There’s hardly a more intimidating task than the creation of your online dating profile. You want to sound like the amazing person you are, but you don’t want to sound like you’re bragging or making false claims. And, by no means, do you want to sound desperate. Essentially, the goal is to produce a profile so profound and clever that Mr. or Ms. Perfect will zero right in on you and the two of you will be soul mates forever. No problem, right? If only it were actually that easy! What to say varies from person to person, but there are few statements everyone should shy away from.

1. DON’T say: “I’m fun-loving” Who hates fun, really? Presumably, you’re looking for a mate who enjoys the things you do. So, list what you like to do specifically. Share a little about why you like these things. Let the potential partner reading your profile get to know more about you than the fact that, like the rest of the world, you enjoy having fun.
2. DON’T say: “I’m intelligent” This is subjective. People have different views on what qualifies. Also, this statement doesn’t radiate modesty. Instead, let your profile speak to your intelligence.
3. DON’T say: “I’m independent” If you’re over the age of 18, have lived alone and held down a job for a few years, the world just assumes you’re independent. This will not separate you from the rest. Instead, list personal quirks that make you unique.
4. DON’T say: “I’m attractive” First of all, if you haven’t posted a photo on your online dating site profile, good luck! In today’s visual society, it’s unlikely you’ll get a lot of attention that way. Show, don’t tell!

Online dating simply can’t be beat in terms of convenience and ease. Curling up in bed with your laptop and a keen eye is a whole lot easier (and less stressful) than going on date after date with dud after dud. Online dating allows you to get a sense of what you’re getting into before signing on board to meet the lucky fella. That being said online dating comes with its own set of risks and dangers. You’re basically meeting a total stranger who has spent their time prowling the internet for a companion (then again, so have you!). Nine times out of ten everything is completely fine and the worst thing that happens is that you have an unpleasant date, shake it off and go to bed. That said, there are some precautions you can take to ensure your safety in the world of online dating – because your safety is of primary importance to us at findbetterlove.com!

First and foremost, get to the know the fella a bit before exchanging personal information. Don’t give out personal information (like your personal email, phone number, place of employment or house address) right away. A back and forth exchange is the best way to enter into this with a feeling of safety. When you use findbetterlove.com, we take care of that for you. You only open yourself to vulnerability when you’re ready.

Next, once you’ve agreed to meet, meet in a public place. Not at your place or his! Meeting in a public place allows both of you to feel the other person out without being in any sort of personal jeopardy. Don’t rush this. Use common sense.

Third, and most importantly, if something doesn’t feel right trust your gut and move in the other direction. Once again – common sense prevails.