Apps like Tinder and Hinge have revolutionised the dating world, opening us up to a wider pool of potential suitors. Around one in 10 UK online adults use dating services, according to recent data from Ofcom.
More choice doesn’t always equal greater success, though. It’s common for singletons to suffer from dating app burnout, with endless swiping and a lack of connection.
Maybe you’re struggling to match with someone you like or finding the spark runs cold the second you meet in person. Jacob Lucas, dating expert and author of Her Dating Coach, says app success is largely down to luck.
Jacob told FruitySlots.com: “Dating apps are a hot topic of discussion when people talk about their love lives these days. We’ve all heard horror stories but I’ve spoken to many people who have met the love of their lives.
“There is an element of luck when it comes to dating apps, and I believe we can create our own. And I’ve discovered some great tips that will drastically improve your chances of finding love.”
Jacob has outlined what he considers to be the best ways to better your fortune on dating apps.
Use multiple apps
Finding a connection can feel like a needle in a haystack and if you’re only on one app, you may be looking in the wrong haystack. Go on three apps and you’ve tripled your chances of success. You just need 15 minutes out of your day for a swipe session and you will build up a bank of suitors. Cast your net far and wide and see what you catch.
Don’t ignore the signs of a catfish
Catfishing is common with online dating, but there easy ways to spot one:
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They always have an excuse as to why they can’t meet up with you
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They refuse to do a video call with you
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They refuse to tell you their social media even though you’ve been talking for a while
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Inconsistent stories and they forget details they told you about their lives
“If you come across anyone exhibiting these types of behaviours, I suggest you pull away instantly,” Jacob said.
Lead with a good opener
Are you struggling to spark up a conversation? A good opener can be the key to getting things flowing.
Follow these simple rules to improve the probability of getting a message back:
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Avoid boring openers such as ‘Hey’ or ‘How are you?’ They’ve probably heard these openers many times before, and it can become boring and uninspiring.
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Try an opinion opener. Ask them for their view on something. Where they love to travel or what they think is the most overrated meal. People like to feel that their opinion is heard, and you can be as creative as you like.
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Comment on something on their profile. If they include a pet in their profile, say how cute they look.
Be picture perfect
First impressions count on dating apps, and often the first thing people notice are photos. The competition out there is fierce, so you need to post your best pictures. Here’s the ideal snaps you should include on your profile.
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Your profile picture. This needs to be a picture of you and only you. And you need to look as good as possible.
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An activity picture. This will make you seem more interesting and attract people with similar interests.
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A group photo. This shows you are friendly, sociable and approachable.
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Use as many pictures as the app allows you. This will give people more chances to see different sides of you.
Have your dating profile and social media work together
Putting your social media handle in your bio can improve your chances on a dating app. Due to the high volume of people on apps, someone may come across your profile and find you attractive but you don’t see them.
If you have your social media handle on your profile, they may be able to find you and slide into your DMs. Also, dating apps allow a minimal amount of info, whereas your social media profile paints a clearer picture of who you are.
A good bio makes a big difference
If someone is unsure of your pictures, a good bio can sway their decision in your favour.
Here are a few tips to help your bio look as good as possible:
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Keep it positive. People are on the apps to have fun, not to have someone ruin their vibe.
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Tell them a little bit about yourself. For example, what you do for work, your hobbies etc.
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Give them an easy opener, as you will get more people messaging you first. For example, at the end of your bio put something like, ‘I love to laugh, tell me your best joke and I’ll rate it out of 10.’
Let people know exactly what you’re looking for
Whether you’re looking for a relationship or something casual, let people know. Make things clear from the get-go, and it avoids awkward conversations. It’s crucial to set dating intentions for yourself and make them clear to others.