In our research on online dating in Chile, we analyzed over 100,000 first contacts on our sugar daddy dating app and found that first impressions really count. Here are some golden rules that can help you improve your chances in the digital world of love.
In a city like Santiago, where the daily hustle and bustle often leaves no room for romance, or in Valparaíso, where bohemian life inspires more artistic connections, a good first message can make all the difference. Whether you're in Iquique enjoying the sea breeze or in Punta Arenas experiencing the extreme cold, these techniques can be applied anywhere in Chile.
Avoid "Netspeak" and Use Good Expressions
It is not the same to write "ola k ase" as "Hello, how are you". Although Chileans are relaxed when speaking, in a first message you have to take care of the spelling. Words like "ur", "r", "u", "ya", "wat" or "no puedo" are the ones that have the worst response rate. It is not that you have to be so formal, but you have to make the message flow naturally.
However, humor is a great ally. Words like "haha" (45% response rate) and "hahaha" (41%) work quite well. Be careful with "jeje", which although it also works (33%), it can sound like a soap opera villain. Chile is a country where carving is part of the identity, but always with respect and avoiding excessive sarcasm.
Use Authentic and Close Greetings
A "Hello" or "Hi, how are you?" works, but it's a bit formulaic and repetitive. Better personalize your greeting. In Chile, expressions like "Hello, dating app partner!" or "What's up! I saw your profile and had to write you" may sound more natural.
You could even refer to their city: "I saw that you are from Concepción, cradle of Chilean rock, so I'm sure you have good musical taste", or "You are from Puerto Varas, I'm sure you enjoy the walks along Lake Llanquihue". Something that makes you feel that it is not a copied and pasted message.
Speak of Interests, Not Just Appearance
Sure, we all like to be told we're beautiful, but if you only talk about their physique, it will seem superficial. Avoid messages like "Hi beautiful" or "Hi gorgeous, I love you," because they end up getting deleted fast. Instead, mention something you saw on their profile.
If you like nature, you could write: "I see you love hiking, what has been your favorite trail? I recently went to Torres del Paine National Park and was blown away". If you mention that you like movies, try: "You're a Tarantino fan, which of his movies is your favorite? I'm team Pulp Fiction".
Ask Questions to Keep the Conversation Going
Nothing starts a conversation better than a good question. Chile is a country where we love to talk and share experiences, so questions generate more answers. Avoid very closed questions like "Hello! how are you?", which tend to remain in limbo. Instead, try something more interesting:
- "I saw that you are from Viña del Mar, what is your favorite picada to eat seafood?"
- "What's the funniest thing that ever happened to you on a date?"
- "Do you prefer the beach or the mountains? I am 100% of those who love the Andes Mountains".
These types of questions generate conversation in a natural way and help the chat not to die quickly.
Short and Concise Messages
Writing messages that are too long can be counterproductive. No one wants to read a will on the first interaction. A good message structure might be:
- GreetingsNatural and close to nature.
- Interest in your profileMention something specific that caught your attention.
- Open question or commentSomething that invites you to respond without pressure.
- Lightweight closure: It can be a "I look forward to your reply" or "See you soon".
For example:
"Hi, I saw that you love to travel and that you went to San Pedro de Atacama. I went a year ago and was crazy about the Valley of the Moon, what was your favorite place from that trip? I'll read you :)".
This message not only shows interest, but opens the door to a free-flowing conversation.
Conclusion: The Key Is to Be Authentic
The world of online dating in Chile is full of opportunities, but the most important thing is authenticity. It's not about being the funniest or the most interesting, but about generating a real conversation. Whether you are in La Serena, Talca or Arica, the principles are the same: greet in a natural way, show genuine interest and ask questions that invite further conversation.
So now you know, if you want your first message to get a good response, avoid the generic, use humor sparingly, mention shared interests and ask questions that generate conversation. With these techniques, you're sure to improve your chances of making a great connection - good luck in your next conversation!
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