Spring is in the air, and there’s no looking back. No more polar vortexes, puffer coats and nights in to shield yourself from the bone-chilling cold – it’s all sunshine, flowers and outdoor happy hours from here on out. That means that cuffing season has officially come to a close – and that it’s time to shed that romantic dead weight you’ve been holding on to since you downloaded Tinder around Thanksgiving. There’s nothing wrong with starting fresh.

If you opt to do it online, it might be time to tidy up your profile. It’s more than just changing your picture, though – it’s about changing your outlook. Jessica Baker, a self-discovery expert and founder of Aligned Signs, was gracious enough to offer a few tips on improving your web persona. Happy hunting, Candy Girls.

1. Perfect your tone

Delivery is key to ensuring that your personality comes through on screen. Write in a friendly, conversational manner. Simply imagine that you are talking to someone and write in full sentences. Be sure your profile flows but refrain from allowing it to read like a resume for a job.

2. Be honest

Deliver your message and profile details with sincerity and truth. You do not want the other person to feel misled the first time you meet! A wrongful buildup to something about you, what you believe or what you are looking for doesn’t help. This honesty extends to photographs. Use images that are recent and reflect your current look. It’s much better to attract fewer people who want to get to know the authentic you than a lot of people to a character you portray as.

3. Let yourself shine

Highlight the fun aspects of your personality. Take pride in what you do and who you are. Everyone has a uniqueness that is all their own. What makes you stand out? Share stories about your travels, your family history, your talents or your adventurous attitude. Everyone has a few standout qualities and these need to be conveyed. Show confidence and conviction in your thoughts and opinions.

4. Mention your hobbies throughout your profile

Instead of creating a generic list of hobbies and interests, I recommend weaving them into your profile to create a deeper narrative of who you are. For example, if you are into photography, mentioning something like “I spent a week in New York shooting street style during Fashion Week” works well. Not only does it communicate your hobby, but also the patience and effort you are willing to invest in it. You are communicating that you enjoy travel as well.

5. Ask friends & family to chime in

Those closest to you love you for many reasons and likely see things in you that you may not see in yourself. Allow your circle to review your profile and take into consideration their insights into your personality and the kind of friend you are.

6. Don’t share everything (leave something for your first date)

Having plans and goals in life is a good thing, but sharing all of them with others before you get to know them probably isn’t the best idea. It might communicate a lack of desire to change or be flexible. Keep an open mind. You might come across some really wonderful people that you didn’t realize you could appreciate until you met them.

7. Stay away from overused language – be original

Being “down to earth” may be great, but don’t mention it. It’s overused. You don’t want to come across as bland. Try to use language that flows from you authentically.

8. Saying you are embarrassed to be online is a no-no

If you are embarrassed about being online and socializing, do not go online. It is a cardinal sin to say “I can’t believe I’m here” on your summary because it implies that you hold those who use it in low esteem (including yourself).

9. Keep sexually provocative photos offline

Potential dates want a clear picture of your face, and they want to learn something about you and your nature through the pictures they see. Photos that are overtly sexual and reveal too much skin can communicate negative ideas about who you are and what your intentions are. You want to find someone who finds your persona and make up as an individual attractive in addition to the exterior.

[Lead image via Elite Daily]