1st Contact? What to say?
First impressions are important online as much as they are in person A good subject line followed by an effective message can be the difference between receiving a response or not.
Try these seven simple suggestions to help you get started:
Be personable and complimentary
Everyone likes a compliment. Whether you say you are enamored with his or her disarming smile or impressed with their scope of answers to the profile questions a compliment is welcomed and well received.
Do not send a bio or generic letters
Generic letters are impersonal and a total buzz kill, so avoid sending the same introductory email to everyone you want to meet and leave the cut and paste function for work. Tell the person whom you writing what it was about their profile that piqued your interest. Tell the person in what ways you believe the two of you to be compatible. The more personable and engaging your email is, the better it will be received.
Be positive and comfortable in your skin
All too often members begin their message(s) with a statement like, "I created my profile as joke...", "I can't believe I'm doing this" or "I'm not sure if you'll like my profile, but..." Start your conversation with a dash of confidence and a pinch of personality. Serve it up warm and watch the responses roll in.
Be polite
Treat others as you wish to be treated. To be pushy or rude with members will get your message straight into the "delete" box. Be friendly and amicable - after all, we are all on this site to make friends and to meet our soul mate.
Emphasize common interests
What common interests, hobbies, attitudes do you share with him/her. Emphasize these common interests
Use "emoticons"
Use our "emoticons" to display your fun and creative side.
Be Honest
"It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not."
Take your time before requesting direct contact information
The anonymity of online dating gives you time to get acquainted safely before you decide to talk on the phone or meet in person. Take your time in getting to know the other person and value your privacy. To be too pushy for personal information (phone number, etc.) is a turn off and sure red flag for experienced online users who use dating services.