By Kate Taylor, Resident Relationship Expert, match.com
Take a summery picture
Summer is a great time to look for romance online. Sunlight boosts optimism and positivity, making us feel relaxed and sociable - the ideal mood for dating! Moreover, we're constantly on the move between barbecue and bar, giving us plenty of time to check out potential dates on the move thanks to dating apps.
So, to maximise your chances as the temperature rises, you want to make sure your profile is looking as tempting as possible. Check out my top tips and you might just be more than sun-kissed this summer …
1) Use a Summery Photo
According to research from match.com we are at our most attractive during the summer months, with 73% of members favouring a summer snap over a winter one. So make sure you take advantage of bright photo opportunities in the sun to get those perfect pictures. But don't forget that more and more daters are using their phones and Apple Watches to find other singles, and potential dates will find you more attractive if they can see your face. Women are 35% more likely to attract a date with a headshot, while men's chances increase by 27%. So maximise your profile picture's appeal and switch from a full-bodied shot to a portrait-style photo for your main profile picture.
2) Refresh your Profile
Whilst the heatwave takes a mini hiatus, why don't you spend a little more time sorting out your dating profile? We find profiles that focus on activities and interests do best, so build out the range of things you do and back them up with some great photos. We're constantly changing and picking up new hobbies and interests, so the more you can share with other online daters, the more likely it is you're going to find someone who you have a real connection with.
3) Include Seasonal Interests
You might love to ski, but that isn't helping anyone plan a date with you this summer! Make it easy for a potential partner to imagine sharing the summer with you by playing up your favourite seasonal hobbies, like visiting music festivals, outdoor concerts or markets, surfing, or just lying on the beach. Everyone needs a sunbathing companion! And remember, whatever your summer hobbies are, a picture says a thousand words, so qualify your interests with some great photos.
4) Talk about Travel
Holidays and travel are great topics to discover more about a person. Mention your favourite travel destinations (there's a section just for that in your profile template), and talk about trips you have coming up in the future. With match's app you can update your list of destinations as you go - no matter where you are! Whether your ideal holiday is climbing Machu Picchu, or lying by a pool with a cocktail in hand, there will be someone out there who likes doing exactly the same thing. This is another great way for people to imagine themselves spending time with you.