I'm constantly amazed by the number of people who seem to spend no time creating their ad. With the millions of ads out there, do they really think they can get by with the old "lonely male seeks straight female" approach?

Your ad is like a T.V. commercial for who you are. You have to put some time and effort into it. It has to grab someone, make them say 'Oooooo' or 'Mmmmmmm!' Follow my tips and you'll be romancing in no time. Ignore my advice and you'll still be surfing for dates when you're 95!

1. Your headline
   It better be good. Your prospective match will be browsing through thousands of ads at a time, so your headline has to stand out.
   
   
   • Make it unique
     "Nice guy seeks girl" won't cut it. It's got to be different and clever.
     
     
   • Play up your personality
     "Life is an adventure, take the first step" or "Dented armor but still no rust" are great examples. It’s important to send a message that someone will receive loud and clear.
     
     
   • Be realistic
     Don't be negative. You're looking for a date not a therapist.
   
   
   
2. Your profile
   Once your headline grabs them, the trick is to keep their attention. Don’t feel like you have to sell yourself; just be open and honest. Keep the following advice in mind to help you create a memorable profile.
   
   
   • Get to the point
     Dive right into describing yourself and what makes you tick.
     
     
   • Focus on your strengths
     Write about your interests, work, things you love, or travels — whatever it is that makes you who you are.
     
     
   • Be honest
     An "avid tennis player" is not someone who started taking lessons last weekend. The walk from your desk to the parking lot does not make you an "exercise fanatic".
     
     
   • Describe what YOU want
     Don’t be afraid to mention qualities that are important to you in a relationship — loyalty, the ability to communicate, intelligence and humor are good examples.
     
     
   • Check your spelling
     Bad spelling gives a bad impression. AS DOES TYPING IN UPPERCASE. Don't do it.
   
   
   
3. Your photo
   Profiles with photos get results! Sadly, profiles without photos get almost NO response. Don't be shy.
   
   
   • It’s all about you
     Group shots don't work well. Close head & shoulder shots are much better. Make sure it's really a photo of you. And remember to smile!