Try To Avoid These Online Dating Clichés

Few things will make a prospective date click away from your online dating profile faster than using tired old expressions to describe yourself or what you're looking for. At best, you'll just be another unmemorable face in the dating pool. At worst, you'll deter the very people you'd like to attract.

Why give someone a reason to reject you before they even get to know you?

Avoid these most-used clichés and watch the responses roll in.

Profile Formula #1: You've never done this before.
Anyone reading your profile will assume one of two things about you based on this statement: you're either lying or you're ashamed to be looking for love online. Neither is terribly attractive. Other clichés to avoid? Saying that you've "been burned," or are "tired of games." It's good to say what you're looking for - that you want to meet people or are focused on finding the love of your life - but do it in a positive way.

Profile Formula #2: You have a great sense of humor.
Or you "know how to treat" a woman/man. You don't want to just tell your readers that you're kind, funny and smart - you need to show them. Use example of how you'll keep them laughing. Example: "You won't be able to resist my George Bush shoe-dodging impersonation."

Profile Formula #3: You like dinner and a movie.
You don't need to plan dates this early in the game, so there's little reason to suggest anything specific, let alone something so unimaginative. Be specific about your interests and what you're looking for. How do you see yourself interacting with a partner? Give readers a good idea of your needs and values in concrete ways.

Profile Formula #4: You love long walks on the beach.
Or you're into sitting by the fire, having fun and holding hands. These kinds of broad expressions don't tell readers anything about you. Talk about what you enjoy that's unique to you. Go into more detail about why you like what you do and what you want to share about it with a partner. Instead of just saying, "I like hiking and camping," you might explain how you love finding new trails to explore, or would enjoy pointing out constellations to your date.