Helen Fisher, PhD

Profile Do’s & Don’ts


DO craft a clever username. Sure, you could be Bill1031…lots of people could. Instead, try for something catchier and more descriptive of your interests and outlook, such as BBQKing or MidwestSurfer.

DO make those first few words of your headline count. On search pages, only the first four to six words or so of your headline will show, so pack good information into that space. Rather than, “Hey, nice to meet you. I’m a single father who loves kayaking…” try, “Kayaking single-dad hopes to meet…”

DO grab attention. You know that saying, you only get one chance to create a great first impression. So start with a bang: Consider using a quote, lyric, or even the opening line of your favorite joke. Get creative and have fun—you’ll connect with people who share your sensibility.

DO show off your personality with specifics. Showing works better than telling. Why say you’re a “nice guy” when you could write “I’m a lawyer who rescues stray cats, and I’m seeking a similarly kind-hearted companion”?  

DO say who you’re looking for. Of course, you want to talk about yourself. But also be sure to describe the kind of person you’re looking for. Don’t only mention activities you enjoy. Also spell out the traits you seek in a romantic partner.

DO consult your friends Nobody’s more honest—or knows you better—than your best friends. So, why not ask them how they’d describe you to a potential mate and use that insight?

DO give people a reason to e-mail you Try asking a question – where to get the best burritos in town, for instance. Or keep it current – mention your opinion of a movie or concert you went to last weekend, and see what others have to say about it.


DO check out the competition.  Go ahead and see how others are describing themselves. Read profiles, and tune in to what works and what doesn’t. 

DO proofread and spell-check. It’s not just teachers who look for misspelled words. Lots of Match.com members will skip a profile with typos because it makes you seem like you don’t care enough.

DON’T use clichés. “Prince Charming paging girl next door” “I love movies, eating out, and a good sunset.” Who doesn’t? Instead, aim to say something no one else can – that’s when the real you is coming through.

DON’T unpack your baggage. Your profile isn’t the place to complain about your exes or list all your dating deal-breakers. Instead, focus on the positive – and the future. There’ll be plenty of time to talk about your past once you’re involved with someone. 

DON’T leave a lot blank.  Especially the “about me” space. If you do, you’re telling potential partners that you’re unsure of what you want, which doesn’t bode well for a serious relationship. 

DON’T rely on lists. A string of adjectives – “kind, honest, generous, caring, creative, smart, good-natured, intense except when laid-back” – well, it just doesn’t add the kind of detail that furthers your cause. 

DON’T include off-Match.com contact info In order to keep everyone safe, only communicate through the talkmatch.com email account that we provide. Never include direct contact information in your initial email. 

DON’T use offensive language We hope it goes without saying, but we simply won’t post any profile that contains racism, abusive language, profanity, overtly sexual terms, references to illegal activities or anything else we believe crosses the line.