New Research Reveals What Actually Works in Dating Profiles

In the world of online dating, we all want to know what actually works, not what worked for someone's cousin's roommate, but what the research says will help you make meaningful connections.

A new study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, which analyzed over 10,000 dating profiles across multiple platforms drills into this subject to determine exactly what leads to more matches and better conversations.

The findings confirmed some things I've long suspected, but also revealed some surprises that might change how you approach your dating profile.

Specificity Beats Generic Every Time

One of the study's most compelling findings: profiles with specific, detailed interests received 37% more meaningful interactions than those with generic interests.

We've all seen the profiles mentioning "hiking and travel" (and if that's in your profile right now, don't worry—you're in good company). But the research shows that getting specific about which trails you love hiking or where you dream of traveling next makes you significantly more likely to connect with someone who shares your particular passions.

Why does this work? Specificity gives potential matches something concrete to respond to. "I see you've hiked the Appalachian Trail—I've always wanted to try that!" creates a much more natural conversation opener than responding to a generic interest.

Show, Don't Just Tell

Perhaps the most interesting finding was that profiles where photos backed up the written bio increased trust and perceived authenticity by a whopping 42%.

This means if you mention loving cooking in your bio, including a photo of yourself making your signature dish makes you seem significantly more trustworthy and authentic to potential matches. This "proof in pictures" approach signals that you're genuine about your interests rather than just listing what you think sounds appealing.

The Power of Authentic Vulnerability

And then there's the most surprising finding. Profiles that included one "vulnerability marker"—an authentic challenge or growth moment—received 28% more responses than purely positive profiles.

This doesn't mean filling your profile with negativity. Rather, it means including one genuine moment that shows you're a real person with depth. For example, mentioning how training for your first marathon taught you about perseverance, or how adopting your rescue dog helped you through a tough time.

This vulnerability creates an opening for more meaningful connection, standing out in a sea of profiles that can sometimes feel like highlight reels.

What This Means For Your Dating Profile

The research clearly shows that authenticity, specificity, and consistency between your words and photos are the keys to creating a profile that not only gets more matches, but attracts people who connect with the real you.

If you're struggling with how to implement these insights in your own profile, or just want an objective set of eyes to help you put your best foot forward, we're here to help. After all, dating isn't just about getting more matches—it's about finding the right matches. And that starts with a profile that authentically represents who you really are.