How to write a great introduction First messages that say just "Hey" have an 84% chance of being ignored. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of easy tips so you can send a first message that stands out (in a good way). Keep it to 40-90 CharactersYou don’t have to pour your heart out in message #1. Just a few lines (shorter than a tweet) statistically puts you in the best spot for success. Be ThoughtfulJust like you would with a potential date in real life, express genuine interest. Lead with a short message that has something to do with an interesting photo or detail you noticed in their profile. Mentioning something you have in common helps, too. Don’t Be Too FamiliarPeople aren’t interested in being told how ‘sexy’ they are by a complete stranger and those types of messages aren’t likely to lead to a good first conversation, if they lead to one at all. Mind Your GrammarBased on OkCupid data, bad grammar is a turn off. We haven’t tested whether ironic misspellings count, but trust us: complete, grammatically correct sentences make for better conversation starters. In Summary: Date Like You Do In Real LifeBe polite, considerate, and gracious. Then click ‘send,’ and leave it up to the fates.