Depending on which research you believe, the photo represents anywhere from 50 to 90 percent of your first impression. Omitting photos also creates a first impression: it may signal you have something to hide or that you’re not proud of the way you look.
Might someone confuse your photos with a magazine spread? If so, it’s possible your photos look too good. Prospects will begin to wonder if the real-life version of you will look anything like the model depicted in the profile.
Sure, you’re anxious to get online and surf for prospects. That doesn’t mean you should rush your profile and fill in the first thing that comes to your mind. If your profile reads like everyone else’s, it simply won’t stand out from the crowd.
In the opening paragraph you detail your desire for a serious relationship. But later in the profile you rave about the benefits of casual dating. Contradicting yourself confuses prospects and makes them believe you have no idea what you want.
Maybe you want to send the message that you’re a social creature. Unfortunately, prospects will automatically compare you to the other people in the photo. And they might decide they’d rather date your friend than you.
We can all tell when a photo used to have someone next to you. If the best photo you ever took happens to have your ex in the picture, then do yourself a favor and post your second best photo.
It’s tempting to tell people what you think they want to hear. You might even think you’ll score more prospects that way. But sooner or later you’ll get found out and develop a negative reputation online.
We all know a sense of humor goes a long way in making a great impression. But jokes that offend will backfire and get you canceled out right away. Run your profile humor past a trusted friend to make sure it serves the right purpose.