8 Best Ways to Start a Conversation on Tinder
So you’ve matched with someone cute on Tinder.
And now you wonder — how on earth should I start the chat and get a conversation going?
Starting a conversation on Tinder can be tricky.
Knowing how to start a conversation on Tinder is a key step on the app.
If you don’t send first messages that successfully start conversations with matches, then you surely you won’t be scheduling any first dates.
On Tinder, there’s a lot you can do to craft a compelling and engaging opener to kick things off and to write follow-up messages that keep the convo going.
Your match’s profile gives you some info to work with when it comes to sending a good opener and coming up with things to talk about.
Even still, it’s not always clear what to talk about with a new match.
So, let’s make that more clear and give you the intel you need to start the convo off strong with your next Tinder match.
Here are our 8 best ways to start a conversation on Tinder.
1. Ask an Open-Ended Question
The best way to start a conversation on Tinder is by asking an open-ended question.
Questions are the heart of conversation in everyday life.
And the same idea goes for conversations on Tinder.
Asking open-ended questions encourages your match with to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with you.
For example, instead of asking if they like traveling (a yes/no question), ask about their favorite travel destination or where they’d like to go next (an open-ended question).
By doing so, you create an opportunity for deeper discussion and increase the chances of getting a rich response.
Remember, finding common ground can be a great way to start a meaningful conversation and increase feelings of chemistry, so ask questions that’ll help you figure out what you and your match have in common.
2. Compliment Your Match Wisely
Another effective way to start a conversation on Tinder is by offering a genuine compliment.
But definitely do not focus your compliment solely on physical appearance.
Instead, try complimenting their interests or a specific aspect of their profile, such as a creative bio or a unique hobby.
See them for what’s on the inside.
By doing this, you demonstrate that you’ve taken the time to read their profile and are genuinely interested in them.
Also, being specific with your compliments can make your conversation stand out from other generic messages.
The more unique your compliment is, the better.
To maximize your chances of getting a response on Tinder, send your match a compliment they’ve never heard before.
3. Send a Funny Conversation Starter
Incorporating humor into your first message on Tinder is one of the best ways to break the ice and establish a connection.
Lighthearted jokes or witty one-liners can make your opening message more memorable and enjoyable, plus put your match in a good mood.
If you can make your match laugh or smile, they’ll be more likely to respond positively and continue the conversation.
4. Ask About Travel
When starting a conversation on Tinder, tap into your and your match’s adventurous and cultural interests by talking about travel.
Ask your match about their favorite travel spots, or if they have a dream trip they’d like to take.
For example, you could ask, “What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done while traveling?” or “What places are next on your bucket list to travel to?”
5. Ask About Favorite Books, Movies, or Music
Books, movies, and music are other personal passions that can spark great conversations on Tinder.
Ask about your match’s favorite books or movies to see if you have any common interests or to learn about new things.
For example, you can ask, “What’s your all-time favorite movie, and how many times will you admit you’ve seen it?”
You can talk about music by asking about their favorite artists, concerts, or genres. For example, ask, “What’s your go-to album to listen to when you need a mood boost?” or “Have any concerts you’re hoping to go to this year?”
6. Talk Sports and Fitness
If your Tinder match seems to be into sports or fitness, then you can start a conversation about their favorite team, sport, or workout routine.
You can ask questions like, “What’s your favorite way to stay active?” or “If you had to choose only one sport to follow closely, which would it be and why?”
7. The Time Traveler Opener
When starting a conversation on Tinder, let your playful and creative side shine through.
For example, throw in a playful question, like, “If you could time travel, where would you go?”
This simple question is one of the best ways to start a conversation on Tinder because it can take the convo in so many possible directions.
By revealing your own input and inviting others to share theirs, you’ll quickly establish common ground and spark genuine curiosity.
8. The Parking Ticket Opener
Showing your quirky badass side can be a great icebreaker on Tinder, allowing your potential match to feel more at ease and open up.
Ask an unconventional question like, “What’s the most ridiculous parking ticket you’ve ever received?”
By exploring this kind of unusual petty topic, you create a fun conversation that’s engaging for you and your match.
We’ve all gotten stupid parking tickets, so this is a great topic to chat about for some fun bonding.
How to Maintain a Conversation on Tinder
Once you’ve started a conversation, it’s time to keep it going strong.
Making sure your opening message stands out will increase your odds of keeping you match interested in receiving and sending more follow-up messages.
But remember that you’re not the only one vying for your match’s attention, so put in the effort to show your uniqueness and keep the conversation going.
Being genuinely curious about your match can help maintain the conversation flow.
Ask open-ended questions about their passions, hobbies, and experiences, whether by gathering information from their profile or by drawing from your opener and how your match responds to it.
Maintain a balance between talking about yourself, and listening and responding to your match thoughtfully.
The conversation should feel balanced naturally and have a fluid back and forth.
Ask questions, but don’t let the conversation become a one-sided interview.
Overcoming Struggles in Carrying on a Tinder Conversation
Starting a Tinder conversation may seem intimidating, but just remember that you’re not alone.
It’s tough for nearly everyone.
And that’s ok.
If you encounter a lag in the conversation, don’t panic.
It’s normal for chats to lose steam and die out on Tinder.
After all, Tinder is a numbers game.
Invest your eggs in as many conversations as possible to maximize your chances of any of them staying alive long enough to schedule an actual date.
In any convo, you can keep the chat alive by introducing a new topic every couple of messages to see what catches your match’s interest most.
Finding common ground by discussing new potential shared experiences or interests is a great way to revive the conversation.
Avoid overthinking your responses or trying to come across as ‘perfect.’
People appreciate authenticity, so be yourself, let your personality shine through, and accept that not every Tinder conversation is meant to work out.
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