Just as any single female, male, couple, or any other combination in search of some deserving adult friendships, you've perused the reviews and surfed the net like Kelly Slater and decided: “Alright, it's time to put up a profile.” Sounds easy enough- right? Faithfully you check your profile's inbox yet still- nothing. Nada. Zilch. You religiously keep yourself ‘logged in' but still- nothing. So, what happened? Before deleting your profile and throwing in the towel, here are a couple of profile pointers to help you make the most of your online experience.
TRIAL vs. PAID
Many sites allow a trial membership, which is a great marketing ploy. Trial memberships allow you to get a ‘taste' of the site usually with several restrictions. The downside of a trial membership is that if you're serious about meeting and connecting with other members it's possible you may not until you pull out the plastic and become a paid member. Being a member at one time or another on numerous sites, it became apparent that many paid members ‘turn off' their profiles to “block” trial members simply to avoid the curious and uncertain. Let's face it- we all join for the same purpose- to meet and connect. Upgrading to a paid membership not only grants you full access to the sites functions but it also shows that you are serious about your intentions- or at least in the eyes of the other members.
PICTURES
They say a picture says a million words- and damn it who ever ‘they' are, knew what the hell they were talking about. First and foremost- you certainly do not need to be a super model. Most of the population isn't, so relax. Yet, if the picture you post is from your ‘rookie' years, 15 years ago or even 15 pounds ago- you're setting yourself up for some disappointing encounters. No one wants to walk into a situation where the other person says, “You don't look like your profile.” The disappointment is then revealed on their face- and now you're on the receiving end of a predictable let down. Not cool.
So, with that said- your profile pictures should represent you. Who you are today and what you look like. Many people are not comfortable posting facial pictures on the inter-net, which is totally understandable. Although you should know if you do not have face pictures on your profile you'll be asked often for them. Many sites allow you to post ‘private picture galleries' where you can control who has access to view them. Private galleries are the perfect place to keep facial pictures if you're concerned about others seeing your face.
Clear pictures are also key. No one really wants to try and decipher what you may look like from that fuzzy cell phone picture. Being in the age of digital photography and with easy to use editing software programs like iPhoto-taking pictures and uploading them can be done with ease. You also don't have the hassle of long waits on printing or wasted film.
Think about being a little creative with that digital camera as well. We're not talking about close ups of genitalia- we're talking about changes of lighting, scenery etc. Speaking of scenery, be mindful where you are taking your photos. Nothing is a bigger turn off than seeing a sink full of dirty dishes or a cluttered room with dirty gym socks in the background. Get creative and artsy with your flicks. Profiles with pictures get far more traffic than those that don't. Besides, for some, picture taking is great foreplay.
PROFILE CONTENT
For Pete's sake say something! Far too often people say the same things over and over again. “We are fun, happy loving couple- blah blah blah” Or a profile will have simple 2 word answers. So, don't sound ‘manufactured' or like a caveman. Tell a little about yourself. You don't have to write a book or divulge your social security number. Just give you reader a glimpse of who you are, your personality, your interest and most importantly what you're looking for. Think of what you write as your ‘advertisement'.
Remember your profile is just that: YOUR PROFILE. This is what others see to decide if they would like to chat with you further and possibly connect. Put your best foot forward. Chances are, not only are you paying for your membership, you and everyone else on the site are there for the same purpose- to meet each other. With a little time, minimal effort and a lot of creativity you'll be well on your way to making some great connections.
Be Well. Be You.
Our friends Lola & Devon are the owners of:
HedoOnline.com
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