An expert’s top tips for making your Hinge profile stand out and getting the best matches

It’s time to be a dating legend

3 weeks ago

Hinge can often feel like a losing game and I’m always in a constant cycle of deleting and re-downloading the app on my phone. I can’t figure out if it’s me that’s the problem or the people showing up in my feed. If you’re like me, and nearing the point of fully giving up on Hinge, you might want to give it one more shot after you read these expert top tips from relationship coach Rachel Rose and update your profile. She offered The Tab some great advice on how to make your profile stand out and make real connections, because let’s be real, we can’t all have the same ideal Sunday of going for a roast and a walk.

Photos

hinge top tips profile

When it comes to choosing photos, for most of us it’s arguably the most important part of our account. Rachel noted that we are “visual creatures,” and “our brains love novelty.” She said it was really important to include photos that “showcase different aspects of your life” including “a mix of hobbies, travel, and everyday moments.”

“Variety conveys depth and keeps potential matches intrigued. Photos communicate nonverbal cues about your lifestyle, values, and aspirations. Showcase the life you’re proud of now and the one you’d love to build with a partner,” she said.

She also said it’s vital to choose photos that represent you as you are, with “realistic angles and natural lighting” to “build trust” and “create a foundation of authenticity” in new relationships. You should avoid using filters that “distort” your appearance and be wary of group photos that will confuse someone viewing your profile.

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“When people feel they’re seeing the ‘real’ you, they’re more likely to connect on a deeper level,” Rachel said. “Also, your oldest photos should be a max of 18 months old, any older and the question is: Is this person getting me as I am now?“

She also highlighted how “less is more when it comes to revealing skin.”

“Psychology shows that leaving some things to the imagination triggers curiosity and encourages someone to want to know more about you. A tasteful silhouette or well-chosen outfit can be far more alluring than baring it all,” Rachel added.

Voice notes

Rachel described the voice note feature as “a powerful tool for connection.”

“It allows someone to experience the warmth, rhythm, and tone of your voice, which can create an immediate sense of familiarity and safety. Neuroscience shows that vocal tones can influence how we perceive trustworthiness and compatibility. Use this feature to share something playful, heartfelt, or intriguing that invites someone to lean in,” she suggested.

Prompts

Prompts can be daunting for many, and it’s a chance to showcase a tiny amount of yourself to potential love interests. Rachel warned to “avoid the temptation to fill your profile with a laundry list of things you don’t want.”

“Negative language can unconsciously repel people, even those who might otherwise be a great match. Instead, reframe your profile using the principles of the law of attraction: Focus on the qualities, experiences, and relationship dynamics you want to call in. For example, instead of writing, ‘no drama,’ try, ‘I’m looking for a relationship built on mutual respect and joy.'”

You should also use prompts to “share snippets of your humor, values, or quirks” but Rachel pressed to “try not to over do this.”

“Your profile is just the teaser, not the whole meal. That being said, psychology tells us that people are drawn to authenticity and vulnerability, so don’t be afraid to let your true self shine – just in healthy doses for someone who has never met you. There will be plenty of time to dive in deeper on dates with the right matches.”

She also said to keep the mystery alive: “Share just enough to spark interest but hold back enough to encourage someone to reach out with questions. This balance creates a natural flow of conversation.”

Filter Criteria

It’s really important to “take time to define exactly what you want in a partner and relationship” before using the filter selection.

“This isn’t about casting a wide net—it’s about creating a profile that resonates deeply with the right person. Remember, you’re not here to match with everyone; you’re here to attract someone truly aligned with your values and goals,” Rachel said.

“Leverage dating app filters to reflect your most desired scenario. Whether it’s age range, height, or preferences about children, be specific. The more honed your criteria, the more likely the algorithm will align you with people seeking the same qualities in you. The dating process is as much about knowing your own high value as it is about finding someone who matches it. Being selective isn’t being picky—it’s honouring yourself and the relationship you want to build.” You hear that girls? It’s time to set the bar high!

Rachel said that when you “focus on specificity,” you’re more likely to attract “high-quality matches who fit seamlessly into the vision you have for your life.” She pressed that being clear about your desires sets the stage for deeper, more meaningful connections.

Do looks really matter?

Move over Love Is Blind, because according to Rachel, “physical attraction DOES matter massively.” However, “it’s just one piece of the puzzle.”

Rachel suggested that you “use your profile to draw someone in beyond looks by emphasizing your personality, passions, and values,” because by doing this, you’ll “attract someone who’s not only captivated by your appearance but also deeply curious about who you are as a person.”

“Remember, mystery is magnetic. Let them imagine the rest,” she finished.

If you found Rachel’s advice helpful, she currently has a Dating Profile Audit offer, which means half-price off of your first booking for Tab readers! Grab the Dating Profile Audit limited offer here. Happy dating!