Hinge: Am I a Standout?

The Reality of the "Standout" Status

One of the most intriguing aspects of Hinge is the mysterious "Standout" feature. If you've been using the app for a while, you’ve likely noticed a section called “Standouts,” which showcases a select group of users that Hinge thinks you will like based on your activity. But here’s the thing: not everyone makes it into the Standout section, and those who do often seem to possess a certain combination of qualities that grab attention.

What is the secret sauce? The answer is not just in your physical appearance, but also how your profile communicates a narrative. Hinge users are not merely swiping for the most attractive person; they are seeking connection, shared values, and personality. But does that mean if you're not getting shown as a "Standout," you're doing something wrong? Not necessarily. However, there are strategic steps you can take to improve your visibility.

What the Algorithm Really Likes

The Hinge algorithm, much like that of other dating apps, is designed to prioritize engagement. If you’re wondering whether your profile gets lost in a sea of users, consider this: Hinge pays attention to how often your profile is liked, how you interact with others, and whether you are actively engaging with the app. It uses this information to predict your preferences and match you accordingly.

So how can you become a standout? Here are a few areas to focus on:

1. Profile Photos
   The right photos can make or break your profile. According to data, Hinge users who feature clear, well-lit photos that highlight their interests or unique personality traits receive significantly more likes. Aim for a balance of candid and posed shots, and be sure to include one or two photos that show you doing something you’re passionate about. Hinge loves authenticity, so ditch the overly filtered selfies and instead showcase moments that tell a story about who you are.

2. Prompt Answers
   Hinge offers a set of prompts designed to help users spark conversations. To stand out, it's crucial that you answer these prompts thoughtfully. Witty, humorous, or unexpected answers that offer a glimpse into your personality tend to get more engagement. Don’t be afraid to showcase a bit of vulnerability or humor in your answers, as it humanizes you and makes you more relatable.

3. Engagement and Activity
   If you’re not using the app regularly, you’re missing out on the opportunity to increase your visibility. Hinge rewards active users by showing them to more people. Liking profiles, responding to messages, and sending meaningful comments will boost your chances of appearing in more people’s feeds.

4. Profile Completeness
   A fully completed profile, including details about your job, location, education, and interests, significantly increases your odds of being noticed. Hinge’s algorithm favors complete profiles because it gives the app more data to make better match suggestions for you. So, if you’ve left any sections blank, it’s time to fill them in.

Behavioral Insights: What Do Users Want?

According to Hinge, users prioritize three major qualities when evaluating a potential match: authenticity, humor, and shared interests. While physical attraction is important, more users are looking for compatibility based on lifestyle and values.

• Authenticity: Users who come across as genuine, whether in their photos or prompt answers, tend to receive more likes. This means avoiding clichés and focusing on who you really are.
• Humor: If you can make someone laugh through your profile, you’re more likely to stand out. Funny profiles tend to attract a higher number of likes and comments, as humor helps break the ice.
• Shared Interests: Mentioning your hobbies, travel experiences, or quirky interests can create instant connections with others who share similar passions.

The "Standouts" Tab: How It Works

Hinge introduced the "Standouts" tab to help users discover profiles that might be a good match based on specific behaviors, likes, and algorithmic insights. This section is curated and updated daily, showing you potential matches that Hinge thinks you're likely to engage with. But here's the catch: not everyone can access it, and it can be hard to consistently appear in this section without optimizing your profile.

How to Get Noticed More Frequently

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what makes a profile stand out, let’s explore how you can increase your chances of appearing in the “Standouts” tab or simply gaining more attention from the right people.

1. Boost Your Profile
   Hinge offers a feature called "Boost," which increases the visibility of your profile for a limited time. Using a boost at strategic times, such as during the evening when more users are active, can help you gain more likes and increase your profile’s ranking.

2. Utilize Rose Reactions
   The “Rose” feature allows you to send a standout like to someone you’re particularly interested in. Users who send roses are often more likely to get noticed by those they send them to. However, you have a limited number of roses, so be sure to use them wisely.

3. Be Active During Peak Times
   Just like with any social platform, there are peak times when most users are online. Weekdays between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. tend to be the most active times on dating apps like Hinge. Make sure you’re engaging during these windows to maximize your visibility.

Data Insights: What Really Works

Hinge recently published a report on the most successful profiles, and a few key insights stood out:

From this data, we can see that a combination of good photos, thoughtful prompt answers, and regular activity can dramatically increase your chances of becoming a standout.

Final Thoughts: The Key to Success

To wrap it all up, standing out on Hinge isn’t just about having a good-looking profile—it’s about showcasing your personality, being authentic, and engaging with others in meaningful ways. Whether you're looking to boost your chances of appearing in the "Standouts" tab or simply want more matches, focusing on these aspects will help you achieve success on the app.

2222:Hinge's Standout Feature: How to Get Noticed More Often