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Ask Dating Coach Erika: What dating app seems to have the best luck in finding a partner?

Erika Ettin, Tribune News Service on

Published in Lifestyles

Another day, another set of dating questions.

Question: What dating app seems to have the best luck in finding a partner?

Answer: You may not love my answer, but it's not about luck or "finding" someone. It's about being proactive and using the apps efficiently. You can be successful, or unsuccessful, on any app depending on how thoughtfully you have filled out your profile, the messages you are sending, the frequency with which you log in, the quality of the conversations you're having, and the criteria you use to decide who to meet.

All of that said, the most popular app among my clients right now is Hinge, then Bumble.

But you can also find success on Tinder, Match, Raya, Breeze, Coffee Meets Bagel -- really whatever you want to use.

Q: If you have never really been in a serious relationship (I’m 37), how would you let your dates know?

A: I don't feel that is something you need to share proactively. (And notice l always use the word “share” and not “disclose.”) At some point, when you feel comfortable with each other, you may start talking about your past. But everyone has to start somewhere. And even if someone has a lot of relationship experience, for every two people, they are both inexperienced with each other. I don't want this to hold you back.

Q: How do I not lose hope that I'II find the right person?

A: I understand how frustrating it can feel sometimes. Here are answers that go in two different directions:

Every day is the day before you might meet someone amazing, so you do have to continue putting yourself out there if you want to give yourself the best chance to meet somebody.

 

But also, I want you to live your life as if you are not going to meet that person. Have full friendships and hobbies and creative outlets. Don't wait to do the things that you want to do, like travel and learn, just because you don't have a partner right now. Doing that will help you feel like you don't have a lack in your life... and, in turn, it will make you more confident and interesting if and when you do meet that person.

Q: I’m considering shaving my beard/changing my hair style. Bad idea while talking to people on apps?

A: Totally fine! But you have to update your photos accordingly. All of them. But particularly your first. People can't picture what other people look like with or without facial hair or with a different hairstyle. (This advice is for everyone.)

And if you have started talking to someone and then made this change, simply update the profile as recommended, and mention it in the chat. "Hey, before we meet, I just wanted to let you know that I just shaved my beard and updated my picture to show what I look like now." Of course, you do run the risk that the people you are currently talking to will no longer be interested because some people really like beards! And that is their prerogative.

Q: My cat recently passed away. Still grieving but have pics w/him on my profile. OK to leave up for now?

A: First, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Having lost my Scruffy dog two years ago, I understand that unique pain.

I would remove the photos of you and your cat from your profile. Not because they aren't recent, and not because they aren't relevant. But because it will bring up feelings for you every time someone asks.

Simply mention in your profile that you love cats, and that will do the trick. Hang in there.


©2026 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

 

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