Write_Personal

How to Write a Great Personals Ad

Not sure what to write in your personal ad ?

Here are some suggestions:

Do...

Describe yourself - Think of what you'd want to know about someone and answer
those questions about yourself. People are more likely to respond to your ad if
they are attracted by something you've told them about you.

Show - don't tell. Instead of saying you "like music, movies, and restaurants,"
offer specific examples.

Be creative - Make your ad stand out by including a special quote or describing
your most intriguing feature or most memorable experiences. If you have a sense
of humor, don't just say so; show it ! Have fun with your ad.

Pay attention to spelling and grammar. People are more likely to take your ad
seriously if you've put some thought into it. First, be spontaneous, then read it
over.

Don't...

Don't lie - You are better off telling the truth in your ad. Honesty can prevent
disappointment for both you and your potential date. Just remember - you could
end up meeting someone who reads your ad, so don't say you're 6'1" if you're
really 5'4".

Don't write your life history - Write enough about yourself to catch someone's
attention. Don't include detailed, personal information.

Never include your address and phone number in an ad. If you decide you want to
give out personal information in future correspondence, be sure you're giving it to
someone you can trust.

Sample Great Ads

Woman Seeking Man

Hi! I'm a 27-year-old, never-married, fun-loving woman who lives and works (very
hard) in the San Francisco Bay Area. I'm 5'7", 120 pounds with black hair, blue
eyes, and bright green-painted toenails.

I love all types of movies; the best ones I've seen lately include "Run Lola Run"
and "Bowfinger," and my all-time favorites include "Braveheart and "It's a
Wonderful Life." I'm a huge music fan and love Dave Matthews Band, Cake, Tom
Petty, Susan Tedeschi, and Gipsy Kings. I've been known to get a little crazy at
concerts; I even kissed Garth Brooks on the cheek after a show! Of course, I was
only 16, so, forgive me. :-)

My favorite book is "The Killer Angels," and I can't wait to finish reading
"Hannibal." I want to learn to play the guitar, speak Spanish, and snow ski with
grace.

What I value most in my life is my rather large family, the Earth, and my hobby --
photography. One day, I hope to become the coolest, sexiest mom with a van full
of kids that you've ever seen. So, if ! you love mushroom ravioli, romantic nights
by a fire, and springtime camping trips, please reply! I prefer an honest man
between ages 27 and 35 who wants kids, enjoys the same things I enjoy, lives
nearby, and can appreciate a woman who's often been called "refreshing."

Man Seeking Woman

Are you looking for a sensitive man who'll really listen to you after a hard day's
work? Look no further! I'm good looking: 6'1", blonde, brown eyes, dark skin, nice
lips. I may not be the smartest man in the world, but I work hard in every facet of
my life.

I'm also divorced with no children. I guarantee I can change the oil in your car in
10 minutes flat. Just looking for a woman who appreciates Sunday picnics,
baseball games, fine French dining, Broadway shows, casual BBQ dinners on my
porch, and a little imperfection every now and then.