Getting back into dating after years—or even decades—on the sidelines can feel intimidating. If you’re a man over 40, divorced, or simply out of practice, opening a dating app for the first time can be overwhelming. Where do you start? What actually works? And how do you avoid wasting time?

The good news is you don’t need to master every trick. A solid profile, a few good photos, and honest information are enough to get you moving. Here are the best dating profile tips for men who want to get started without the stress.

1. Think About Your “Brand”

Your dating profile isn’t about impressing everyone—it’s about attracting the right person. Imagine it like choosing a cruise. Disney isn’t better than Carnival, and Carnival isn’t better than an Arctic expedition. They’re just different, and each appeals to a different audience.

The same goes for you. Is your lifestyle built on travel and spontaneity? Or do you prefer traditions, family, and stability with occasional adventures? There’s no right or wrong answer. If you’re dating after divorce or starting fresh later in life, the best way to find your person is to present your life accurately.

2. Photos: Give Variety, Not Perfection

Most apps require six photos. Use them to give a clear and accurate impression:

• One natural headshot.

• One full-body photo.

• One with friends or family.

• One in your element (workout, cooking, hiking—whatever feels like you).

• One lifestyle photo that shows how you spend time.

• One lighthearted or funny photo at the end.

Think about the reader: she’s swiping through hundreds of profiles. Variety stands out. And remember—under-promise, over-deliver. Exaggerating your height or using old photos might get a match, but it rarely leads to a good date.

3. Prompts: Be Specific, Not Scripted

Women read prompts carefully. They don’t want generic answers, they want details that give them something to connect with. For example:

• Instead of “I love to read”, say “My current favorite is Dune.”

• Instead of “I like music”, say “Last concert: Kendrick Lamar.”

You don’t have to be witty unless that’s how you naturally talk. Overly polished answers often sound fake—sometimes like ChatGPT wrote them. Keep it simple, honest, and specific.

4. Skip the Sexual References

Even if it’s genuine, writing things like “I love to kiss” or making sexual jokes almost always backfires. At best, it scares women off. At worst, it gets you reported or banned. A dating profile for men should come across as confident, not creepy.

5. Keep Perspective

Dating apps for men over 40—or any age—are just one tool. Don’t make them your only strategy. Keep them running in the background while you’re out living your life. You’ll be most attractive when you’re already feeling good about yourself—spending time with friends, pursuing hobbies, and taking care of your health.

Bottom line: If you’re getting back into dating after divorce, over 40, or simply new to apps, the basics are simple. Present your lifestyle honestly, use a variety of photos, write specific prompts, and skip the gimmicks. You’re not looking for everyone—you’re looking for the right fit.