' Fun instead of something neutral like Looking for Love.

Photo
You should include a pic. Match.com reports that users who post a flattering   snap of themselves get eight times more responses.

Opening Line
Begin with a brief physical description like "Fit, all-American blonde" or "Ultrafeminine, exotic-looking brunette." It's key to paint a vivid picture of the whole you. It can conjure up an image that will hook guys quickly.

Your Unique Attributes
This reveals something specific about your personality that helps him understand you.

A Little More Info
It's important to reveal character traits but not too much personal information. This gives the reader a clear idea of your interests without dumping a laundry list on him.

Make Your Demands
Being up-front about what you want in a man will weed out some inappropriate applicants. Plus, mentioning movies, music and other hobbies gives guys a clear idea of what you may have in common.

What It's Like to Date You
An example of how you spend your weekends shows the action-oriented male mind how he fits your list. Plus, since men love to teach you what they know, listing something you hope to learn or improve on will appeal to his alpha-male side.

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