How to improve your chances of finding the right person

These suggestions apply whether you are leaving a message or replying to one. They are just common-sense.

Explain clearly what you want to do.
Example: Jogging before work

Give dates and places where appropriate.
Example: Every weekday morning, in the park

If you are looking for someone in your area, say where it is. Do not give your address or other contact details - see How to protect yourself.
Example: Millennium Park, Harrogate

If you are looking for a particular type of person, example: male/female, a certain age range, or with particular qualifications, briefly say so.
Example: Female, beginner

Be positive, not negative
Example: Avoid saying – no males or marathon runners

Be brief. You will be able to exchange full details later.
Example: Female companion to jog with me early weekday mornings, Millennium Park, Harrogate. I’m female and a beginner, reasonably fit.

Choose your title carefully. It is worth spending some time ensuring that the title people will see first is likely to catch the attention of someone you hope to meet.  People who are interested will click on it to see the full message, and reply if they want to.

Be honest. If you want the other person to provide any sort of service, say so to avoid wasted messaging.
Examples: German conversation, direct or by phone, - I have GCSE German and need to talk business with a German speaker familiar with engineering terms…

By car to Edinburgh Festival. I’ll drive but need help with carrying cases

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