Dating apps offer convenience and access to a broader pool of potential partners, but they also bring about frustrations and emotional challenges. When using online dating apps you may feel that the formula used on these platforms withhold certain profiles from view and prioritizes looks over compatibility, which may cause you to feel at the mercy of these mysterious algorithms. While dating app algorithms are designed to help users find matches, they are also built to keep users engaged and ultimately, to generate revenue. As a result, these algorithms may encourage behaviors that align with the app’s business model, such as spending money on premium features or staying on the app longer
By understanding how these algorithms work, you can adjust your approach and potentially get better (and possibly more compatible) matches. Here’s how you can use an understanding of dating app algorithms to get different results.
Demographic Preferences:
Algorithms may favor certain demographics or profiles that tend to receive more likes or engagement, which inherently marginalizes users who don’t fit the “popular” criteria.
For instance, Hinge supposedly uses an ELO scoring system to evaluate a users’ attractiveness based on how other users interact with them. Each person has a score that changes over time based on likes and engagement. Users with similar scores are more likely to be shown to each other, with the intention of creating more compatible matches. However, the reality is that this scoring system is more likely to reinforce societal biases and lead to a less inclusive experience.
User Behavior:
Algorithms may also nudge users toward engaging in certain behaviors. For instance, they may encourage more frequent swiping or messaging, by showing them profiles that are more likely to elicit these actions, rather than profiles that are genuinely compatible.
Algorithms also consider preferences users set in their profiles, such as age range, distance, and specific deal-breakers (e.g., smoking, religion). Beyond these explicit preferences, the algorithm also adapts based on user behavior, such as:
Likes: The profiles you like are analyzed to understand your preferences.
Comments: Engaging with specific prompts or photos gives the algorithm more data on what kind of content catches your attention.
Swipes: Both right and left swipes contribute to understanding your taste and what you might not be interested in.
Recency and Activity
Algorithms also prioritizes active users and those who have been recently online. This ensures that the profiles you see are more likely to result in a timely interaction.
Content Quality and Engagement
Profiles that are more complete and receive higher engagement (more likes and comments) tend to be shown more frequently. This encourages users to create thoughtful and engaging profiles, which in turn helps the algorithm better understand user preferences.
Feedback Loop
Many dating app algorithms continually refine their recommendations based on how you interact with the app. If you consistently like or pass on certain types of profiles, the app adjusts the types of profiles it shows you. This feedback loop is aimed to make the algorithm more personalized over time.
Paying for Premium
Dating app platforms also aim to generate revenue. For instance, users who pay for a Hinge subscription (Hinge Preferred) might see some differences, including access to more advanced filters and unlimited likes. However, the basic matching algorithm remains the same for both free and paid users.
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So how can you use this information to adjust your approach?
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Elevate Your Profile
Profile Photos: Use clear, high-quality photos that showcase different aspects of your personality. Avoid too many group photos or overly filtered images. Diversify the type of photos you use (e.g., don’t use all selfies, use some candid photos if you have some). Your pictures are an opportunity to promote more engagement – think about which pictures may be likely to promote conversation. A quick google search can help you find a photographer who specializes in online dating photos in your area if you are ready to upgrade your photos.
Bio: Craft a concise and engaging bio that highlights your interests and what you’re looking for. Be specific rather than generic—this helps attract people with similar values and goals. Your bio is another opportunity to promote engagement. Think about what you are looking for rather than what you don’t want.
Question Prompts: If the app includes specific question prompts, think about ones that will be most likely to start a conversation. Think of interesting and unique stories or qualities about yourself. Also consider the type of person you are hoping to match with. If you value humor in relationships, include a prompt that reflects your sense of humor.
2. Adjusting Your Approach
Quality Over Quantity: Instead of swiping right on everyone, be more selective. Take a moment to read profiles and assess whether the person aligns with what you’re seeking.
Set Preferences: Use the app’s filters and preferences to narrow down your matches. This helps in finding more compatible partners and reduces time spent on mismatches. Also consider expanding your preferences if you are feeling stuck.
App Activity/Engagement: Many dating apps use algorithms that favor active users. Regular engagement with the app can help your profile be seen by more people.
Profile Completeness: Ensure your profile is fully filled out, as this can boost your visibility in the app’s algorithm.
3. Engage Thoughtfully
Personalized Messages: When you match with someone, start the conversation with a message that refers to something specific in their profile. This shows genuine interest and sets you apart from others who may send generic messages.
Active Participation: Regularly check the app and respond promptly to messages. Active participation signals that you’re serious about finding a match.
4. Adjust Your Mindset
Stay Open-Minded: Avoid sticking rigidly to a checklist of traits. Sometimes the best matches come from unexpected connections. Consider expanding your preferences if you are feeling stuck.
5. Leverage App Features
Boosts and Super Likes: Many dating apps offer features like boosts or super likes that increase your visibility. You can try to use them strategically during peak times to maximize exposure.
Updating Your Profile Regularly: Regularly updating your photos and bio can refresh your profile and keep it visible in searches.
6. Seek Feedback
Ask Friends for Input: Sometimes, an outside perspective can help improve your profile. Ask a friend to review your profile and give honest feedback.
By implementing these strategies, you will hopefully see an improvement in the quality of your matches on dating apps. The key is to stay patient, be intentional with your actions, and continuously refine your approach based on your experiences. If you are feeling hopeless and discouraged – take a break!
Often, I hear clients mention missing out on potential matches as a reason to not take a break. However, when you use that time to focus on and invest in yourself, it is time well spent. Pick up a new hobby, spend quality time with friends, attend therapy and unpack past relationship patterns to better understand yourself and what hasn’t been working. Take care of yourself. You got this <3
Online Dating Support Therapy in Denver, Colorado
If you've been onlone dating for years or are about to jump in for the first time, seeking help will help you make the connections you want! With help and support online dating apps can be used as a tool to find a match and delete them for good! If you find yourself curious about how to improve your odds or get out of a rut, our skilled therapists at Lone Wolf Psychological Services can help you move towards your dating goals. Follow the steps below to get started.
1. We encourage you to get to know a little bit about our therapists, their specializations, and their credentials. Get to know our therapists here.
2. If you think relationship and online dating support is for you, reach out to us! You can use our convenient online therapy scheduling.
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