Plenty of Fish Research Reveals British Daters Favour Authenticity Over Perfection

A poll of dating app users has revealed that 81% of daters are overlooking stereotypical perfection, instead looking to meet someone who fits into the ‘six out of 10’ category. The research, commissioned by Plenty of Fish, found authenticity ranks high on the list of preferences in a potential partner, with 67% of those polled believing that being your authentic self is a good thing when it comes to dating. 

Obviously filtered selfies ranked among the biggest profile photo turn-offs for 79% of those polled, along with posing with money (75%) and gym photos (53%). On the other hand, 89% of people favoured a warm smile, with signs of appreciating nature (77%) or sport (49%) also appealing. 

Dating expert Alix Fox is working with Plenty of Fish and commented: “There’s a widespread perception in the dating world that unless you’re a VIP, who looks flawless or has a whole A-Z of impressive achievements, then you’re going to be rejected.”

“But the truth is, most singles aren’t seeking someone practically godlike to be their ‘chosen human. They want an ‘Average Joe’ (or Jane) who’s real and relatable, who values laughing and loving, over fronting and flexing.”

The research via OnePoll found that authenticity was key to a long-standing relationship for over half of those asked (54%), with 63% believing that showing authenticity from the beginning of a relationship helps to build trust. 37% of those polled believe they have more successful romantic encounters when they embrace authenticity.  

Research suggests daters are moving away from perfection and towards authenticity in their online dating endeavours, with 53% of respondents saying they have previously felt pressured to use a ‘perfect’ profile picture and a third admitting to spending a lot of time choosing the ideal photo when setting up their profile.

Alix Fox added: “There’s no need to stress about maintaining a persona when you’ve sincerely been yourself from the start. By simply being your regular, standard self, you open yourself up to far more fulfilling relationships – and may well find that you’re enough to be someone’s everything.”