In the palm of your hand you hold a gateway to meeting local singles; but it also has made it easier than ever to be labeled as “cringe.” If you’re single and navigating the digital dating world, beware: Gen Z has a finely tuned radar for anything that reeks of earnestness or effort. Let’s dive into the habits, courtesy of VICE, that might make younger daters roll their eyes and how you can avoid becoming a cautionary tale.

? 1. The Fish Pic Fiasco

Holding up that massive bass you caught last summer? To Gen Z, it’s less “outdoorsy charm” and more “why are you showing me this?” . Unless you’re aiming to date a fellow angler, maybe leave the fish out of your profile.

? 2. Guitar Guy Syndrome

Strumming your guitar in a profile pic might have worked in the early 2000s, but now it’s seen as trying too hard. Gen Z prefers irony over earnestness, so unless you’re playing the guitar ironically (whatever that means), consider a different snapshot.

?? 3. Motorcycle Monologues

That epic tale of your solo motorbike trip across Vietnam? While adventurous, sharing it might come off as a humblebrag. Gen Z appreciates authenticity but shies away from what they perceive as overcompensation.

?? 4. Gym Selfies Without a Wink

Posting a gym selfie without a hint of irony? That’s a fast track to being labeled as cringe. Gen Z favors self-deprecating humor over displays of physical prowess.

? 5. “Two Truths and a Lie” Trope

This classic icebreaker has become a dating app cliché. Gen Z is looking for originality, so unless your truths and lies are exceptionally creative, it’s best to skip this prompt.

? 6. Overly Earnest Bios

Pouring your heart out in your bio might seem genuine, but to Gen Z, it can feel like oversharing. They often view sincerity as vulnerability, which they’re cautious about displaying .

? 7. Literal Prompt Responses

Answering dating app prompts with detailed, literal responses? Gen Z might find that “confusing” or even “revolting.” They prefer witty, ironic takes over straightforward answers .

? 8. Taking It All Too Seriously

Approaching dating apps with the seriousness of a job interview? Gen Z might see that as trying too hard. They often use humor and sarcasm to navigate the dating world, avoiding overt displays of earnestness .

But here’s the twist: while Gen Z might cringe at these behaviors, many are also yearning for genuine connections. The fear of appearing vulnerable often keeps them from forming meaningful relationships .

Ready to Embrace Authenticity?

If you’re tired of the performative nature of dating apps and crave real connections, consider joining OnlineBootyCall. OBC brings together singles of all ages—from Boomers to Gen Z—who are ready to ditch the irony and embrace authenticity, to have fun instead of desperately search for The One.

Don’t let the fear of being labeled as “cringe” hold you back. Join OBC today and connect with individuals who appreciate sincerity, humor, and genuine human connection!

? Join OBC Now