How To Write An Opening Email While Online Dating

The goal of your online dating profile is to spark intrigue and to get conversations started.

One of the most challenging parts of online dating getting the conversation started. I’m sure many if not all have experienced this.

You search online, read through profiles until you find someone who sparks your interest. You get excited thinking to yourself he/she seems really cool and this is someone I’d like to try get to know better.

You click, ‘compose an email’ just to stare at a blank page for 30 minutes. You have no idea what to say. Eventually, you type anything quick and easy just to get it done and over with.

Let me help you conquer that blank screen.

For starters, here is what NOT to do.

Do not just say, “hey” or “hi” or “what’s up?” or (cringe) “text me, 555.1234”

On the flip side, do not introduce yourself with an autobiography. You have a profile for that (side note: also not meant to be your whole life’s story). The odds are good that no one will take the time to read it all.

I’m not a big fan of winking or nudging or whatever passive-aggressive option is available, but that’s a personal judgement and can be a case-by-case decision. Sending a real message shows confidence and genuine interest. To me, a wink signals that all the effort you can muster is a click of a button and hope for the best.

Don’t be generic and ask, so what do you like to do? Hopefully, this person wrote all about that in their profile – that’s what it’s for. This might signify you didn’t take the time to read it.

Don’t ask, so how is online dating going for you? When you ask that it might generate the thoughts: Are you interested in me or my dating life? Are you interested in me or your competition?

Absolutely DO NOT compose a standard message that you copy and paste and send out to everyone. Believe me, people can tell. Similar to my first point, if you send the same message to everyone all it shows is that you are playing a numbers game and you’re not genuinely interested in the person you are messaging. If you appear like you will just take what you can get, your response rate is going to be low.

A good, genuine message is reflective and conveys authentic interest. Start conversations that are open-ended; get him/her talking about him/herself.

Here are examples:

I enjoyed reading your profile, you seem X,Y, and/or Z (easy going, down to earth, smart, etc.) I like that because……
- “You seem like a real positive upbeat person. That is so my style – why sweat the small stuff, right?”

I like what you said about X, Y, and/or Z, and I can relate to what you said about X, Y, and/or Z.
- “I really like that you have such a passion for dog rescue. I have a couple of rescue dogs myself. They’re goofy but I couldn’t imagine life without them. What are your dogs’ names?”

Be direct and say, I am genuinely interested in learning more about you (and maybe add a qualifier about what it is about her that makes you say that). Confidence is attractive.
- “I really like everything you shared about yourself in your profile, especially the part about your passion for dog rescue. I actually volunteer at one of the shelters every other weekend and it’s so much fun. I’d love to chat and get to know you more.”

Simply say, Tell me more about:
- your trip to X, Your dog, your kids; whatever you are genuinely interested in learning more about.
- “You seem to love your job, tell me more about what you do…” Or “Your trip to Costa Rica looks like it was a blast. I’d love to hear more about it.”

Important Tip

If your profile falls flat, no email is going to save you. For example, if you tell a person that you really like their upbeat attitude and share that you have similar interests, yet convey zero information to prove that fact in your profile, then your message is going to be ignored. Remember, if you appear like you will take whatever you can get, you will get passed by.

The final step is to ask for a date. Remember, the goal of online dating is to get offline. Don’t ask for the date right away, but don’t wait too long either. My suggestion is exchange a couple messages first to warm things up. Don’t wait longer than a few days. If you want to play it safe and cover your bases, add a disclaimer that suggests you are respectful of whatever pace they are comfortable with.

There are a gazillion varying opinions out there. Dating has somehow gotten very complicated, but it’s really not. At least, it shouldn’t be! At the end of the day, follow your instincts, and most importantly, be yourself. Stay positive, take things in stride, and don’t forget to have fun!

If you are someone thinking about trying online dating or giving it another go with a different approach, check out the Packages and Pricing Page and start dating with a great online dating profile.

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