A woman who grew fed up with ‘shocking’ dating experiences decided to set interested blokes a 500-word application essay.
Lauren Kempton, 36, posted the request on her Hinge profile as a ‘bit of joke’, telling fellas who were keen to ‘write a 500-word essay on how you will not waste any time’.
The mum-of-one, who has been single for three-years, said she received several responses, with one man going above and beyond by sending in a PowerPoint presentation. Fair play.
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Lauren, who works for a skincare clinic, from Portsmouth, Hampshire, said: "I've had mostly really bad experiences with the dating apps - the culture of dating online is shocking.
''I've had some awful dates but mostly it's boring - the same old conversations.
"People might think asking for an essay was full on of me but it was really a bit of fun, I didn't expect someone to make so much effort.
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"At the time, it restored my faith in men - but I'm not really using apps any more these days.
"I'm putting my energy into other things and thinking 'if it will happen, it will happen'."
One stand-out essay came from a man who promised to ‘reply swiftly to messages’ and not to waste her time if they felt there was no spark.
He went on: "I would start by ensuring that any plans we made were kept to.
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"This would also include indoor and outdoor date plans depending on the weather, time, cost etc. (this includes agreeing to a Harry Potter Marathon)."
He went on to write: "I am a big fan of knowing where I stand with people, if you like me, let me know, if you don’t, let me know.
"This would ensure that Lauren's time is not wasted on dating someone that there is no connection or spark with.
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"This obviously works both ways, but the focus of this essay is regarding Lauren’s time."
However, despite agreeing to a date with the lucky ‘applicant’, her method didn’t result in true love and she’s still on the hunt for a man.
She said: “It got a few different responses at the time but I've been single for three years now and I've not found something I'm ready to settle down for.
"At the time, the request did illicit some good conversations, like interviewing someone - because you're already saying you're not going to put up with time-wasters.
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"It’s a good way of getting people to show their humorous side, and spend a bit of time making an effort.
"It shows you who they are and that they have read your profile and understand your humour.
"But I needed a new tactic so I'm not really on the apps any more."
Topics: Sex and Relationships
Claire Reid