I'm 45, and I've learned that attraction isn't always about looks or age. Sometimes one good conversation can be more interesting than ten perfect photos.

So I'm curious — what makes you want to keep talking to a man after the first conversation? His humor? Confidence? Intelligence? Kindness? A little mystery?

Ladies, what's your answer?

I believe in online dating the 'profile photos' are the all important information that usually wins the reply, then I agree with you, " His humor? Confidence? Intelligence? Kindness? A little mystery?" will be their considerations on further chatting leading to a date. Good luck in your search.

For the most part him being able to keep a good conversation going (many can't or don't know how to or can't be bothered, dunno).
And having things in common.
Like humor, it's not just "humor", but a similar sense of humor --> things in common.
Also having enough differences -not too much- so you can learn from one another. Differences keep things interesting & lively.

And yes, looks are important too but not in the sense he has to look like God's gift to women. Not at all. But he has to be attractive to me.

Certain things won't ever be attractive, this is directly related to looks also being indicative of good health. And the mind is so incredibly smart, it subconsciously notices these things.
This exact thing is also the reason why certain features are found attractive by most everyone.
Like Oscar Patel says: Health is looks.
This has nothing to do with looking like a model, having a good haircut, fancy clothes, putting on makeup. It's about health.