Dave's Guide to Online Dating (For Gals) - Part 2

As many of you already know, I have been on the online dating scene for a while now.  In my time doing this, I have noticed a few alarming trends which I think need to be addressed.  I detailed most of these in my original post, but here are a couple new ones I think are worth noting.

1.  If you're insecure...

Please ladies, never include these words in your profile.  Ever.  There is no problem with you wanting a confident guy who is secure with himself, but by specifically noting your dislike of insecurity, you can create a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Someone may start reading your profile with great confidence, and by the time he gets to the 'if you're insecure' clause, he may start to question this very same confidence.  In short, it's not nice to make these sort of assumptions, and might actually sabotage your own efforts.

2.  Avoid confusion

If you are the type that has a lot of group photos on your profile, make sure that we know which one you are.  Remember, to someone who has never seen you before, different hairstyles and outfits can be slightly confusing, especially when there's not a photo of you by yourself.  It's probably a good idea to label those photos so you're not mistaken for your best friend, right?

3.  You can write anything you want to

Starting by saying you're no good at filling these things out is not only cliché, but it also shows a possible lack of confidence.  It also leads to very pedestrian profiles, usually with three lines (or less) which most people won't look twice at.  It's important to remember that you can put whatever you like into that box for people to read.  If you don't like talking about yourself, you really don't have to.  Write a little story, tell a joke, or list some favourite quotes or song lyrics.  Showing your personality is the most important part here, and how you do that is entirely up to you.   

4.  Smile!

While the sad face does work for a small selection of adorable girls, for most, it's not as attractive as you might think.  I understand the intent behind it, but it doesn't often work that well.  Instead, use photos of yourself having fun and smiling, and you'll get more positive responses.  

I hope that this little guide was useful to someone, and didn't make me look mean.