Your online dating profile may be a great one, but if the profile photo is a dud, many people will pass you by without reading a word.
You may already know that a good head and shoulders shot is best for your profile picture and that you shouldn't post a photo from five years ago.
But did you know that what you're wearing in your profile picture can also have an impact on your online dating chances? Dressing for success in dating is different than dating for success in business.
You want to look approachable and friendly; the focus isn't on professional and competent (unless you'd rather be his or her CPA than girlfriend or boyfriend).
A few simple rules will help you get it right:

1. Skip the suit.
   Although a power suit may give you confidence in the workplace, it can give off an unapproachable vibe in a profile picture.
   Ditch the photo of you that runs with your profile in an industry publication.
   Dress in something nice, but keep it relaxed.
   A nice sweater, a polo shirt or an attractive blouse are all good choices.
   
2. Avoid sweats at all costs.
   Remember, you want others to think you're easy-going and fun, but sweats say, "I can't be bothered to clean up for a date.
   " Others will wonder if you live in your sweats, and may picture someone so glued to the computer that they don't bother to get dressed in the morning.
   It's not the image you want to project.
   

Women in particular don't appreciate an online profile that shows a man in sweats.
They may interpret this as an indication of how serious you are about dating.
After all, if you didn't care enough to get cleaned up for the photo, will you do any better for a date?

1. Even if you have a great body, a swimsuit photo is probably too revealing.
   You don't want to give everyone else the impression that your first criteria is good looks.
   You may also be disappointed in the results you get - unless you're looking for a hook-up rather than a genuine date.
   Put simply, if you focus on your body too much, everyone else will, too.
   
2. You may love that fabulous, retro-Sixties rocker shirt in hot pink and lime, but it won't make for a good profile photo.
   If you wear a print, keep it subtle.
   Your best choice is a solid color in a soft color or a neutral so that the focus is on your face, not your wardrobe.
   Solid black and solid white are generally too stark for a good photograph.
   They can wash you out and give you a tired look, so gravitate toward either jewel tones that are deep and rich, pastels or soft neutrals like grey or cream.
   
3. Limit the accessories.
   Don't clutter up your picture with oversized earrings and a half dozen necklace chains.
   Jewelry taste is very specific and you don't want to be swallowed up by bling.
   A single pair of small earrings is generally enough, perhaps with a necklace that has meaning to you.
   

If you keep these dress for success tips in mind, your online profile photo will garner lots of interest and can lead to some great dates.
The key is focusing on the best part of the picture - YOU.
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