13 Best Online Dating Tips To Set You Up For Success

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Online dating has become the new normal for finding relationships. In fact, more than half of couples in recent surveys have met through online means. But just because swiping and texting have replaced meet-cutes at the cafe doesn’t mean dating has gotten easier. If you’ve been on a few apps, you know the struggle: profiles that overpromise and underdeliver, conversations that fizzle out, and the occasional ghosting that leaves you hanging. It’s no wonder people seek online dating tips and online dating advice for that elusive edge.

Whether you’re new to the apps or a seasoned swiper, a few key online dating guidelines can save you a lot of heartache. For men and women alike, these dating tips for online dating cover everything from crafting your profile to keeping your sanity intact. Think of it as some free dating advice from friends who’ve been there. Ready to break your unlucky streak? Here are 13 tried-and-true online dating tips to set you up for success.

Online Dating Tips: 13 Ways To Break The Streak Of Bad Luck

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Online dating can feel like a mix of excitement and frustration. One week you’re matching with interesting people, the next you’re wondering if you’ll ever meet someone worth your time. The truth is, finding meaningful connections online isn’t just about luck; it’s about knowing how to present yourself well, start engaging conversations, and protect your peace along the way.

These 13 online dating tips cover everything from setting up a profile that stands out to handling ghosting without losing confidence. Whether you’re new to these apps and wondering how to start dating or have been swiping for years, these practical, expert-backed strategies will help you navigate the digital dating world with more clarity, confidence, and success.

1. Keep your expectations grounded

how to attract the right match online — The reality might not quite live up to the fantasy

It’s easy to get carried away when a profile ticks all your boxes. But remember, an online dating profile is a curated showcase, not the full picture. People tend to put forward their best photos and most charming tidbits, which means the reality might not quite live up to the fantasy. For example, imagine you spend two weeks chatting with someone who looks amazing on paper. You might start daydreaming that they’re the one before you even meet.

Then, when you finally video call or go on that first date, there’s zero chemistry, or they seem different from what you expected. It’s a common scenario, so don’t feel too crushed. It simply shows why you shouldn’t assume you know someone based solely on their profile. In fact, many folks admit to stretching the truth on dating apps.

One survey found 70% of men had lied about aspects like age, height or career on their profiles.

That “six-foot adventurous entrepreneur” could turn out to be 5’8” and between jobs! So keep your hopes realistic.

Related Reading: Online Dating: 8 Relationship Tips To Make It Work For You

2. Use great profile photos

If you’re serious about online dating, don’t skip the photos. A profile with no picture, or just one vague pic, raises all kinds of red flags. It makes others wonder if you’re a bot, a scammer, or an axe murderer in hiding. You don’t need to look like a supermodel, but you do need to choose the right photos for your dating profile. Here are some profile photo tips:

Include a friendly headshot: Make sure to have at least one clear photo of your face, with a natural smile and no sunglasses. This helps potential dates see the real you
Show your life in action: Add a photo or two of you doing something you love—hiking, cooking, playing with your dog, jamming on guitar—anything that gives a glimpse of your personality. These pictures humanize you to potential matches and act as conversation starters
Skip the odd or misleading pics: Avoid grainy bathroom mirror selfies, group shots where it’s hard to tell who is who, or photos with an ex cropped halfway out of the frame

Think of your profile pictures as your first impression. By following these profile ideas for dating sites, you’ll come across as more open and approachable and far more likely to get right-swipes.

3. Write a profile that pops

how to stand out on dating apps — Make your bio stand out

Your bio or self-description is your chance to shine beyond just your looks. Leaving it blank or sticking to a dull list of cliches is a huge missed opportunity. So, how do you pique interest and show who you really are? Instead of a generic blurb, try these ideas in your bio:

Be specific about your interests: Give a sneak peek into what you love. For example, don’t just say “I like comedy.” Try “I never miss open-mic night at the local comedy club” or “big fan of John Mulaney’s stand-up specials.” If you’re a foodie, mention you’re on a quest to find the best tacos in town. Specifics are more engaging and give people an easy conversation hook
Be honest about your intentions: It’s okay to hint at what you’re looking for. Mention if you’re after a serious relationship, something casual, or just new friends. That said, avoid turning your bio into a shopping list of partner requirements. Nobody likes reading a long list of “must be this, must have that.”
Keep it upbeat and real: A little humour can go a long way, but sarcasm or edgy jokes might misfire without context. You’re talking to strangers who don’t know your tone, so err on the side of friendly and warm

The best profiles give a quick snapshot of who you are, and that includes your hobbies, personality, and what makes you fun to be around. These profile ideas for dating sites can help you stand out from the crowd of one-liner profiles and make someone think, “Hey, this person seems interesting!”

Related Reading: 20 Valuable Tips For A First Date After Meeting Online

4. Be honest and authentic

It should go without saying, but authenticity is a key dating etiquette. Unfortunately, a lot of people still fudge the truth. Using decade-old photos, adding a couple of inches to their height, or pretending to have hobbies they’ve never actually tried. Don’t be that person. One of the classic online dating tips for men is to resist the urge to impress by exaggerating or bragging. And online dating tips for women often stress being upfront about what you want instead of playing “cool girl” with no preferences. Honesty might feel risky, but it builds trust from the get-go.

In fact, when someone discovers you lied in your profile, it’s usually game over. Remember, the goal isn’t to appeal to everyone but to attract someone who likes you for you. So skip the fibs and weird flexes. Be genuine about who you are.

“Many daters get so caught up trying to be what they think others want, they completely lose sight of all they bring to the table.”
—Elan Zavelsky, relationship counselor

5. Make the first message count

A great conversation can spark a connection, but someone has to send that first message. If you’re on Bumble, ladies, that means you! So, what’s the best way to start a conversation on a dating app? Hint: it’s not a dry “hey” or “what’s up?”. Opening with something personal and interesting will get you much farther. Here are a few go-to online dating conversation tips for that first message:

Comment on their profile: People put effort into profiles. Reward that by mentioning something you noticed. For example, if they have a travel photo in Paris, you could say, “I love that pic of you at the Louvre. What was your favorite part of visiting Paris?” or if you see a guitar in the background, “Cool Stratocaster! How long have you been playing?” This shows you actually care about them specifically
Ask open-ended questions: A question that can’t be answered with just “yes” or “no” keeps the convo flowing. It can be playful or thoughtful. “Seen any good movies lately? I need a new recommendation,” is better than “How are you?”. That’s way more engaging than yet another “hey, u up?” message
Keep it light and genuine: You don’t have to craft the perfect one-liner or be a comedian. A sincere compliment followed by a question can work wonders: “Your dog is adorable! How long have you had him?” Be friendly, be yourself, and don’t overthink it. The goal is just to get a back-and-forth going.

Bottom line: put in a tiny bit of effort and thought. When you lead with a question or comment that’s uniquely tailored to that person, you stand out from the crowd of generic greetings. That’s the best way to start a conversation on a dating app on the right foot.

6. Don’t be clingy—Match their communication pace

conversation starters for online dating — Don’t come on to strong

Texting etiquette in dating can be tricky, but it boils down to basic respect and not coming on too strong. You don’t need to play mind games like “wait 2 hours because they took 1 hour.” That’s overthinking it. If you’re interested, it’s fine to text first or text back promptly. However, avoid bombarding your match with messages if they’re not responding at the same rate.

No one wants to feel smothered or love-bombed by a near-stranger. A healthy balance is key. So, check in maybe once a day, have conversations and ask questions, but keep in mind that they have their own life, and they don’t have to be available to you 24/7.

Related Reading: 18 Online Dating Red Flags That Should Not Be Ignored

7. Don’t dump all your past baggage

Talking about past relationships is important, but timing is everything. Bringing up your ex or your dating sob stories too early, like on the first or second date, or in the talking stage, can really kill the vibe. Put yourself in their shoes: it’s hard to get to know you if you’re constantly bringing up an ex. It can make your date wonder if you’re still hung up on the past.

Early on, you two should be building a fun connection, not diving into who cheated on you or how emotionally scarred you are from your last breakup. This doesn’t mean you should lie if the topic comes up. Just don’t volunteer all the gory details right off the bat. A brief, matter-of-fact mention is fine if necessary, but avoid ranting or playing the victim.

8. Take breaks and avoid dating burnout

Using dating apps shouldn’t feel like a miserable chore. If it does, give yourself permission to step away for a bit. It’s easy to feel pressure to keep swiping, but in reality, dating fatigue is real.

One recent survey found about 78% of singles felt exhausted by online dating.

So if you’re feeling jaded, overwhelmed, or just sick of the whole thing, know that you’re not alone. One piece of online relationships advice that often gets overlooked is to prioritize your mental health. There’s no rule that says you must be on dating apps 24/7. Take a week, or a month if you need to, off to recharge. Pursue hobbies, hang with friends, live your life. The matches will still be there when you come back, I promise. In fact, taking a breather can actually improve your outlook and energy when you return, which, in turn, makes you a more engaging person to chat with.

9. Be selective

When you’re online, it might feel like you need to cast a wide net just to increase your odds. But quality matters more than quantity in the long run. Don’t feel obligated to match with or reply to everyone who comes your way. It’s perfectly fine to be a bit selective and focus on quality matches who genuinely intrigue you.

online dating success stories — Quality over quantity

Think of it this way: would you rather have 50 lukewarm conversations that go nowhere, or a few chats with people you actually find interesting? Right. This isn’t Pokémon. You don’t have to “catch ’em all.” In fact, swiping right on literally every profile can backfire. The apps might flag you as a bot or low-quality matcher, and you’ll end up with a feed full of people who may not share your interests or values.

Being selective doesn’t mean having a mile-long checklist of perfection. It just means listening to your gut about who you’d actually enjoy talking to or meeting. Swipe on profiles that catch your eye or mention something you love. Message people who put in the effort to talk to you. You’re allowed to pass on those who don’t. In the end, curating a bit leads to better conversations and dates you’re excited about, which is exactly the point.

Related Reading: The Art Of Online Dating: Navigating The World Of Apps And Websites

10. Prioritize safety and privacy

Nothing kills romance faster than ending up in a dangerous or sketchy situation. That’s why following some basic online dating safety tips is non-negotiable. Yes, it’s mostly common sense, but when you’re caught up in the excitement of a new match, it’s easy to let your guard down. A few reminders:

Guard your personal info: Don’t rush to share things like your home address, last name, workplace, or other identifying details with someone you just met online. Keep conversations on the app or a secondary number. You can use Google Voice or a similar service until you build trust. Scammers, catfish, and creeps can use tidbits of personal info in malicious ways, so less is more in the early stages
Meet in public and tell a friend: For the first few dates, choose a public place where other people are around. Drive yourself or arrange your own transportation so you’re not dependent on them. Let a friend know where you’re going and who you’re meeting, even share your live location if possible
Trust your gut and go slow: If something feels off or the person is pushing your boundaries like pressuring you to meet somewhere secluded, or getting overly sexual too soon, you have every right to hit the pause button. And if during a date you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, don’t hesitate to leave
No risky photos or money exchanges: This should go without saying, but don’t send intimate pictures to someone you haven’t met or even someone you have, unless you’re absolutely sure. Once you send a nude, you lose control over it. It can be saved, shared, or, unfortunately, even used for blackmail. Similarly, never send money or financial info to an online acquaintance, no matter the sob story. These are common ploys for scammers

Common online dating tips for women put a lot of emphasis on safety, and for good reason. Women, in particular, should be cautious about giving out too much personal data or trusting too quickly. But guys, this applies to you too. A man isn’t immune to being catfished or put in uncomfortable situations. Plus, being respectful of your match’s safety concerns is just good dating etiquette.

In fact, any list of online dating tips for men should include being respectful of these safety measures. Making your date feel safe is part of being a good guy. So, stay alert, use your head, and don’t let infatuation cloud your judgment. These online dating safety tips ensure that your love story starts off on a safe note.

Related Reading: The Dangers Of Online Dating In 2025 And How To Avoid Them

11. Handle rejection like an adult

Not every connection will work out, and that’s okay. Maybe you felt a spark, but they didn’t, or a conversation just fizzled out. How you handle rejection and the disappointment that comes with it says a lot about you. The golden rule: be graceful, not bitter. If someone you like doesn’t respond or they politely decline to take things further, accept it and move on. Do not send angry rants or beg for explanations. There are ugly stories all over the internet of people who get rejected and then lash out by insulting the other person. Don’t be that guy or gal.

12. Don’t take ghosting personally

Ah, ghosting! The painful phenomenon of someone vanishing without a word. It’s unfortunately a common part of modern dating. Perhaps you had a few great chats or even a couple of dates, and then poof, they stop responding.

First, remind yourself: it’s not about you. People ghost for all sorts of reasons. Maybe they got back with an ex, maybe they’re juggling too many matches, maybe they freaked out, and those reasons have more to do with them than with your worth. As tempting as it is to seek closure, chasing down a ghost with multiple texts like “???” or angry demands will only make you feel worse. The best thing you can do is accept it and move forward.

It’s absolutely normal to feel hurt or angry. Vent to your friends if you need to. But resist the urge to trash-talk the ghost or seek revenge. Instead, focus on the positives: you learned something from the experience, you had some nice conversations, maybe, and now you’re free to meet someone better. Every “ghost” just clears the path for the right person to walk in. Keep that mindset, and ghosting loses a bit of its sting.

Related Reading: Why Is Dating So Hard? 10 Reasons And How To Deal With Them

13. Stay positive and enjoy the journey

At the end of the day, dating is supposed to be an adventure, not a dreaded slog. Attitude is everything. You can read dozens of dating tips online, but none of them will help if you lose hope or stop putting yourself out there. If you approach online dating with a positive, open-minded outlook, you’re already halfway to success. It’s easy to become cynical after a few bad experiences, but try not to let that sour you on the whole process.

So, smile and have fun with it. Crack a joke in your messages. Take breaks when you need to, but don’t quit for good just because you hit a rough patch. Believe it or not, most people on the apps are looking for genuine connections just like you. Keeping that in mind will help you approach each new match as a person, not just another statistic. And positivity is attractive. Someone who’s upbeat and optimistic will draw others in.

FAQs

1. What makes a good online dating profile?

A great profile is the perfect mix of honest and interesting. Start with clear, flattering photos that show your face without any filters that alter your appearance, and include at least one photo that reveals a hobby or setting you love to spark conversation. In your bio, focus on a few specific details that reflect your personality or values. For instance, mention what you’re passionate about rather than a bland list of adjectives. Show some humor or quirk, if that’s you. Also, state what you’re looking for with a positive spin. For instance, “Looking for a partner in crime for mindful dating adventures and cozy Netflix nights” instead of “no hookups, only serious relationships.” A profile that’s upbeat, specific, and authentic will attract matches who appreciate the real you.

2. How do you start a conversation on dating apps?

The best way is to personalize your opener. Avoid stale lines like, “Hey what’s up?” that flood everyone’s inbox. Instead, comment on something from their profile or photos. For example, “Hi! I see you love rock climbing. Ever been to Joshua Tree? I just tried bouldering there last summer” is a strong start. Asking a light, open-ended question is another great option. For example, “Your dog is adorable. What’s her name?” Being a bit playful or witty can also work if that’s your style, but avoid anything overly sexual or cheesy as a first message. That can be a turn-off. Essentially, think: thoughtful openers. And don’t stress too much.

3. How can I avoid dating burnout?

To prevent dating app fatigue, be intentional and kind to yourself. First, limit the number of apps or matches you’re juggling. Focus on one or two apps and a manageable number of conversations at a time. More is not always better. Swiping endlessly can lead to cognitive overload. Maybe designate certain times of day for dating app use so it doesn’t consume you 24/7. Also, celebrate small successes like a good conversation or a decent first date rather than fixating only on the end goal. Importantly, take regular breaks. If you feel swiping has become mindless or you’re dreading looking at messages, it’s time to pause. Lastly, if you find dating is majorly impacting your self-esteem or happiness, consider talking it out with a friend or even a therapist. They can help you process experiences and maintain perspective.

4. What are the top online dating safety rules?

The top rules boil down to protecting your personal info, meeting safely, and trusting your instincts. Here’s a quick rundown:
-Don’t include your last name, exact address, or contact info in your profile
-Most apps have in-app calling or messaging. Use those so you’re not giving out your phone number immediately
-Research your date before meeting. At the very least, consider a quick video chat date before meeting ^*
-Always meet for the first few dates in a public, populated place like a café, bar, or park
-Let a friend or family member know when and where you’re going and who you’re meeting
-Use your own transportation, so you aren’t dependent on your date to get home
-It’s fine to have a drink on a date if you want, but keep your wits. Don’t get so intoxicated that you’re not making sound decisions
-Listen to your gut. The moment something feels off, or if the person is pressuring you to do things you’re not comfortable with, end contact
-Use strong, unique passwords for dating apps to protect yourself from hackers targeting dating profiles

Final Thoughts

All the online dating advice and dating tips for online dating out there can be summed up like this: be authentic, be patient, and be kind – both to others and to yourself. Follow these basic online dating guidelines, but also trust your gut and personal judgment. And remember, there’s nothing wrong with you if it takes a little time or a few tries to meet the right person. As a final piece of free dating advice: don’t measure your self-worth by your dating app matches or messages.

You are more than your Tinder or Bumble profile. Keep your head up, enjoy meeting new people, and learn from each interaction. With the right mindset, you’ll turn that streak of bad luck into a story worth telling and maybe even find the relationship you’ve been hoping for. By following these online dating tips and staying true to yourself, you’ll give yourself the best chance at turning your luck around and finding that meaningful connection. Happy swiping and good luck!

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