To help you make a stellar first impression and increase your chances of finding your forever person, we've gathered expert tips from Jonathan Kirkland, head of marketing and brand for BLK, the leading dating app for Black singles. Here are 10 valuable do's and don'ts to enhance your online dating experience:

Do's:

1. Use High-Quality Photos:

   • Opt for clear, well-lit, and flattering photos that reveal your personality.
   • Showcase a mix of close-ups and full-body shots to provide a comprehensive view.

2. Write an Engaging Bio:

   • Craft an authentic and interesting bio that reflects your interests, hobbies, and relationship expectations.
   • A well-written bio sets you apart and attracts like-minded individuals.

3. Maintain Positivity:

   • Foster a positive tone in both your photos and bio.
   • Smile in your pictures and avoid negativity in your profile text.

4. Include Key Details:

   • Share basic information such as age, location, and occupation.
   • Providing essential details helps potential matches gauge compatibility.

5. Engage in Meaningful Conversations:

   • Respond to messages promptly and participate in thoughtful conversations.
   • Demonstrate genuine interest, ask questions, and actively contribute to the communication process.

Don'ts:

1. Avoid Misleading Photos:

   • Steer clear of heavily edited, AI-generated, or outdated photos that misrepresent your current appearance.
   • Honesty is vital for building trust in online dating.

2. Overshare Personal Information:

   • Protect your privacy by refraining from disclosing sensitive information like home addresses or financial details to strangers.
   • Gradually share personal information as you build trust.

3. Stay Positive and Avoid Criticism:

   • Refrain from venting frustrations or complaints about past online dating experiences or former partners.
   • Focus on highlighting your positive attributes and what you're seeking.

4. Don't Ghost or Disrespect:

   • Ghosting is considered disrespectful; communicate your intentions politely and directly if you're no longer interested.
   • Treat others with respect and courtesy.

5. Don't Rush Into Meetings:

   • While the goal is to meet in person, take your time to build a connection.
   • Ensure you feel comfortable and safe before arranging real-life meetings in public spaces.

By incorporating these do's and avoiding the corresponding don'ts, you'll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of online dating and increase your chances of finding a lasting connection.