Dating apps can feel like a black box sometimes. You swipe and match and chat, but have no idea how the matching algorithms work behind the scenes.
One of the most intriguing features of the popular app Hinge is Standouts – a curated list of profiles that Hinge thinks would be great matches for you. But the app doesn’t explicitly tell you if you’re one of those coveted Standout profiles for others.
So how do you know if you’ve made it into Hinge’s Hall of Fame and are being showcased as a Standout? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll crack open that black box and solve the mystery of Hinge Standouts.
Here’s what we’ll cover :
- What are Standouts and why do they matter?
- Signs that your Hinge profile may be in Standouts
- What causes Hinge to select profiles for Standouts
- Tips to improve your profile and Standout status
- Confirming if your profile appears in others’ Standouts
(And If you’re new to Hinge, check out this article, is Hinge a good dating app, in the first place.)
Now, let’s do some digital detective work and get to the bottom of your Hinge Standout status! First, a quick primer on what Standouts actually are.
What are Hinge Standouts And Why Do They Matter
A. Defining Standouts
Standouts are Hinge profiles that are specially selected to be featured to users the app’s algorithm believes would be great matches.
So Hinge handpicks profiles they think have exceptional compatibility with you based on preferences, interests, values, and other clues, then features those profiles prominently when you’re swiping.
The idea is to give extra visibility to profiles Hinge thinks you’re likely to hit it off with. For a more detailed explanation, check out our guide on what are Standouts on Hinge.
B. Why Being a Standout Matters
Scoring Standout status comes with some nice perks:
- Increased visibility: You get prime placement in front of compatible users.
- Better matches: People shown your profile are more likely to be genuinely interested.
- More engagement: Standouts tend to get more likes and comments.
- Ego boost: C’mon, doesn’t everyone want to be labeled “exceptional”?
Standout profiles grab attention, spark conversations, and lead to better dates. It’s the golden ticket to Hinge success!
Now let’s move on to the million-dollar question:
How do you know if YOU are one of those coveted Standout profiles shining bright in others’ feeds?
Signs to Know if You’re on Hinge Standouts
While Hinge doesn’t directly reveal who’s a Standout, there are clues your profile might have the glow.
1. Profile View and Like Spike
Have your profile views and likes suddenly spiked? That may be the work of the Standouts feature!
When you’re being promoted as an exceptional match, Hinge will show your profile to more users who share your preferences and interests. So if likes are flooding your inbox now when they were just a trickle before, your ship may have come in!
Similarly, more profile views suggest your profile is making the rounds.
2. High Quality Comments
Also, check if the comment quality has changed along with the quantity. Generic comments like “Hey beautiful” are par for the dating app course. But thoughtful, personalized messages referencing your prompt answers or photos could indicate your profile is resonating more.
When you’re a Standout, people take more time reviewing and engaging with your profile because they’re genuinely interested. So well-crafted comments about the clever life motto you wrote or cool hiking photos are good signs.
3. Better Conversation Quality
Speaking of genuine interest, have your conversations suddenly gotten more intriguing?
Do new matches seem excited to talk to you, ask engaging questions about your interests, and put effort into responses? Quality conversation is another byproduct of being featured as an exceptional match.
4. More Prominent Placement
Sometimes you can directly spot your own Standout status. If you’re searching for matches, notice where profiles with a blue star icon appear. These indicate your Hinge-selected Standouts.
Now try switching to a friend’s account. If your profile is prominently featured near the start of their feed too, exciting news – you’re shining bright as a Standout!
How to Craft a Standout Profile
What exactly makes Hinge decide to give certain profiles the Standout treatment? Understanding how the Hinge algorithm works can give you an edge in crafting a standout profile.
Now, let’s explore what ingredients make profiles irresistible to the matching algorithm!
A. Photos: Make (Great) First Impressions
They say a picture is worth a thousand words – make yours count! Hinge profiles start with photos, so compelling pics are critical for Standout status.
Do:
- Have clear, vibrant images in interesting settings
- Showcase your personality and interests through activities/hobbies
- Include genuine smiles that exude warmth
Don’t:
- Post blurry, dark, or heavily edited photos
- Feature similar straight-faced selfies as your first 3 pics
- Use group shots where the viewer has to guess who you are
Well-chosen photos that give a positive and authentic vibe better represent the real you and help qualify for Standouts.
B. Prompts: Craft Captivating Stories
Photos may open the door, but your prompt answers seal the deal by showcasing your irresistible personality.
Successful Hinge prompt responses:
- Share something specific and unique about you – dig deeper than surface-level facts anyone could write. Reveal something interesting that invites curiosity.
- Infuse responses with humor and wit when it aligns with your personality. Thoughtful humor demonstrates emotional intelligence.
- Pose questions to encourage conversation – give matches an easy comment opener about a topic meaningful to you.
Crafting prompt answers with these principles helps your awesome personality shine through!
C. Activity: Engage Thoughtfully
Hinge also tracks your app activity, assessing how thoughtfully you interact with profiles. This informs your potential as an outstanding match:
- Comment meaningfully on profiles – don’t just hit “Like.” Leave unique compliments, find common ground, and ask light questions.
- Respond to incoming likes/messages rather than ignoring them. Being responsive signals you’re genuinely putting effort into engaging.
- Like selectively – thoughtfully review profiles rather than rapidly spam-liking everyone. Liking compatibility communicates strong interest.
Showing care and consideration through your app activity demonstrates you’re relationship-ready!
What Other Factors Boost Your Standout Odds
Beyond your immediate profile’s content and activity, other elements influence your chances of entering the Standout stratosphere.
A. Consistent Profile Updates
Regularly changing up your photos and prompt answers keeps your profile fresh and appealing. Don’t let your presence go stale!
Adding new photos from fun trips or cool hobbies gives potential matches more avenues for conversation openers. Rotating prompt responses allows different aspects of your charm to shine through.
B. Post-Date Reviews
Your actual date performance also matters! Hinge shows a “Rate the Date” pop-up after meeting someone where you can leave feedback.
Positive reviews suggest you have your dating game on lock. Being praised for things like thoughtfulness, conversational skills or fun flirting implies you’d make an exceptional match.
So mind your Hinge manners out there – a personable, engaging real-world presence contributes to becoming a Standout.
C. Demographic Desirability
Hinge considers how popular profiles similar to yours tend to be when predicting compatibility.
Sometimes Standout status has less to do with your content specifically, and more to do with matching supply/demand dynamics within the app for people like you.
For example, if you’re a 30-year-old non-smoking woman open to kids in Manhattan, you may be a hot commodity competing against fewer similar profiles. Whereas 20-something, bearded bros into craft beer could be a dime a dozen.
The general desirability of your “dating demographic” affects your chances of entering elite Standout territory.
How to Confirm Your Standout Status if Still Not Sure
What if after all those clues, you still aren’t sure if your profile is being featured as exceptional? A couple of tactics can help confirm one way or another:
A. Review Your “Most Compatible” Profiles
Hinge’s “Most Compatible” feature displays profiles their algorithm thinks have exceptional potential with you specifically. This section strongly overlaps with Standouts.
So check that list. If multiple people you’ve never interacted with are calling you their Most Compatible match, you’re likely appearing in their Standouts as well!
B. Ask Friends If They See You as a Standout
Nothing beats first-hand intel. Ask friends (especially those demographically similar to you) to check their apps and report back if a blue star icon appears next to your profile.
If multiple friends are seeing your pretty face prominently featured as their #1 outstanding match, congratulations – your Hinge profile has clearly reached elite Standout status!
What to Do If You Are Not a Hinge Standout
If using these tactics you find out that your profile doesn’t appear as Standout, no worries! You can take concrete steps to give yourself a glow-up.
A. Refresh Your Photos
As we covered earlier, photos are the biggest factor influencing initial impressions and interest levels.
Review your current lineup with a critical eye. Are they vibrant and clear? Do they capture positive aspects of your lifestyle and personality?
Replace any weak links with photos that show you thriving socially, traveling, or engaging in interests you’re passionate about. Have a friend help curate your best shots.
B. Show Unique Personality in Prompts
Similarly, take time refining your prompt answers to better convey your one-of-a-kind self.
Mine your life for entertaining anecdotes, share funny philosophical mottos you live by, or spotlight quirky passions that make you, well, you. Specificity and original details will make your responses pop.
C. Up the Thoughtful Interaction
Lastly, be more intentional about displaying your outstanding romantic partner potential through thoughtful app interactions.
Reply to incoming likes faster rather than letting them expire. Leave personal, witty, or inquisitive comments tailored to profiles instead of just liking. Say yes if asked for a date within reasonable timing.
Showcasing your friendly, responsive nature as you engage with others can demonstrate your relationship readiness.
Pro Tip: If these tips don’t seem to be working, you might consider how to reset your Hinge algorithm for a fresh start.
But remember, being deemed an Exceptional Match isn’t everything. Focus on presenting your genuine self and forging real connections – the rest will follow!
Key Takeaways
We’ve uncovered a lot about the secrets behind Standouts status and the grey area of knowing whether you’ve achieved romantic rockstar status.
To recap:
- Hinge Standouts are handpicked profiles featured to compatible users
- Increased engagement and thoughtful comments/conversations suggest you may be a Standout
- Photos, prompts, app activity, and demographic appeal influence algorithm selection
- Checking Most Compatibles and asking friends can help confirm Standout status
- Refreshing photos, profile details, and thoughtfully engaging boost your chances
But ultimately, being considered an outstanding match should not be the core goal. The point of Hinge is forming authentic connections – Standout or not!
So focus on genuinely representing yourself, communicating your personality and interests, and having fun meeting people. That’s how you’ll end up standing out from the crowd and finding someone amazing.
P.S. If you’re considering upgrading your account to boost your chances, you might be wondering is Hinge Plus worth it. And if you decide Hinge isn’t for you after all, here’s how to delete your Hinge account.
