Breaking the ice is no easy task when it comes to dating. However, it is easier to break the ground online rather than approaching someone personally. The best part is you do not have to face a crowd or be conscious when you attempt online dating. Below are 5 online dating tips for writers:
1. Proofread
Proofreading your online dating profile or message is equally important as your write-up. When you decide to create a dating profile or message someone on the internet, make it a point to proofread your writing. Nobody likes to read something like this: Yu lik so butiful, honi. Typos and grammar mistakes can put off your potential dates. Such kind of writing conveys that you are casual though you did not intend to sound casual. Make your writing as crisp and appealing as possible. Here is a sample:
Hi (name),
I am (your name). I loved what you wrote in your profile!
I see that you and I share our love for pets. I loved the furry doggy in your picture. I have a doggy too and love to take it for walks. What is your dog’s name? Death metal is the best! I swear by it! Glad to know you too love it.
2. Avoid information overload
Who wants to hear all the nitty-gritty about your life just because you are a writer? Avoid too much information about yourself when you are going to meet someone or even if you are drafting your first message. Talking a lot about yourself can be a big turn off. If you are writing a message, ensure that it does not look like an essay or a haiku. Include enough content to spark somebody’s interest and do not include so much that people fall asleep! Asking an appropriate number of questions is also a good way to trigger a conversation.
3. Read thoroughly
Writers can get carried away when they come across attractive profiles. But before you send a message to somebody who sparked your interest, ensure that you read the profile description carefully. Do not get lured by the photo. Remain calm and focus your thoughts. Ask yourself why you are interested in the person and if there are any common interests that you both share. Do your homework thoroughly before you approach the other person.
4. Be creative
As a writer, you need to be creative when are trying to woo someone. Most people do not like the usual liners like “You look beautiful,” “I think I am in love with you,” or “I have the hots for you.” These pickup lines may sound as if you are overdoing, although that may not be your intention. So use the KISS (keep it short and simple) principle. Approach somebody like a friend and let things take their turn.
5. Be confident
Remain calm when you are typing your message or when facing your interest. Let the butterflies flutter in your stomach but do not let that make you look or sound diffident. Apply some deodorant or splash some cold water before you go and meet somebody. Confidence is a big turn on for anybody.
Remember that it is your sentences that sell, be it fiction or non-fiction. When you review your writing, try to create sentences that make sense so that they appeal to your readers.
Image credit: Jon Rawlinson on flickr and reproduced under Creative Commons 2.0