5 Things to Never Put in Your Dating Profile Bio
Online dating has become the go-to way for people to meet in today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, especially in places like Nigeria, where dating platforms like Match Naija connect thousands of singles looking for love. Whether you’re new to online dating or updating your profile for the fifth time, your bio is one of the first things potential matches will see.
Think of it as your first impression—it can spark curiosity or cause someone to keep scrolling.
So, how do you stand out in a sea of profiles without coming across as too forward, generic, or worse, a red flag? Let’s start with what not to do.
Here are five things you should never include in your dating profile bio and what you should do instead to attract attention.
1. Negative or Aggressive Statements
Statements like:
- “Don’t message me if you’re just here to waste time.”
- “Tired of fake people, so don’t even try.”
- “No gold diggers or liars—I’ve had enough.”
You should be very direct and upfront about what you will not condone because you want something serious, but going about it this way will give you the opposite result you want. It makes you seem hard, closed-off, and harsh.
Why is this a problem?
This is a problem because people naturally like people who exude positivity, not those whose bios warn against every negative thing they have experienced in dating. The love you are looking for might come through in your bio, and instead of wanting to talk to you further, they might decide to allow you to deal with your issues by yourself.
What to do instead:
I’d like you to focus on the positives and not the negatives. Please say what you want instead of saying what you don’t like or won’t accept.
For example:
- “I will appreciate someone who loves children and wants to be a father.”
- “I value quality time and words of affirmation.”
This sets a hopeful tone and helps you connect with people who share your values.
2. Clichés and Generic Phrases
We’ve all seen them:
- “I love to travel, eat, and laugh.”
- “I work hard and play harder.”
- “Just looking for my other half.”
While none of these are bad, they’re painfully overused. If your profile reads like a hundred others, you won’t stand out—and in the world of online dating, standing out matters.
Why is this a problem?
Generic bios give little insight into who you truly are. They don’t start conversations or reveal your personality, which is essential for building a real connection.
What to do instead:
Be specific. Instead of “I love to travel,” say, “My dream is to visit the ancient city of Petra in Jordan.” Rather than “I love to laugh,” say, “Nothing beats a good stand-up comedy show on Friday nights.”
Specificity gives your profile color and makes it easier for someone to start a conversation.
3. Overly Sexual or Inappropriate Content
While we can not ignore the importance of physical attraction here, being overly suggestive in your bio sends the wrong message, especially if you’re looking for something serious.
Examples to avoid:
- “Looking for a fun time, if you know what I mean.”
- “Only swipe if you’re hot.”
- “I’ve got the stamina of a lion 😉.”
Why is this a problem?
Profiles that lead with sexual innuendos are often seen as disrespectful or immature, especially by people who are seeking genuine connection. You risk attracting the wrong crowd and turning away serious, emotionally intelligent matches.
What to do instead:
If physical chemistry is essential to you (as it is for many), express that respectfully and classically. For example:
- “I value physical and emotional connection equally.”
- “Looking for someone I vibe with on every level.”
Keep your bio PG-rated. Let attraction develop naturally through conversation and chemistry.
4. Lies or Exaggerations
It might be tempting to embellish your height, age, job, or lifestyle—but this is a trap.
Examples include:
- Shaving five years off your age.
- Saying you’re “6 feet tall” when you’re 5’8″.
- Claiming you’re a “CEO” when you’re in an entry-level role.
Why is this a problem?
Even if these lies get you more matches, they set up your relationship on a false foundation. If you do meet in real life, the truth will come out. And when it does, the trust you were trying to build is immediately broken.
What to do instead:
Be real. Be proud of who you are and where you are in life. Authenticity is far more attractive than a polished lie. You don’t have to share every detail in your profile, but what you share should be truthful.
Bonus Tip: If you’re worried about how you’ll be perceived, focus on confidence. Confidence in your truth is more magnetic than any false version of yourself.
5. A Long List of Demands or “Requirements”
It’s okay to have standards, but listing out 10 must-haves like a job, car, six-pack abs, master’s degree, and “must love dogs” can be too intense.
Examples to avoid:
- “You must earn six figures and live in Lekki.”
- “No short guys. Only date men over 6ft.”
- “Don’t bother if you don’t have a passport.”
Why is this a problem?
It feels transactional. Instead of opening up space to connect, you’re narrowing the field in a way that feels judgmental or superficial. Even people who meet your criteria could feel turned off.
What to do instead:
When you write your bio, please say what you love, innovatively and subtly.
For example:
- “I like adventurous people who want more from life.”
- “I admire people who are content with who they are; they have self-worth and are respectful.”
Writing it this way will prevent your bio from sounding like a list of things you demand from your partner.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Real, Warm, and Engaging
Your dating profile is like a digital handshake. It is the first thing people see before talking to you. So, it must be structured so that the person reading it will have a warm perspective about you and want to meet you.
So, we just discussed the five things you should avoid in your profile if you want to put your best foot forward in online dating.
Let’s recap the key don’ts:
- Don’t be negative—be hopeful.
- Don’t be generic—be specific.
- Don’t be crude—be respectful.
- Don’t lie—be authentic.
- Don’t list demands—express values.
What would you like to include instead?
- A short, fun introduction.
- A glimpse of your personality.
- Your values and what excites you.
- Something that invites a conversation (like a favorite book, hobby, or fun fact).
Most importantly, be yourself. The right person is looking for you, not a curated version of you.
Would you be ready to create a dating profile that works?
You can take these tips and update your bio today on platforms like Match Naija, where people want to date and truly connect.
Happy dating! 💕
Also read: How to Build Trust in a New Relationship
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