Writing your first message can be intimidating, and it can be the difference between getting a first date and being ignored. Don't worry, we're here to help at Love2Date Singles. Read on to discover some quick tips that will help you put together your first message.

Keep the Message Short

When writing your first message, keep in mind that you are writing to a stranger. Perhaps you've been pining over their profile for a few days, and maybe you've already planned out a lovely future with them, but the odds are that your own existence was previously undetected.

While you may be tempted to write about your every hope and dream, a lengthy message can be intimidating. Write more than a paragraph or two, and he or she may not even bother to read it. Instead, keep your message brief. You don't need to try to sell yourself; that's your profile's job.

Use Correct Grammar

Using "text talk," poor grammar and bad spelling leaves your reader with a terrible first impression. This isn't the time to be lazy and really, how much time are you saving by typing "ur" instead of "your?" Instead, focus on using proper grammar and spelling, and you are far more likely to receive a response.

There is, however, an exception to the "no text talk" rule, and that is the use of "haha" and "lol." Communicating online is difficult, and humour that is clearly evident in a face-to-face interaction can be lost in an online message. Adding a "haha" when appropriate can convey a sense of humour and lighten the overall tone of your message.

Stand Out from the Crowd

Chances are that the recipient of your message is also fielding contacts from others. A generic, impersonal message is pretty unlikely to get a response. By making sure that your message stands out, you can increase your chances that it will not only be read, but may receive a response.

Get Creative with the Subject Line

Your subject line is your first impression's first impression. Everyone else is putting "hi" and "hello" in the subject line, if they insert anything at all. Stand out from the crowd by showing some humour or creativity.

Avoid Physical Compliments

Compliments are generally nice; however, compliments on physical appearance from a stranger can be off-putting. By focusing on physical appearance, you may come across as shallow.

Discuss Shared Interests

Discussing one or two shared interests in your first message is a great way to show that you actually took the time to read his or her profile. By sharing that you, too, have an affinity for long walks through the city, you can quickly build a sense of camaraderie with your prospective date. Discussing common interests puts your reader at ease and paves the way for future conversations.

Don't Forget to Ask Questions

The most thoughtful, well-constructed message may fail to receive a response if you make it difficult for the recipient of your message to put together their own reply. This can be as simple as asking a question pertaining to one of their interests, or as courageous as asking them on a date.

Including a few questions and asking for a response may feel intimidating; after all, you are risking rejection. However, not doing so can leave your recipient feeling unsure of how or even whether to respond to your message.