1. Read their profile before writing your message
First, make sure that you actually read the other person’s profile! There is a wealth of information in there. Turns out you’ve both been to Thailand? Great! Mentioning this is the perfect way to break the ice. If you notice a common interest, talk about it. Referring to their hobbies, pictures, or occupation in your message shows that you have put time into reading their profile and have taken a genuine interest in them. Don’t forget to let your personality shine through! Think of how your friends see you. If you’re the funny guy, then slip in a tasteful joke. If you’re poetic, artistic, or creative, let that come across.
2. Be upbeat
Use a friendly and positive tone. This is just the first message, there’s no need to be too serious. Talking about how you haven’t dated since your last break-up, or how you’re ready to have kids like, yesterday, isn’t a great opener. Keeping things fun and upbeat is the best way to get a response.
3. Keep it short and sweet
You have already created a profile and filled out a description. The purpose of this message is to entice the recipient to view your profile and see if he or she is interested in you, too. There’s no need to write an encyclopedia of personal details on your profile. Your hamster’s middle name and the highlights of your recent visit to the dentist are best saved for when you’ve gotten to know each other a bit better.
4. Open up the conversation
Always try to include a question in your message, so that you can open up the conversation. Asking the other person something (about their description, pictures, etc.), gives them some material to respond with and takes the pressure off, making it more likely that they’ll write back. Asking questions is a great jumping off point, so try to initiate a fun topic that interests you both.
Be sure to end by letting the user know you’re excited to hear back from them!