6 Changes To Make To Your Dating Profile In 2021, According To Experts

In the wake of the pandemic, people are experiencing a shared vulnerability and have begun recognizing the fragility of life. These changes, along with the start of a new year, have encouraged some singles to become more serious about dating. 

The dating app Hinge conducted a recent survey with more than 5,000 users worldwide. Among the participants, 53% of users say they're ready for a serious, long-term relationship, and 81% expect to meet "the one" this year. 

Before finding new pictures and writing witty prompts, spend five to 10 minutes in reflection. Envision yourself connecting with new people, then jot down how they made you feel, certified sex and dating coach Myisha Battle, M.S., suggests. 

The Hinge survey suggests most people know what they want when joining a dating app. However, dating coach Clara Artschwager says they're not communicating those desires clearly in their profiles.

When coming across the Hinge prompt "Let's be sure we're on the same page about...," she suggests writing: Let's make sure we're on the same page about seeking a relationship or finding something meaningful. 

Being transparent about who you are, what you want, and what matters to you will increase the chance of finding a compatible partner with similar intentions. 

That might also include being more upfront about your politics and worldviews, says Michael Kaye, global communications and public relations manager at OkCupid.

According to Artschwager, the most successful profiles tend to pair clarity with a real storytelling element. In other words, be honest, but don't be plain.  

Rather than saying "my ideal Friday night is a cozy night in," she suggests writing "my ideal Friday night includes sinking deep into the couch and watching my latest binge (Hello, Game of Thrones!) with a bowl of ramen in hand." 

A profile shouldn't just be expertly curated images or overly thought-out responses if they don't reflect your personality. While those may attract someone, they likely won't attract the right person for you. "Include a mix of humor and vulnerability," says Logan Ury, the director of relationship science at Hinge. "Whatever it is you love about who you are, make sure other people can see it."

Nearly everything from work to therapy to fitness classes shifted online this past year. And of course, dating did, too. According to Ury, "64% of Hinge users have been on a video date, and the majority of them plan to incorporate video into their dating process in the future, even when it's safe to meet up in person."

Not only does virtual dating provide a safe setting to meet new people during the pandemic, but it also broadens the dating pool. Why limit yourself to the confines of your own city when there are plenty of single people around the world you may hit it off with?  

This past year was difficult. If the events caused you to reflect on who you are and what you want out of a partner, 2021 may be the year to go after it. Just remember, the process of dating isn't always easy.

"The first step to overcoming your nerves is to invest in your own mental health and well-being," Ury says. These pre-date meditations may help you feel more comfortable, as can journaling or other grounding exercises like breathwork and light exercise.