If only finding that special person online was a matter of running a Google search. The engine would return personal ad profiles with the key words to your specifications.
But finding “the one” online necessitates sifting through unattractive mug shots, grammatically incorrect personal ads and a flurry of futile chat rooms.
Online dating would be more beneficial for all if everyone included the following elements in their personal ads:
- An attention grabbing first sentence
- A succinct yet compelling ad
- 98.5 percent honesty
- Humor
Let’s analyze the following profile for truth and dating marketability:
"I'm a regular Joe. I love making money, but I need someone to spend it on. I'm not looking for sex -- just a simple companion to see and experience the world. Please don't judge my writing because I'm only good with numbers. I just want someone to hang out with. I'm not bad on the eyes -- but I don't care to post my photo because I’m a millionaire. I thought that I would give this online dating thing a try -- since I'm tired of meeting women in the bar."
Even without a photo, the above profile could trigger responses. The reason the above profile is effective is because it uses buzz words like money, experience the world (travel) and no sex. The authenticity of the personal ad is questionable because most millionaires would not post a profile revealing their financial status. Secondly, most wealthy people are not seeking love in a “bar.”
"I’m looking for a Heidi Klum look-a-like to overlook my morbid obesity. I desire a woman who cooks, cleans and is open-minded to my demands. My idea of a good time is popping in a DVD and grabbing some fast food."
As candid as the above profile is, it will not attract many female contenders. Since the personal ad focuses on his specifications versus the benefits of contacting him, there is no motivation for anyone to respond.
The Before Profile
"I’m shy but open up rapidly. I have a 3-year old daughter. She keeps me busy and hopping. My friends consider me to be funny, outgoing, and a prankster. I’m looking for someone who is not afraid to be herself and enjoys cutting loose now and then."
The After Profile
"Once you get past my shyness, you will discover a fun-loving, mischievous, gent. When I’m not running my business, I’m chasing my 3-year old daughter around the house. I’m looking for someone who appreciates the outdoors but likes to catch a flick every now and then. Because my friends consider me “funny,” I’m looking for a girl who shares my friend’s perspective. Even if you don’t have a sense of humor, send me a chat."
The above profile makeover is effective. The first sentence is an attention grabber because it reveals opposite personality traits: shyness and fun-loving. The relevant honesty detailed in the second sentence conjures the image of a hardworking guy. His third sentence does not reveal any overly zealous dating prerequisites. The closing sentence calls the recipient to action to contact him.
