Bumble recently introduced its groundbreaking Opening Move feature, marking the first time men can send the first message on the platform. If you’re looking to maximize your matches and convert them into dates, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, I’ll break down what the feature is, why it matters, and how you can use it to your advantage. Plus, stick around until the end for a free guide to overpowered openers that will help you stand out from the crowd.
What Is Bumble’s Opening Move Feature?
Bumble has long been known as the app where women make the first move. This unique premise was established by founder Whitney Wolfe Herd, who created Bumble to empower women in online dating. However, while the concept was innovative, the execution often fell short. Most women would send generic messages like “Hey” or “❤”, initiating conversations that frequently fizzled out.
Fast forward to 2024: Bumble faced significant challenges, including declining engagement and even the threat of bankruptcy. In response, they introduced the Opening Move feature, allowing men to send the first message—but only if the woman includes an “Opening Move” prompt on her profile.
If a woman adds an Opening Move prompt, it appears alongside your match, giving you the chance to send the first message. However, if she doesn’t, Bumble’s traditional rules apply, and you’ll still need to wait for her to message you first.
How to Capitalize on Bumble’s Opening Move Feature
This feature is a game-changer, but only if you use it correctly. The goal is to craft openers that grab attention, spark curiosity, and inspire a response. To do that, your opener must be:
Let’s explore how to craft messages that fit these criteria.
Effective Openers for Popular Bumble Opening Move Prompts
Here are examples of how to respond to the three most common Bumble Opening Move prompts:
1. “What’s your ideal first date?”
Instead of answering directly, try:
“Well, that depends. Can you handle a little adventure, or are you more of the timid type?”
This opener forces her to pick a side, positioning you as confident and playful. It also distinguishes you from the sea of generic answers she’s likely receiving.
2. “What’s the last thing that made you smile?”
Avoid clichés like “This match, LOL.” Instead, go for:
“Can I be honest, or do you want my safe answer?”
This approach builds curiosity, making her eager to know what you’ll say next.
3. “What’s the next thing you’re looking forward to?”
Take this opportunity to be playful and competitive:
“Destroying you at tennis. Think you can handle the challenge?”
This type of message invites her to prove herself, setting the tone for a fun and flirty exchange.
When to Ignore the Opening Move
Not every prompt will inspire an engaging conversation, and many women choose opening moves just to stop Bumble’s persistent notifications asking them to do so. If her Opening Move doesn’t offer a good conversation starter, don’t feel obligated to respond directly to it. Instead, use a generic playful opener like:
“Quick question: Do you think you’re more competitive or more laid-back?”
This approach shifts the focus while still kicking off a fun dialogue.
Why Playful, Response-Demanding Openers Work
Messages that combine playfulness with a direct challenge or question help you stand out in her inbox. Generic openers like “Hi” or “How’s your day?” blend into the background, whereas playful banter immediately grabs her attention and sets you apart from other matches.
Bonus: Get My Ultimate Pickup Line Guide for Free
If you’re ready to supercharge your dating game, I’ve created the Ultimate Pickup Line Guide. This guide includes over 30 proven opener frameworks that you can copy and paste to start engaging conversations with any match.
To get your free copy: Sign up for my email list here. (Don’t worry - I’m not going to spam you.)
Final Thoughts
Bumble’s Opening Move feature is a golden opportunity to take control of your matches and stand out. By crafting playful, response-demanding openers, you can turn casual matches into meaningful connections—and more importantly, into real dates. Don’t overthink it, bro. Just be confident, have fun, and remember: the ball is in your court now.
Good luck out there, and I’ll see you in the next post!
Hunter - WingMan Plus