Are you ready to step up your online dating game? Then it’s time to talk usernames. Now, I know what you’re thinking – does the name really matter that much? Yes, yes it does.
Your username is like your digital first impression and can make or break your chances of scoring a date with that special someone.
But don’t worry, I ran a dating site for years, so I’ve seen every kind of username you can imagine, and I’m here to help you navigate through the sea of options and choose a username that will make you stand out from the crowd (in a good way).
Choosing a username should only take you a few minutes. Don’t overthink it. The username for your online dating profile is important, but its sole purpose is simply to get you in the door without setting off any alarms.
1. First a Word of Caution
Don’t use your full name, or anything specific enough that it immediately leads to any other accounts you own and subsequently your identity when Googled.
And you don’t want to give away too much about yourself to strangers, so avoid using personal information like your home address or birth date in your username.
This is an obvious one, right? Wrong. Lots of people make this mistake and the reasons you want to avoid it are plentiful.
First, using your full name or personal information in your online dating username can make you an easy target for identity theft or online harassment. Second, it can make you appear too eager or desperate for attention. Third, it can make you seem unoriginal and boring.
2. Don’t Use Nonsensical Strings of Letters or Numbers
I get it, you may think it’s cool to have a unique username or that it’s easier to remember a string of numbers than an actual word. But let me tell you, nothing screams “I’m unoriginal” or “I don’t take online dating seriously” more than a meaningless jumble of characters.
For example, usernames like “xXx_unicornz_420_xXx” or “12345_johnnyappleseed” don’t reveal anything about the person behind the profile. They’re also likely to turn off potential matches who are looking for someone with a little more substance.
In short, if you want to maximize your chances of success in the online dating world, avoid nonsense strings of letters or numbers at all costs.
Instead, put some thought into choosing a unique but meaningful username that shows off who you really are.
3. Time to Get Creative
Write down the awesome qualities that make you, YOU! If your envisioned username is already dancing in your head, by all means, straight to Step 7 we go!
If not, think about your interests, hobbies or even your favorite colors and try to get creative with what you choose. Whether it’s your love for sci-fi or your bright personality, the goal is to draw attention and evoke intrigue in your potential matches.
Remember, online dating is all about standing out and being memorable. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through and show the world what makes you unique.
So, take some time to reflect on your best qualities and let them guide you in choosing a username that truly represents who you are.
4. Keep It Short and Sweet
Your username is the first thing that people will notice when they come across your online dating profile.
It’s like the headline of your profile, so it needs to be catchy, memorable, and easy to remember.
But you don’t want to make it too complicated or difficult for someone to type in, especially if they are doing so on a mobile device. That’s why it’s important to keep it short and sweet.
Aim for a username that’s easy to spell, easy to remember, and reflects your personality or interests.
5. Use Positive and Confident Language
It’s important to choose a username that’s memorable but also positive. Avoid negative or self-deprecating language as this can be a turn-off for potential matches.
Instead, use confident language that showcases your personality and interests.
6. Consider the Tone and Vibe of The Dating App or Website
For example, if you’re on a site predominantly used by professionals looking for serious relationships, it’s probably not a good idea to use an overly sexual or playful username.
On the other hand, if you’re on a more casual dating site like Ashley Madison or AdultFriendFinder, you might want to choose a username that’s a bit more playful, fun and suggestive…
One thing to keep in mind when choosing an online username is to avoid using anything too explicit or offensive.
Sure, you may think it’s hilarious to use a vulgar pun as your username, but many people will be put off by it.
7. Putting It All Together
Consider how to blend different elements, such as humor, alliteration, unrelated statements, inside jokes, or creative word play.
For instance, I challenged myself to come up with as many usernames as possible using seven details from Jack, in the example above, in just 5 minutes.
I managed to brainstorm 10 distinct usernames for both a dating profile and an online hookup profile (for sites like Ashley Madison or AdultFriendFinder):
For Dating Sites
- Surf_Nude_N_Bake
- GoldenGunnerJack
- TopGunsNFluffyBuns
- OutdoorsyJackAttack
- NakedWaveRider
- CakeAndCannons
- TexasSurfingPistolero
- FluffySlinginSurferBoy
- BeachBummingBaker
- StudlySurfer
For Hookup Sites
- HungTexanSurfer
- NudeGunSlinger
- BakingBadBoy
- JacktheRisque
- StockSellerStud
- TexasTemptation
- FluffyFetishFun
- MaverickofPleasure
- BiggunsforBigfun
- SurfNakedandTonsOfLust
8. Perform A Sanity Check
Take a moment to evaluate your username choice. Does it seem peculiar or puzzling at first glance?
Consider the initial impression it gives off and whether there are any unfavorable connotations associated with it. If this is the case, opt for a more ordinary username.
Does your username have a masculine tone or is it an inside joke? If so, reflect on whether the average user would comprehend the meaning behind it or find it unusual.
9. If in Doubt, Phone A Friend
Your friends know you best, so they’ll be able to give you honest feedback on whether or not your chosen username accurately represents who you are.
They might even have suggestions for better alternatives that you haven’t considered.
If you’re still stuck, try asking your friends to describe you in three words. You can use those words as a starting point for your username, or come up with something completely different.
