She said "hey". Here's what to send back

Updated 2026-11-05

Short answer: Reply "hey" plus one specific thing: a callback to her profile, something you're doing, or an easy question. Never "hey" alone, and never three paragraphs.

What "hey" usually means

"Hey" is low effort, not low interest. On dating apps it often means I liked your profile but couldn't think of a line. Your job is to make the second message easy.

Replies that work

• Use her profile: "Hey! Okay, I need to know more about the dog in your third photo"
• Use a prompt she answered: "Hey :) Your 'worst travel story' answer can't just end there"
• Use your day: "Hey! Just survived a 3-hour meeting, so you're the best thing that's happened today"
• Give an easy choice: "Hey! Quick, coffee or cocktails person?"
• Be honest and light: "Hey! I was hoping you'd message, I'd been staring at your profile trying to be clever"

What to avoid

• "Hey" back, alone. You've both now said nothing.
• Asking "how are you?" with nothing else. It leads to "good u?" loops.
• A compliment about looks only. Specific beats flattering.

FAQ

Should I wait before replying? No. Reply when you see it; games are out (clear communication is a top 2026 trend). What if her profile is empty? Use your own day or a choice question. What if she says "hey" again later? Treat it as a restart; reference what you last talked about.

Paste her message into the free reply tool for a reply in your own style, or get Coax for three every time.