10 online dating tips

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By Jodie Mitchell

With the loneliest day for singletons lurking just around the corner, there's never been a better time to put yourself out there and get on the dating scene. But how do you successfully find a perfect partner through dating services?

Profiles online tend to be a sea of cliches and information so we spoke to expert Cheryl Ashbrook. As dating guru of website maxmyprofile.co.uk, Cheryl ensures your profile stands out and attracts plenty of potential dates. Below are her top tips to succeeding this Valentines Day, so once you're schooled up, head over to ShortList Dating to find that special someone.

1. Great username
Whether you choose funny, deep or clever it’s your call, but it’s the first thing others will notice so your profile has to back it up.

2. Headline
Keep it short and sweet but relevant, and spend time on it to ensure it’s significant.

3. Passion
Be enthusiastic about a hobby, whether it be sports, cars, music or travel. Just as long as you’re passionate about it, this will come through in your writing.

4. Avoid Cliches
Everyone loves walks on the beach and snuggling on the sofa, so stand out from the crowd by honestly saying what you like to do.

5. Be honest
There's no point pretending to be something you’re not, as people will meet you but you'll never get a second date.

6. Be positive
Your profile should smile from the page, not wallow in pity. Nobody gets pity dates online.

7. Include a photo
Most profiles without are not responded to, so be sure to upload a picture. Naked torsos don’t tend to go down so well though.

8. Don’t Show Off
By all means share your talents but sound modest - it’s much sexier.

9. Keep succinct but detailed
Too much information can bore viewers. Attract their interest but leave them wanting more on the date.

10. Have a sense of humour
This is the biggest turn on. People can see it through your writing, so be light hearted and enjoy the conversations that come from online dating.

Cheryl gives more advice for online daters in Pimp My Profile, a short documentary for Current TV.

Already got a date? Struggling for gift to get them? Be sure to check out our gift guide right here on ShortList.com.