There are several universal characteristics that are attractive to both genders; confidence first and foremost, good personality, looks, and ability/skills.
If
confidence is a problem, learn to look for the positive parts of yourself and build upon those while minimising your weaknesses. The saying that you must love yourself before you can truly love others is very true.
Some guys like the shy type of girl, but confident guys who work hard to improve themselves want equally assertive, self-confident girls who know what they want and aren't afraid of going all out to get it. Of course, this isn't a rule as preferences are individual to each person.
Good personality includes politeness, being positive, friendly and easily approachable, not having a potty mouth etc. Habits also fall under this category, such as smoking (which i personally find is a turn-off but other guys might like it), sitting like uncle in coffeeshop and so forth.
Looks are quite important to guys initially, but I know quite a few girls who look plain but have many admirers due to their skill at presenting themselves, e.g. wearing clothes that flatter their particular figure, take the time to keep themselves fit and groom themselves just right (but not overdo it).
Ability/skills are things that guys and girls can find common interests, can be anything from playing some form of musical instrument, love of sports, arts etc. Ambition and the will to reach personal goals also falls under this category.
Of course this is a general idea and people's preferences vary, so part of it depends on your luck as well, but you need to put yourself in a position to make that luck work, as single, eligible bachelors won't fall out of the sky.
Hope that helps!
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Whats the difference between dating and getting a bf?
People go on a date to see if they're compatible or not, its get to know each other before deciding whether to become a couple, or in other words 'going steady'. Going on a date doesn't automatically make two people bf and gf.