You're single, you're a great person, and you want to find someone to share your life with. Or maybe some to share a few months with. Or less. A personal ad is one of the better ways to meet new and intriguing people. There are many resources out there that offer dating services--websites, newspapers, magazines, etc--but no matter what resource you use, it is important to write the best personal ad possible. This web page gives you great tips and advice on how to write a personal that will work for you.
As with most things, writing personals is both an art and a science. Whether you are writing a personal profile for an online dating website, or you are submitting a personal ad to a newspaper or magazine, here are some tips that will improve your personal:
- Learn from Other Ads. Read the personals already out there. Inspect them to see what you like or don't like about them. Personals can be as different as the person writing them. Identify what you like and use it in your personal ad.
- You Are Unique. There is no one like you. What makes you uniquely lovable and desirable? This is what the companion-seeker wants to know. Don't offer just another cardboard cut-out personal ad--you are not a cardboard cut-out person! List the attributes that make you singularly YOU.
- Target Partner. In the dating scene, you have a strong idea of what type of person you're looking for--your target partner. When creating your personal profile or ad, think of what they might want to hear about you. What about you will interest them ? Target your personal to attract the type of person you want. Humorous? Serious? Happy-go-lucky?
- Avoid Abbreviations/Acronyms. If you have the space in your personal, avoid such things as SWF, SWM, etc. It tends to cheapen your personal and make it seem more generic. Make it more personable.
- Photos (if applicable). Particularly for dating websites, a photo makes for a great personal. It is said that a photo can attract 7-12 times more traffic to your personal profile. Pick out a good photo of yourself that looks like you.
- Proofread. Don't let typos interfere with your personal. Nothing says "Do Not Date Me" more than horrible spelling and sloppy writing. Have friends and family read your personal to give you feedback.
- Contact Information. Don't forget to include your phone number, email address, instant messenger ID, or whatever manner of contacting is appropriate to the dating service you are using.