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With sites like Match.com claiming that 1 in 5 relationships now begin online, it’s no surprise so many single professionals have headed to the internet in search of “The One.” People long ago perfected the art of shopping online, and looking for the perfect match via the internet is no exception. When looking for love online, it is critical to understand that first impressions on the internet are much like first impressions in person; you only get one shot. You may have the best personality, the cutest laugh, and the charm to tie it all together, but don’t waste these dynamic qualities on a dude who falls victim to any of the four following first impression profile disasters (and remember to always avoid making these errors yourself!).

Oh, what’s in a name?

With practically every first name and number combination already claimed, this situation appears to be begging for a creative and witty solution. Let’s be clear, Social Shakespeare, using horribly blatant misspellings such as “gurl” or “sexxy” does not mean he has a way with words.  It’s ridiculously easy for something “clever” to rapidly spiral downward into “creepy,” and it’s usually right around the time you start seeing words such as “baby,” “daddy,” or any other noun establishing a parental relationship between you and other online singles. Sorry “SexxyDaddy4312,” but this “BabyGurl1234” just isn’t for you.

The bathroom self-portrait, and other places that should never serve as the setting for your profile picture.

“Wow, this bathroom mirror really shows off my good side. Not to mention this light is super flattering! I better take a picture ASAP!” said no one, ever. The profile-picture-taken-in-the-reflection-of-the-bathroom-mirror is basically asking the question, “Where is the LEAST sexy place I could photograph myself?” and answering with a blurry image of half your body on a cell phone camera. Don’t forget, we are all visual creatures with vivid imaginations, and your stunning eyes and well-defined cheekbones will be completely lost in visions of flossing teeth and trimming stray eyebrow hair. Always remember, there is a reason why people shut the door when they use the bathroom, and it is because no one wants to see what is happening on the other side.

Gee golly, this picture of my completely inanimate Chevy truck really brings out the color of my eyes!

The chain reaction of thoughts after seeing an automobile posted as a profile picture usually goes something like this:  “My God, this man must be a transformer!!!” to “Wow, that’s a really big truck…is he compensating for something?” and usually ends with frantically clicking to move on to the next profile while pondering the question “What exactly is this man trying to conceal?”  It’s been said that a person’s vehicle can be a window into his or her true personality, so make sure his says something other than “I’m hiding behind photographs of this jacked up automobile because I am afraid to show my face in public.”

The non-proof reading profiler.

Correct grammar and spelling are the online equivalent of opening the door and picking up the tab; it’s always a good idea.  If his profile is riddled with spelling errors and grammar mistakes, you may assume he is  just so excited to meet a girl like you that he completely forgot to proofread his own life story, or you could just assume that he does not know the difference between there/their, which should greatly affect (or is it effect?!) your decision to pursue someone else.

Let’s be honest. Dating, regardless of whether it begins with a chance encounter or via a computer screen, can be difficult to navigate. With so many people out there looking for love, it’s easy to get caught up in everything that can go wrong, but an open mind, a willingness to put yourself out there, and an online profile that offers a genuine reflection of who you are can make all the difference when finding the person that’s just right.

What are your tips for other online daters?

Alyssa is a 20-something working professional living life right in the heart of downtown Seattle. A writer, photographer, and lover of anything vintage, on a typical afternoon you can find her cruising through thrift shops, repainting a piece of old furniture, or enjoying some of Seattle's best coffee.
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