How to Get More Matches: 7 Profile Tips from Dating Experts

Dating app algorithms reward complete, active profiles. The more effort you put in, the more the algorithm shows you to quality matches. Here is what actually works.

Tip 1: Your first photo matters most. Use a clear, well-lit headshot where you are smiling and looking at the camera. No sunglasses, no group photos, no car selfies. Tip 2: Show variety in your photos. Include one full-body photo, one doing an activity, one social photo with friends, and one dressed up.

Tip 3: Write a bio that invites conversation. Bad: "Just ask." Good: "Coffee snob, terrible dancer, will argue that pineapple belongs on pizza." Give people something to message you about. Tip 4: Be specific about what you want. "Looking for someone to explore the city's food scene" is better than "looking for my person."

Tip 5: Update your profile regularly. Apps boost recently-edited profiles in the algorithm. Change a photo or update your bio every 2 weeks. Tip 6: Use all available prompts. On Hinge and Bumble, fill out every prompt. Empty fields signal low effort.

Tip 7: Be honest about what you want. If you want casual, say casual. If you want a relationship, say that. Mismatched expectations waste everyone's time.