The key to writing a great online dating profile is to know what you want, who you want to attract and who you are. That might sound tough, but it really isn’t, and in fact can be a fantastic exercise which draws into sharp focus exactly why you’re trying online dating as an over 50 dater.

Figure out, your likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, tastes in music, food, travel etc….  Do an inventory, if you’re a sensitive soul, say so… The truth brings action and power to the dating game, without it the potential for fun can be missed.

Be honest, be precise, and be specific. Don’t allow yourself to trot out the usual trite phrases like “enjoy nights in” because, let’s face it, that’s not the most interesting thing about yourself. Rather use the space to be slightly more inventive and eye catching without being dishonest. If your 5ft 1” and enjoy car boot sales, don’t pretend to be 5ft 6” and an antiques expert or you will be found out and look an idiot at best or untrustworthy at least.

The biggest turn on for potential dates is if you show you have a sense of humour. We are not talking about publishing your joke book here, just a light coating of wit will work wonders. Humour draws people in and gives conversation a vital lubricant

• Have a good photo on show

The number of responses, increase dramatically with a good photograph. Use a fairly recent photo. Avoid old photos that no longer represent the person you are now, it doesn’t pay to have a discrepancy between the picture and what you really look like.  Don’t have your mates or an ex-girlfriend on it! Try to show you in an ordinary context that people can relate to. The picture of you with a ‘kiss me quick hat’ doing the conga may be great fun but not likely to attract the widest audience.

• Check spelling and punctuation

Spell-check your profile and try to avoid ‘text speak’ as this can be confusing to some people. Correct your grammar and punctuation.  It’s also a good idea to get a friend to proofread your words, because studies have shown that rather than pictures, good grammar is the most appealing aspect of an online dating profile. If you don’t know, ask!

• Avoid misunderstandings when describing yourself.

We are our own worst critics and many people tend to focus on the downside of their appearance and experiences. Guess what? We are all too fat, too thin, too short, too tall and having bad hair days. The truth is that there is someone out there for everyone and starting off by criticising yourself is no way to attract them. Neither is being over the top and boasting about yourself to a degree that is bound to disappoint when you do meet.

• Don’t make a dating profile too long.

We all know that men can get easily get bored especially if you drone on about your favourite nail varnish colour. So, keep it realistic, witty and leave them wanting to know more.