Contributed by: Jet on Saturday, July 03 2010 @ 08:31 am
Last modified on
For many people who use online dating sites, a long-term relationship is the ultimate goal. Often, this involves cohabitation at some point, so it might seem logical to some to address any associated issues right from the very beginning. In some cases, this is true; if you're deathly allergic to cats, for example, this would affect you from the very first date. In most other cases, however, bring up cohabitation issues can come off as jumping the gun at best, and just plain creepy at worst.
I've seen some profiles that seem more like a resume for housekeeping work or an arranged marriage than someone looking for a new friend. “I love being a keeper at home! I can't wait to have children! I'm really skilled in sewing!” This sort of thing is not limited to women, by the way. Not only have I spotted men looking for just that sort of woman, I've also seen them offering up their own skills that might be useful “around the house.”
Other profiles get into the nitty-gritty of everyday life right off the bat, or seemingly advertise their great location or spacious apartment. Usually I understand what the writer was trying to say – maybe that they have room in their life for someone else, or that they're happy with their life, or that they're trying to give a glimpse into a typical day. However, it comes off more as a listing looking for a roommate than a significant other.
When you're constructing your profile, try not to think much further ahead than the dating stage – it could subconsciously influence your writing. Remember, you're looking for a potential friend, first and foremost – if there's chemistry, the rest of the story will practically write itself. Thus, focus on the hard part – getting to that first meeting. If it's not going to affect every aspect of your dating life – like an allergy, or an unusual diet – the everyday stuff can always wait 'til later.