How to Start a Conversation on a Dating App like Tinder or Bumble

Starting a conversation on a dating app can be intimidating, especially if you're new to online dating. But with the right approach, you can make a connection and build a rapport with someone who catches your eye.

Here are some tips for starting a conversation on a dating app like Tinder or Bumble

1.  Read their profile: Before you send a message, take a moment to read through their profile to get a sense of their interests and personality. Look for common ground, such as shared hobbies or favorite movies, and use that information to start the conversation. Not reading someone’s profile can be a disaster if you say the wrong thing. Right away they’ll know you’re not serious about dating.

2.  Comment on their photos: A compliment on one of their photos can be an easy icebreaker. Keep it light and positive, such as mentioning how great their smile looks or how adventurous they seem in their photos. Avoid talking about their sexual features. You can do that later ;)

3.  Ask a question: A question is a great way to start a conversation because it shows that you're interested in getting to know the person. Ask about their favorite travel destinations, hobbies, or books to get the conversation going. Questions are better than statements because if the other person never replies you’ll know they aren’t interested in talking.

4.  Make a reference to something in their profile: If they mention their favorite TV show or band in their profile, use that as an opportunity to start a conversation. Ask if they've seen the latest episode or if they're a fan of any other shows or bands. Try to find common ground between your profile and theirs.

5.  Be yourself: Above all, be yourself and let your personality shine through in your messages. Avoid using pick-up lines or clichéd compliments, as they can come across as insincere. Talk to them like you would a friend. You’re not shy and boring around your friends are you?

Starting a conversation on a dating app doesn't have to be difficult. Just be yourself, show genuine interest in the other person, and let the conversation flow naturally.

What are the worst conversation starters on a dating app?

1.  Sexual comments or innuendos: Making sexual comments or advances right off the bat can be seen as inappropriate and turn the other person off. Wait until you get to know each other better before discussing anything intimate.

2.  Negative comments: Avoid starting the conversation with negative comments, such as complaining about your day or critiquing the other person's profile. This sets a negative tone for the conversation and makes it less likely that the other person will respond positively.

3.  Cliché compliments: Overused compliments, such as calling someone "beautiful" or "gorgeous," can be seen as insincere. Instead, try to find something unique about the person and comment on that.

4.  Lack of effort: Sending a generic message, such as "Hey" or "What's up?" without putting any thought into it shows a lack of effort and is unlikely to engage the other person in a meaningful conversation.

5.  Asking personal questions too soon: While it's important to get to know each other, avoid asking personal questions, such as their salary or relationship history, too soon. This can make the other person feel uncomfortable and end the conversation before it even starts.

It's best to approach a conversation on a dating app with respect and genuine interest in getting to know the other person. Avoid starting with negative or inappropriate comments and put some effort into making the conversation engaging and meaningful.

While conversation is key to online dating apps, profile photos can be just as important.

Here some tips for taking better profile photos for dating apps

1.  Dress nicely: Wear something that makes you feel confident and attractive. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or distracting, and make sure your outfit fits well. If you look like a hobo in your photos, they might assume you don’t own any nice clothes and would make a bad dinner date.

2.  Choose the right lighting: Natural lighting is best, so take your photos outdoors or near a window. If you're taking photos indoors, make sure the lighting is bright and even to avoid shadows on your face. The best time to take photos is during the golden hours, which is the first hour after sunrise, and the last hour before sunset.

3.  Smile: A genuine smile is attractive and welcoming, so be sure to smile in at least one of your photos. Avoid wearing sunglasses or hats in all of your photos, as they hide your face and make it harder for others to connect with you. If you wear a hat in all your photos then they might assume you are bald. (This is referred to as hat fishing. It’s like cat fishing but with hair.)

4.  Use high-quality photos: Use a high-resolution camera or smartphone to take your photos. Avoid using blurry or pixelated photos, as they give the impression that you're not putting effort into your profile.

5.  Show off your personality: Choose photos that show off your interests and personality. For example, if you love hiking, include a photo of yourself on a trail. If you're a foodie, include a photo of yourself trying a new restaurant. Action shots are always great.

6.  Get a second opinion: Ask a friend or family member to look at your photos and give you feedback. They may have a different perspective and be able to suggest which photos are the strongest.

7.  Study photography. You can learn a lot about taking better photos in just 30 minutes on YouTube. Sure, you probably won’t win any awards, but any leg up on the competition is always good in the dating world.

Taking the time to create a well-crafted profile photo on a dating app can help you attract more potential matches. Just be yourself, smile, and choose high-quality photos that showcase your interests and personality.

Starting a conversation on a dating app can be nerve-wracking, but it's also an exciting opportunity to connect with new people and potentially find love. Remember that everyone is looking for someone to connect with, and a great conversation can be the start of a beautiful relationship. Be confident, be yourself, and don't be afraid to take the first step. Who knows, the person you message could be the love of your life. Good luck!