Haven’t Made Any Matches on Bumble Yet? Here’s What to Do

Picture this: you download Bumble, set up your profile, and get excited to meet your matches. Then: crickets. You know it’s not you (you’re great!). So what gives? Often, the solution lies in taking a few easy steps to get the most out of the app. The more information you share, the better chance you’ll have at connecting with like-minded people. Here are eight things you can do right now that could help you get more Bumble matches.

Include all six photos 

The pictures you upload to your Bumble profile are the quickest way to show potential matches who you are and what you’re about. Using all six photo slots is the best way to do this. But remember to keep the camera lens on you. The majority of photos—and especially the first one—should be of you, and you alone, so that potential matches know that it’s your profile. And don’t forget to smile!

If you really want to up your game, turn on Bumble’s Best Photo feature. This feature ascertains which of your first three Bumble profile photos is more likely to get right swipes—or likes—and then puts that photo at the top of your profile. Turn this feature on by clicking on the gray silhouette on the bottom right, and clicking “Complete my profile.” Underneath your photo section will be the Best Photo button. Simply toggle it on! Doing this, along with completing your profile, can improve your chances of making matches and finding your next connection. (See more of our best Bumble photo tips here.)

Take advantage of those profile prompts

The more information you share on your profile, the more opportunities you have to showcase your personality. This, in turn, may increase your chances of connecting with people who share similar interests. That’s why Bumble has over 40 Profile Prompts, allowing you to post your answers to up to three of them on your profile. When crafting your responses, you’ll want to be thoughtful. Answering that your perfect first date is “whatever you want” could come across as aloof. Instead, give matches a glimpse into your lifestyle by letting them know “grabbing iced coffees and taking our dogs to the local dog run” is how you prefer to get to know someone. Plus, your answers can help get the conversation started.

Add the maximum number of badges

In addition to profile prompts, Bumble offers 10 Basic Info Badges, signifying details like your height, location, and what type of connection you’re seeking. For some people, differing political affiliations or views on wanting kids are deal-breakers, and it’s best to know that information up front so you can find matches who really complement you, and vice versa. You can also add up to five Interest Badges to give potential matches even more insight into your lifestyle, like the fact that you value environmentalism and are family-oriented. Using these Badges makes it more likely you’ll appear in other daters’ searches and connect with people who share similar interests.

Fill out your bio

Now that you’ve covered the “big picture” stuff with the above pointers, it’s time to fill out your bio section. If you’re struggling with what to write, start by elaborating on one of your interests. If you selected “stand-up” for an Interest Badge, share a little about the improv class you’re taking. If you marked ambition as one of your values, mention a goal you’re working toward. Keep in mind the type of match you’re hoping to attract. Looking for someone who makes you laugh? Incorporate a few jokes. Activism really important to you? Add a sentence about the last rally you attended. The key here is to highlight what truly matters to you.

Get verified

No one wants to be catfished, which is why getting your Bumble profile verified is important. The process is easy. Just click “Edit Profile” and tap “Verify Your Account.” You’ll then be prompted with several photo poses, and asked to submit a selfie mimicking one of your choosing. Once it’s reviewed and approved by our team, you’ll see a blue checkmark show up next to your name. That’s it. You’re official!   

Upgrade your membership

There aren’t enough hours in the day, which can make it hard to prioritize dating. Luckily, Bumble offers two paid subscription upgrades that can help you avoid any missed connections. Bumble Boost allows you to extend your matches beyond the initial 24 hours given, rematch with expired matches, and use Spotlight to ensure your profile is seen by more daters. Bumble Premium does all that, plus you can see if someone swiped right on you, and get access to Advanced Filters, Travel Mode, and Incognito Mode.

Make filters work for you

Making use of Bumble’s filters can help narrow down your search to include like-minded daters. To access them, click the gray hive symbol at the bottom of your screen, and then tap on the icon located in the top right-hand corner. Scroll down to ‘Filters’ and select which ones you’re interested in applying. Standard filters cover the basics, including age and (in many regions) distance. If you have a Bumble Premium subscription, you can get more specific about what you’re looking for with Advanced Filters. If you’re passionate about exercise, employ the fitness filter to see matches who also prioritize working out. Is astrology your thing? We’ve got a star sign filter that can help you find someone with your most compatible sign.

Use Spotlight and SuperSwipe

It’s basic math: the more people see your profile, the more chances you have to match with someone. That’s where Bumble’s Spotlight feature comes in. Activating it will advance your profile to the top of the stack to be viewable by more people instantly for up to 150 minutes—all without anyone knowing. SuperSwipe is another feature that comes in handy when you’re particularly interested in someone. SuperSwiping their profile will notify someone that their profile caught your eye and that you want to match. You’ll also be one of the first profiles they see the next time they open Bumble, which can help you to stand out. Both features are included in Bumble Boost and Bumble Premium subscriptions. Spotlight can also be purchased independently by tapping on the gray silhouette on the bottom of your screen and then selecting Spotlight. 

By showcasing your full authentic self, it’ll be easier for potential matches to spot any similarities and shared interests. When you’re more certain you’re compatible from the start, you can focus on planning that first date!