Looking to get More Responses to your Profile?

If you've joined an online dating site and aren't getting many responses, you may be wondering why. Most of the time, there are easy fixes to make to attract more attention. You just have to be aware of how you're coming across to people who don't know anything about you. Following are some basic tips to make sure you're getting the best results possible.

Post a photo. If you don't post a picture, most online daters will assume the worst: that you're hiding something, whether it's a spouse, girlfriend, or your looks. Many make it a criteria to never respond to someone who doesn't post a picture. If you aren't sure about what photo to use, ask a friend to help you. It's better to post a bad picture than no picture at all.

Make sure it's current. Speaking of photos, don't post any that are more than a year old. If it's grainy, get rid of it. Your matches can tell that it's probably an older picture. Your photo must reflect who you are now, not who you were 10 years ago. Your dates will find out soon enough, so it's better to be honest upfront.

Don't stalk...wait for a response. When you email someone you find attractive and are anxious to get a response, don't drive yourself crazy by checking your Inbox every 15 minutes. And don't send a follow-up email asking why he/she didn't respond after only a day. Give her some time, and go on with your search. If she's interested, she'll respond, and if not, move on to the next.

Update your profile more often. The more you visit your online dating profile and update it, the more searchable you become. When you don't check in for days at a time, you miss opportunities. The more you check in, users can see you're active and will be more inclined to pursue meeting you.

Be creative. Many online daters make the mistake of trying to look like everyone else in terms of how "datable" they are, instead of writing about what sets them apart. Rather than writing about how you enjoy movies and long walks on the beach, show your sense of humor or something unique, like your quest for finding the perfect chocolate pie. In other words, be creative and let your personality shine through.

Don't be negative. If your profile lists the kinds of people you don't want to date, whether it's the gold-diggers, drama queens, players, or cheapskates, please don't include this in your profile. First, nobody is going to tell you that's who they are, and second, you usually wind up attracting them anyway by advertising what you don't want. Instead, focus on the attributes you DO want in a partner.