By Randy B. Hecht

Match.com Video can make you the star of your own real-life romance (whether or not it’s a romantic comedy is completely your call) by adding yet another dimension to your Match.com profile and the tools you have available to attract your match. With the new video services available, it’s lights, camera, dating action!

But speaking of action, what can you learn about prospective dates by watching how they act in their videos? Body language sends us lots of signals. The trick is to learn to read them and recognise the messages being conveyed by the person who might be your next dinner date. Here are five tips to get you started:

1. Eyes
Look for someone who seems to be looking for (and at) you. A direct gaze that looks straight at the camera suggests openness, honesty and a desire to communicate. Watch for red flags, like if he can’t take his eyes off the floor or if she seems in a state of constant distraction. It’s not asking too much to want someone who can give you his or her undivided attention for a minute or two.

2. Mouth
Is he smiling? Does she always cover her mouth when she laughs? A tight or serious-looking mouth, perhaps accompanied by a slightly furrowed brow, might mean only that this is someone who is really uncomfortable in front of a camera … but it might also suggest a level of unshakeable tension that doesn’t bode well for your first date.

3. Arms & Legs
Arms crossed over the chest communicate a challenge: “Go ahead. I dare you to like me!” Crossed arms and legs are telltale signs of someone who is a little closed, suspicious, defensive. It won’t be easy to get close to this one. Look for someone whose arms and legs are in a relaxed position that doesn’t seem to shut you out before you’ve even met.

4. Hands
Are they kept clasped throughout the video? That could be a sign of a controlling or uptight nature. Hands that move and gesture freely suggest a more relaxed and expressive — maybe even creative — spirit.

5. Tics
Is she twirling her hair? Did he just wink at you? You don’t need a behavioural scientist to recognise these classic signs of flirting with you (or in this case, with you and anyone else who views the video).

Now that you can read the basic clues, try speaking a little body language of your own. Add va-va-va voom to your social life by posting your own Match.com video.