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Tips for Basic Members

Tuesday, October 13th, 2009

A Star Membership makes it easier to meet people on our site, but there are lots of FREE ways that Basic members can improve their HOT or NOT profile and their overall experience on the site.

Add more photos: It’s totally FREE to add more photos to your HOT or NOT profile! You might look entirely different from one shot to the next and adding more pictures lets people see more aspects of your personality, style, and lifestyle. For example, are you outdoors a lot, or always hanging out at a pub, or constantly snapping shots of yourself while pumping iron?

Beef up your intro: There’s nothing lamer than a profile intro that says “I’ll fill this in later,” or “I have nothing to say.” These intros send a strong message that the user is not serious about meeting people on the site, or sharing things about his/her life, interests, or personality. It might also be interpreted as complacency, or laziness – probably not the message you want to broadcast if you’re actually on the site to meet people.

By popular request, we have recently extended the length of the intros. So, those users who wish to keep things short and sweet (but still captivating!), can certainly do so, while long-winded users now have the freedom to express themselves, without feeling constrained by a 500-word limit.

Poke someone you think is hot: Poking someone is fun, simple, and – best of all – FREE! Poking one of your Double-Matches is a good way to let someone know that you like their profile. If you’re a bit shy, this is a great way to get someone’s attention – even better if you can follow it up with a message.

Send a FREE note to someone: It’s totally FREE for a Basic member to contact a Star Member, since only one person needs to have a paid account to correspond through our messaging feature. But, if you’ve seen a profile of someone you just can’t resist and you’re both Basic members, you can still let them know you think they’re groovy by clicking on the “Send Note” link below their profile picture on your Double-Matches page. One of you will need to purchase a Star Membership if you want the correspondence to continue beyond the initial note (and hopefully you do!), but it’s still a great way to say something nice to someone without spending a dime.

How to Make the Most of your Star Membership

Thursday, September 24th, 2009

Purchasing a Star Membership makes it easier to connect with people (hot single ladies, sexy unattached guys) on HOT or NOT, but it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll instantly amass Double-Matches and find your dream date. A Star Membership is like a toolbox: it offers you useful gadgets that will help you accomplish your goal (meeting a hottie), but it can’t do all the work for you. You need to exert a little effort and creative elbow grease in order to make the most of the perks included in your subscription. You’ve already purchased it, so you might as well use it!

Just Say “Yes”: You’ll increase your chances of getting more Double-Matches if you click “Yes” to lots of profiles in the Meet People section. Obviously, not everyone can be your soul mate, but you can still use HOT or NOT to make new friendships and connections. And remember, just because you said “Yes” to someone, it doesn’t necessarily mean that s/he will accept your request; so, clicking “Yes” to lots of people increases your odds, since you may only have success with a couple of them.

HoN Tip: Our new search feature makes it easier for people to meet local singles and find love. Just enter your city or zip code in the location field and select a distance (50 miles, 500 miles, etc.) from the drop-down menu. You can also mix things up and browse profiles from all around the world by entering “Everywhere” instead of a location. This way, you might see a profile from Sydney, one from Johannesburg, and one from San Francisco, all in the same search results.

Send messages to your Half-Matches: So, you’ve clicked “Yes” to a stellar hottie and your profile will now end up in his/her Half-Matches page (where it will anxiously await reciprocity). Why not stand out and send the person a Half-Match message? These are short (250 characters, max) messages that give you an opportunity to let a girl know that she’s caught your attention. But don’t cop out and send the same message to everyone: send personalized messages that let the recipient know who you are and why you are interested in his/her profile. Sure, you’ve got the looks, but people want to get a sense of someone’s personality as well, and this is your chance to let your individuality shine. Make note of her style, or his stunning eyes, or the keywords you both have in common – let that user know that you’ve noticed something unique about him/her and avoid simply pointing out the fact that she’s super-hot, or he’s got tight abs. Be genuine, not generic.

Send a virtual gift: All Star Memberships include a Star Gift Pack, rammed with a variety of e-flowers that you can send to your sweetie. The web version of a tulip might not smell as sweet as the real thing, but it’s still a nice gesture that lets someone know you think s/he’s pretty special.

Stay in touch with your Double-Matches: Once someone has accepted your meet request, you’ll become Double-Matches. Yay! From here, you can start getting to know each other by sending longer messages through our messaging feature. Unlimited messaging is included in all Star Memberships, but, again, be sure to make each message unique and point out some specifics that you liked about his or her profile or pictures. Remember that if you’re a Basic (FREE) member, you can still email your Double-Matches, as long as the other person is a Star Member.

HoN Tip: Don’t include your personal email address in the first message. This is typical spam behavior (you don’t want someone to think you’re a fake!) and people usually like to get to know their Double-Matches on our site before corresponding through their personal email accounts.

Good luck!

First Date Don’ts (Girls’ Edition)

Monday, September 14th, 2009

We know how stressful a first date can be. The nerve-wracking, anxiety-inducing few of hours leading up to the big meeting can be a lot to handle. Whether it’s a blind date or someone with whom you’ve had building chemistry for weeks or even months, we all want to make a positive first impression. Here’s a list of things that you should avoid on a first date to make sure you impress that man.

• This should go without saying, but don’t scrimp on dolling yourself up. Looking good will help you feel good about yourself, and that confidence boost is sure to translate into a more enjoyable and relaxed first date. Of course, if this guy already knows that you’re a HOT or NOT 10, then you’ve got nothing to worry about.
• Ladies, you may be nervous, but you need to cool it with the 3^rd degree. This is a casual date, not a job interview. Put aside your list of questions (because does it really matter yet where he sees himself ten years from now?), relax, and he’ll get a much more accurate idea of what you’re about.
• Whether or not you’re the most die-hard believer in astrology, forget the fact that you’re a Taurus and he’s an Aquarius and that you two are meant to be. To be safe, you’re best off not talking signs. Guys tend to think it’s a bit nutty.
• Never tell your date how much you like him. There’s no better way to scare them off (except maybe talking about your exes and delving into past relationships).
• Monitor your alcohol intake. There’s nothing like a little social lubricant to ease things along on the first date, but if you know you’re a light-weight, things could take a disastrous turn if you overdo it with the vodka tonics. Just keep your eye on it, that’s all we’re sayin’.
• At the end of the night, no matter how well the date goes and how much tension there is, don’t invite him over, and don’t accept any invitations to his place, because we know how things will end. Kiss him on the cheek and book it for home! You’re looking to building a lasting relationship (unless, you know, you’re not – then you have our blessing to tap that).

Now that you’ve read this refresher, you’re going to knock that man out and leave him wanting more after date one. Hopefully he’s brushed up on his first date don’ts. Do you ladies have any other first date tips to share? Leave a comment!

How to break the ice in online dating

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009

Approaching a sexy lady is a tricky thing that often leaves guys unsure of what to do. But as nerve-wracking as it in real life, you’ve got time to be cool and calculated when you’re making a move online. Once you’ve been Double-Matched with that special someone on HOT or NOT and it’s time to strike up a conversation, how do you go about it?

The popular opinion of online dating service users dictates that pouring your soul out in five paragraphs as an introductory message is usually met with one overwhelming response – silence. Despite how personal and sincere this message might be, you’re better off saving your life story for later. Use the same logic in meeting matches online that you’d apply to approaching a cutie who catches your eye at the bar – “If I told you that you had a nice body, would you hold it against me?”

Well, that is if cheesy pick-up lines are your thing (and there’s plenty more where that comes from). But if cheesy pick-up lines have got one thing right it’s that they’re brief – a single line meant to charm your potential catch into striking up an actual conversation.

So, what’s the ideal ice-breaker when you’re messaging someone online for the first time?

• You can’t go wrong with something witty or something that’s sure to get a laugh.
• Ask a relevant question based on your match’s keywords or introduction – you’ve gotta prove that you’re paying attention.
• Write something about yourself that the other person will find intriguing (boys, women can’t resist intrigue).
• Feel free to compliment the other person’s appearance, but don’t be a creep! We hate to break it to you, but telling a girl “you’ve got great boobs” ain’t gonna get you anywhere.
• In fact, don’t mention sex at all.
• Keep it general, so the other person can easily find a related thought or topic to respond with.
• You’re doing this online – so there’s no excuse not to rock your confidence.

If the lady likes cooking, you can write: “I’m no master chef, but I’ve been trying to learn authentic Chinese cuisine. What are some of your favorite recipes? Maybe we can swap. By the way, you have a lovely smile.”

If she’s a sports buff like you, you can write “I’m into hiking, camping, and skiing, but that’s only a portion of what I do in my spare time. Maybe we have more than a love for sports in common…what else are you into?”

If she says she’s an animal lover, you can write: “Do you think you can tame this beast, baby?” …but we wouldn’t expect an answer if we were you.

You get the idea. And even if it wasn’t meant to be, then at least being met with silence on HOT or NOT is nowhere near as harsh as getting rejected to your face, amiright?

What’s the best opening line you’ve ever heard?

Meeting People is Easy

Thursday, August 27th, 2009

Let’s get back to basics, HOT or NOTers. Whether you’re looking for a friend, a potential hook-up, casual dating, or a relationship, you’ve come to the right place to meet people – but how do you make a splash in this sea of eligible hotties? There are some basic criteria that make for a HOT or NOT profile that’s sure to send some attention your way.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. It’s simple: putting up a picture of your cute mug is half the game. It’s certainly enough to pique the interest of a guy or girl looking to meet someone new. So, you caught his or her attention. Now what?

Looks don’t tell you much about your compatibility with another person, but that’s where the rest of the profile comes in. Get as specific as you can with your keywords since they provide a great indicator of whether two of you have any shared interests that could easily spark a conversation. For instance, these  -

are a bit more informative than these -

Your HOTList is another great feature that can get your interests out there.

Lastly, the Introduction box gives you free reign to write whatever you’d like about yourself, and you should put it to good use. It’s a great opportunity to give someone a glimpse into what you’re about. This intro -

is a lot more convincing than this one -

Write something funny, charming, and honest to entice someone to message you.

Expanding your Keywords and Introduction makes things easier for someone trying to come up with an idea for a first message that you won’t be able to resist replying to. It’s like the online equivalent of getting swept off your feet. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to meeting the best matches HOT or NOT’s got for you.

If you have any other helpful tips to share, then don’t be greedy and let us in on ‘em in the comments!

Find us on Facebook

Tuesday, March 31st, 2009

BECOME A FAN OF HOT OR NOT ON FACEBOOK!

Join our fan page for the latest news, hottest tips and to talk to other HOT or NOT Fans….

Check it out now and tell all your friends too. Rock on.

HOT or NOT Facebook App. Hotter then ever!

Thursday, March 26th, 2009

FACEBOOK APP HOTTER THEN EVER!

Great news! (and it’s about time …) We’ve TOTALLY redesigned the HOT or NOT App!

Improved graphics. Improved search. Totally new look. Now, you can rate and meet hotties on Facebook as easy as 1,2,3.

Check it out now and then invite your friends to join in all the fun too.

Enjoy. Have fun.

The HOT or NOT Team

New & Improved! Share a hottie is even better …

Wednesday, February 25th, 2009

SHARE A HOTTIE IS BETTER THEN EVER!

Have you come across a hottie you just think is soooo HOT? And, you just need to share them with all your friends? Well, we’ve made it easier and better then ever to do so.

How did we do it? We added a NEW FEATURE that enables you to spread the hotness of HOT or NOT to all your friends – ADDRESS BOOK IMPORTER! (insert applause here).

Step 1: Click “Share by Email” (located under the hottie you want to share).
Step 2: Based on how you roll, click on either the “Add from my address book” button, or click on the “To” link.
Step 3: Choose the appropriate program or service you use for email.
Step 4: Add your contacts.
Step 5: Add a personalized message and hit “send”. Voila! You just shared a hottie!

Just follow those simple steps and you’ll become a hero amongst your friends. You’ll be known as “that guy” who spreads hotness to each of them everyday by sending new hotties. Psst. click “Yes” before you start sharing, as ya know your friends will be hitting that too.

So, what are you waiting for? Go share those hotties!

We're #1! Well, #4.

Tuesday, January 27th, 2009

It’s been a few short days since we launched the HOT or NOT iPhone App and already iTunes lists it as the #4 Social Networking app. w00t!

That’s behind Facebook, MySpace and AIM. Just you wait AOL, we’re coming after YOU!

We’ve been thrilled with the response. We’ve even had to add more moderators to get all your profiles approved at our usual lighting-quick rate of 10-15 minutes.

iPhone photos are starting to pepper the site, especially in some regions of the country and even the world. Like France! We had no idea you were so iPhone crazy. Alors, bonjour mes frères!

We’re thinking of having a contest for the best photo of you TAKEN on your iPhone that INCLUDES your iPhone. Whaddaya think?

Want to see what the fuss is all about? It’s free, so get it now!

Is That a HOTTIE In Your Pocket?

Thursday, January 22nd, 2009

HOT or NOT is VERY proud to announce our…

FREE, SUPER-HOT IPHONE APP!

It’s all of HOT or NOT’s rating and dating goodness in your pocket.

We worked like dogs on this thing for months, paying special attention to making it rocket fast even on very slow connections. We know that sometimes you’ve got to respond to a potential date right away, and we are NOT going to let the network come between you and your love life.

Wanna know if you’re HOT? Upload a photo right from the app and bam! You’ll get rated from 1 to 10 by millions of people in classic HOT or NOT fashion.

See a smokin’ hot person you want to meet? Just tap “YES” and we’ll let them know. It’s that simple.

Key features include:

• RATE millions of members from all over the world
• GET RATED – Just upload your photos even from your iPhone!
• DATE thousands of hot people in your hood or anywhere
• EMAIL and message people right within the app
• BUY & SEND virtual gifts
• Syncs with existing HOT or NOT accounts – Just log in!
• It’s EASY, FAST and FREE!

We personally in the HOT or NOT offices love the thing. We’ve been using it out the wazoo for months now, waiting for Apple to approve it (they have a huge backlog). Now that they’ve finally gotten around to our app, we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you!

Download the App now using iTunes!

More Screenshots

The rating screen

Looking for something specific? Search by keyword.

Add photos right from the app. We LOVE doing this, it’s so fast and easy.

Some of the dashboard. You can manage all of your HOT or NOT account from here!

Go ahead and download the app now using iTunes!

Love,
The HOT or NOT team