The analogy of table manners is the same as having an organized and logical profile. Now this doesn't need to be an eloquent five-paragraph essay, but just like in meeting someone face to face you have only seconds to impress that person. So choose your words wisely. Avoid swearing or using slang (at least use them sparingly), stick to point, and don't bore your reader with details.

More importantly, be creative.

Avoid describing yourself in a generic or clich way. Your profile is like a research project. For starters read the profiles of ten other men or women that you consider competitors because of your similar characteristics. For each person make a list of items they mention in their profile. You will most likely see that people write about the same types of things, for example interesting books or movies, enjoying travel or Chinese food. These things that you see over and over again are items that you should not mention in your profile. This is your chance to be different.

Similarly find ten men or women whose profiles you like the most and would be interested in getting to know. Again, read each profile carefully and make a list of the things he or she writes about. If you share any of those interests, then you should definitely mention this in your profile.

The point is to make a good impression on your potential connections so that he or she will contact you. Proving that you have a common bond will get them interested and then later you can woo them with your e-mails.

For more dating tips and to sign up for the DatingTales Profile Writing Service visit the DatingTales Online Dating Guide.