Imagine this – you've just set up your Bumble profile, ready and eager to make some great matches, but nothing is happening.
So, what's the issue?
Sometimes, all it takes is a few simple adjustments to make your experience on the app more fruitful and match with potential love and friendship interests.
In this article, we will dive into the most common reasons you might not be getting matches, and we will provide some expert tips on how to boost your chances.
Let’s get started!
How Do Bumble Matches Work?
Bumble operates a lot like other dating apps, where you swipe on different profiles to get the chance to talk to and meet the people behind them.
What makes Bumble different? Only women can start conversations in heterosexual matches and they must do so within 24 hours of matching.
Men have the same amount of time to respond. In same-sex matches, on the other hand, either person can start the chat.
This setup keeps things exciting. It pushes users to talk while they have the chance. If one person doesn’t respond within 24 hours, the match disappears.
To keep track of each match, there is a chat icon on the conversations page at the bottom of the Bumble screen.
It will open the Match queue and show the countdown timer under the match's photo. A yellow circle indicates the time left to send or reply to a message.
6 Reasons You Are Not Getting Matches on Bumble
Now, if you're using Bumble and notice that you’re not matching with anyone, it might be time for a profile revamp.
Here's a breakdown of common pitfalls and how you can use the app to your advantage:
#1. Incomplete Profile
An incomplete profile can significantly drop your chances of being shown to potential matches. Bumble's algorithm favors profiles that are detailed and filled out completely.
So, make sure every section of your profile is filled to increase your visibility.
#2. Unflattering Profile Pictures
First impressions are crucial when it comes to online dating. Avoid group shots, photos of you drinking or engaging in other unflattering activities, and selfies that might make you appear self-absorbed.
Instead, choose photos where you're doing what you love and your personality shines through, whether it’s exercising or looking for books at your favorite bookstore. They suggest you're sociable, active, and honest.
For example, a photo of you at a pottery class, showing off a bowl you've just made, not only reflects your interests but also invites conversation about this unique hobby of yours.
#3. Restrictive Settings
If your search settings are too narrow, you could be missing out on great matches.
Consider widening your distance or adjusting your filters. This will let you see a larger variety of profiles.
For example expand your search limit to 20 miles, instead of limiting it to 5 miles. Or instead of filtering only for profiles with college degrees, open up to more educational backgrounds.
This will allow you to see a larger variety of profiles, increasing your chances of finding a compatible match.
#4. Generic Bio and Responses
A creative and unique bio can make your profile stand out. Use Bumble’s prompts to show your personality.
Avoid clichés and try to introduce yourself with humor and originality.
#5. Low Activity Levels
You might think your selectiveness is the issue, but perhaps you're simply not active enough on the app. The more active you are, the more the algorithm will make your profile visible to potential matches.
As such, make sure you stay active and swipe often.
#6. Ignoring Matches
If matches don't receive a response from you, they expire within 24 hours.
Regularly check your app and engage with your matches to keep the conversation going and prevent potential connections from slipping away.
7 Tips to Get More Matches on Bumble
If you want to maximize your Bumble experience, you likely want to increase your matches to the max.
Here are some tried-and-tested tips from our Bumble experts:
#1. Use All Six Photo Slots
The photos you upload to your Bumble profile are the fastest way to show potential matches who you are. They also show what you're about.
Using all six photo slots is a great way to do this, but make sure to keep the camera on you. Most photos, especially the first, should be of you alone. This will show potential matches that it’s your profile instead of getting them to play the guessing game.
Also, consider using Bumble’s Best Photo feature. This handy tool analyzes your first three profile pictures and determines which one is likely to perform the best, then displays it at the top of your profile.
#2. Use Profile Prompts
Sharing more about yourself on your Bumble profile opens up opportunities and allows you to highlight your unique personality. This can increase your chances of connecting with people who share similar interests and values.
Bumble makes this easy by offering over 40 profile prompts. You can post responses to up to three of them and showcase more aspects of your personality.
When crafting your responses, it's important to be thoughtful and let your true self shine through. Giving a vague answer like "whatever you want" for your ideal first date could come across as disinterested.
Instead, give potential matches a glimpse into your lifestyle by describing something specific you enjoy.
For example, you can describe a perfect first date as taking a cooking class together, which shows your interest in culinary arts and willingness to share experiences.
#3. Get Verified
Verifying your account is important. After all, no one wants to be catfished, right?
Go to “Edit Profile” and select “Verify Your Account.” You'll be shown several poses and asked to submit a selfie. Bumble will review it, once approved, a blue checkmark will appear next to your name. Just like that, you’re verified!
#4. Fix Your Bio
If you're not sure what to write in your Bumble bio, start with one of your listed interests.
For example, if you have the "sport" Interest Badge, share details about the gym classes you're taking.
As you're filling out your profile, keep in mind the type of match you hope to attract. If you want someone who can make you laugh, incorporate some humor or witty one-liners.
The key is to highlight the genuine aspects of your personality and list the passions that truly matter to you.
This allows potential matches to see who you are and determine if you'd be a good fit for each other.
#5. Use Filters
Using Bumble's filters can help you find daters who share your interests. To use them, click the gray hive symbol at the bottom of your screen and then tap the icon in the top right-hand corner.
Scroll down to ‘Filters’ and choose the ones you want to apply. The standard filters let you sort by basics like age and, in many areas, distance.
If you subscribe to Bumble Premium, you can use Advanced Filters to be even more specific about what you’re looking for in a match.
#6. Connect Your Social Media Accounts
Show off more of who you are by linking your social media accounts, like Instagram and Spotify, to your profile.
This lets potential matches get a better sense of your personality and helps you connect over shared interests.
#7. Consider Upgrading
Bumble offers two subscription options. Bumble Boost lets you extend matches past the first 24 hours, rematch with expired connections, and use Spotlight to increase your profile’s visibility.
Bumble Premium includes all these features, plus it lets you see who swiped right on you. It gives you access to Advanced Filters, Travel Mode, and Incognito Mode.
Frequently Asked Questions on Bumble
Do you still have some questions about Bumble? Check out our answers below:
#1. Why Do My Bumble Matches Disappear?
One common reason is that if the woman in a heterosexual match doesn't initiate a conversation within 24 hours of the match, it expires. Similarly, if the other person doesn't respond within 24 hours of your initial message, the match will expire.
#2. Can You See Who Viewed Your Account On Bumble?
No, Bumble doesn’t let you see who has viewed your profile. Bumble respects user privacy and keeps such interactions anonymous.
#3. What Do Bumble Matches See When I Snooze My Profile?
When you snooze your Bumble profile, your matches don't see that you've specifically activated the snooze mode. You won't show up in their match queues, however, and you won't appear in swipe sessions while you're snoozed.
#4. Why Is No One Liking Me On Bumble?
If you're not getting likes on Bumble, it could be due to a less visible or incomplete profile, low engagement on the app, or unattractive photos. Make sure your profile is complete, actively engage with the app, and use clear photos that distinctively show you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, boosting your match rate on Bumble isn't just about swiping right - it's about crafting a profile that showcases your personality and interests.
By filling out your profile completely, choosing attractive and engaging photos, and being active on the platform, you increase your chances of making meaningful connections.
Remember, every swipe is an opportunity to find someone special, so make your profile count!