Two words: online dating. Many of us have been down that road, and for some, it’s lead to love or even marriage. But for others, it’s still a journey. If you’re hoping to find your online dating success story, here are a few ways to make your profile stand out.

1. Keep Your Personal Description Short And Sweet

In a 140-character tweet-obsessed society, no one wants to read an incredibly long article, much less someone’s online dating profile that’s just as lengthy. Keep it to a two paragraphs max. This way, you include some important info without giving all of yourself away in a five-paragraph description. Let people know you can’t simply be described entirely online and if they want to get to know you more, then they should message you privately.

2. Strike A Balance Between Humble And Confident

Humility doesn’t equal low self-worth; you don’t want to sound as though you don’t deserve anything in the world that’s good. You can write about being a Christian and being undeserving of even God’s grace, but don’t make yourself sound like you have low self-esteem. People desire a Christian and God-honoring confidence, someone who can be spiritually strong, but also beautifully humble in the process. That’s very attractive.

3. Beware Of Being Superficial

Try not to sound like you’re shallow and only looking based on appearances; that’s one way to be completely and quickly overlooked. Now, I’m speaking as a woman, but I’ve seen this one plenty of times: “I’m looking for a beautiful and fit Christian girl who likes to workout, eat healthy and doesn’t shy away from a football game with a beer.” This is one sure way to try and sound down-to-earth, but it really just comes across as offensive. No one wants to be a trophy wife.

Try something more along the lines of “I’m looking for a Christian woman who’s beautiful from the inside out, who enjoys eating fairly healthy and wouldn’t mind that I work out from time to time, and who also would enjoy a football game or two.” This conveys that you are looking for a good match and partner, not just an attractive accessory who checks off all the boxes on your list.

4. Include Pictures Of Friends And Family

While you should definitely include a solo photo or two, it also helps to include other photos of those you love and care about in your dating profile. This will not only make you look down-to-earth, but you’ll look more appealing, personal and personable. It’s also a great way to start conversations. Just make sure it’s clear in your photos which person is you (again, make sure to have at least one or two shots of just yourself besides these) and get permission from friends and family before you use a photo that they’re in.

It can be hard to write about yourself for an online dating profile. But with these tips, you can hopefully present yourself well to potential matches and find someone who’s a great fit for you. Who knows – maybe you’ll be the next online dating success story! Good luck out there!

You may also be interested in 7 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Online Dating Experience