A Tinder dating expert and matchmaker has highlighted two key red flags singles should watch for when browsing profiles on the app. With endless profiles available, many users make snap judgments—maybe a cute dog draws them in, or a disliked movie leads them to swipe left. However, dating expert Paul Brunson advises being mindful of two significant indicators when assessing profiles.
The Rise of Online Dating
In an interview with UNILAD, Paul shared his belief that online dating will remain popular, noting, “Our lives are more online now than they were 30, 50, or 100 years ago, and the trend shows we’ll spend even more time online in the future… so online connections are here to stay.”
Dating Profile Red Flags
Although Paul is married, his work with Tinder has given him insight into what makes or breaks a profile.
Incomplete Profiles
The first red flag, he says, is a profile with minimal information. While people might not want to share everything, an incomplete profile can feel evasive. “It’s a big deal,” he said. “For instance, having only one photo instead of several, or leaving info sections blank.” Sparse profiles can leave potential matches unsure of even basic details.
Lists of ‘Don’ts’
Paul’s second warning is against profiles listing everything they don’t want in a partner. Negative statements like “Don’t contact me if you’re married” focus on what’s unwelcome rather than what’s valued. Instead, he advises expressing values directly, saying, “It’s about standards—stating, ‘I’m looking for marriage’ differs from ‘Don’t contact me if you’re married,’ which hints at insecurity or trust issues.”
Being Open About Dating
Paul encourages people to “express who you are” and be open about their relationship goals, advising, “If it’s meaningful to you, embrace it.” Yet, he acknowledges that sharing dating details with friends or family can feel different, as “social circles aren’t as tight-knit as in the past.”
Research by Tinder and the NGO NO MORE shows that 75% of single women hesitate to discuss dating with close friends and family, while 57% openly share with strangers in casual settings. Paul noted, “People look for spaces where they can get unbiased feedback.”
To support open conversations about dating, Tinder is launching a pop-up nail salon called “Nailing Dating” in London from October 25-26. The salon will offer free workshops with guidance on discussing dating openly with a trusted circle.