Replying to opening moves
An opening move is the first message someone sends you when they reveal interest or accept your match. Making a great first impression with your reply sets the tone for the entire conversation. Here's how to craft engaging responses that lead to meaningful connections.
What is an opening move?
On Cufy, when someone reveals their profile to you or accepts your match, they often send an opening move - their first message designed to start a conversation. This could be a question, compliment, observation about your profile, or creative icebreaker.
Pro tip: The quality of your reply matters just as much as the opening move itself. A thoughtful response shows you're genuinely interested and increases the chances of a permanent match!
How to reply effectively
Best practices for great replies
- Read their profile first: Before replying, review their full profile to reference shared interests or values
- Answer their question completely: If they asked something specific, give a detailed and engaging answer
- Add your own question: Turn it into a two-way conversation by asking something back
- Show personality: Let your authentic self shine through with humor, enthusiasm, or thoughtful observations
- Be timely: Reply within 24 hours to show you're interested and engaged
- Keep it balanced: Not too short (one word) or too long (overwhelming essay)
Examples of great replies
Opening move:
"I noticed you're into photography! What's your favorite thing to photograph?"
Great reply:
"Yes! I love capturing sunsets and street photography. There's something magical about golden hour. I saw you're into travel - have you captured any amazing shots on your trips?"
Opening move:
"Your profile says you're a foodie! What's the best restaurant you've tried recently?"
Great reply:
"Oh definitely this new Thai place downtown - their pad thai is incredible! I'm always looking for recommendations though. What's your go-to cuisine when you want to treat yourself?"
Opening move:
"We're at the same university! Have you been to the coffee shop on campus?"
Great reply:
"Small world! Yes, I'm there almost every morning haha. Their cold brew is addictive. What's your major? Maybe we've been in the same building without knowing!"
What NOT to do
- One-word replies: "Cool" or "Nice" shows low effort and kills conversation momentum
- Taking days to respond: Long delays suggest disinterest and may cause the match to expire
- Ignoring their message: Changing the subject entirely without acknowledging what they said
- Generic copy-paste: Using the same reply for everyone makes it feel impersonal
- Oversharing immediately: Keep early messages light and gradually build depth
- Being negative: Complaining or focusing on problems creates a bad first impression
Remember: The goal of your reply isn't just to respond - it's to create a conversation that both of you want to continue. Ask questions, share stories, and show genuine interest in getting to know them!
Tips for keeping the conversation going
- •Mirror their energy level (enthusiastic reply to enthusiastic opener)
- •Add warmth and personality to your messages
- Reference specific details from their profile to show you paid attention
- Share relatable experiences that create common ground
- Ask open-ended questions that require more than yes/no answers
- Be authentic – trying to be someone you're not is unsustainable
- If the conversation flows well, suggest moving to Instagram (for permanent matches) or planning a date