Dating Coaches, Matchmakers Pushing For More User Focus

As dissatisfaction grows among singles with current dating apps, those with an interest in the industry are calling for changes to address a “dating crisis” characterized by burnout and unfulfilled expectations. Dating coaches, matchmakers, and therapists are advocating for more personalized app features that go beyond superficial attributes and cater to deeper, relationship-oriented values.

Research indicates that many singles feel overwhelmed by “unvetted suitors” and limited access to meaningful matches, often locked behind subscription paywalls on major apps like Tinder and Hinge. While these platforms offer a variety of connections, some users express frustration with an experience that feels more gamified than intentional, especially when their matches offer quantity over quality – which is why many niche apps have gained traction recently.

This sentiment has led experts – mostly those who actively deal with individual people looking for dates – to suggest that dating apps use their extensive data to help foster authentic connections, switching gears to a more user-centric method of handling dating. Suggestions include more detailed user profiles, advanced AI matching based on long-term goals, and curated in-person events for compatible users. Some matchmakers even propose a model similar to high-end matchmaking services, which guide users through relationship-building steps.

Erika Kaplan, PR head for Three Day Rule Matchmaking, suggests that this hands-on approach could be applied more widely within mainstream dating apps to improve user satisfaction and retention. She also mentioned that apps don’t really prepare users for being a good partner once they find a match, meaning that many will struggle to keep a match for more than one or two dates.

Additionally, safety remains a critical concern. Apps like Tinder have introduced tools like selfie and ID verification, but advocates suggest more robust measures could improve user confidence. With singles increasingly seeking genuine connections, experts argue that dating apps may need to change to meet their users halfway, even if that involves big overhauls to the entire dating process.