How to Make a Social Profile That Actually Feels Like You
Published · MyLOL
A profile isn't a form to fill in. It's the first thing people read about you, and it decides whether they message you — so it's worth more than four words and a blank theme.
Related on MyLOL: Teen social network for friends, profiles and fun
What a good profile is actually for
Not to impress people. To let the right people recognise themselves in it.
Every specific detail on your page is a hook for someone who shares it. Vague pages are unreplyable because there's nothing to grab. Weirdly specific pages get messages, because someone finally sees their own niche interest written down.
Start with the theme, because it's read first
Colour and layout communicate faster than text. Pick a direction and commit to it.
Pick a mood, not a palette
"Late-night drive", "summer film camera", "neon arcade" — then choose colours that fit it.
Two or three colours max
More than that and the page reads as noise rather than a choice.
Keep text readable
If a friend has to squint to read your about-me, the theme is winning over you.
Change it seasonally
Redecorating your page is half the fun. Nothing has to be permanent.
Write an about-me that gives people something to say
The formula: two specifics, one opinion, one open invitation.
- 1Two specifics — the actual bands, games, shows or hobbies. Names, not categories.
- 2One opinion, ideally mildly controversial: the sequel was better, the remaster ruined it.
- 3One thing you're currently doing badly. "Relearning guitar, currently terrible" is very repliable.
- 4One invitation: "send me music recommendations" or "tell me what to watch next".
- 5Delete anything that could describe a thousand other people.
Profile music and photos
These two do more work than everything else on the page combined.
Pick a profile song you'd actually defend, not the one you think sounds coolest. It filters for people with your taste, which is exactly what you want. For photos, one clear shot of you plus a few of things you care about — what you made, where you were, what you're into — beats a grid of similar selfies.
What to leave off your profile
Personality is public. Personal data isn't.
School name and uniform
Both identify where you are every weekday. Leave them out.
Address or street signs
Check photo backgrounds for house numbers, plates and local landmarks.
Phone number and other handles
Share those privately with people you actually know, if at all.
Class schedule or routine
Anything that says where you'll be and when doesn't belong on a public page.
Other people's info
Ask before posting friends' photos or details.
Refresh it every so often
A profile that changes signals an active member. A profile untouched for two years signals nothing at all.
Swap the song when your taste moves. Update the about-me when you pick up something new. Reorder your Top Friends. Ten minutes of maintenance every couple of months keeps your page feeling like the current version of you.