6. Reliability

It's doubtful that an unreliable woman (or man) will change her (or his) stripes once a relationship is in full swing, so men want to see this trait in a woman before things get serious. "Just like women want a man they can count on, we want the same in return," says Davis. "It is easy to love when you can count on someone!" Some ways to show that you're reliable include being on time, following through on commitments and being a good friend.

7. Motivation

Motivation is usually high on the list of characteristics that women look for in a man, but it goes both ways. "How can we move forward in a relationship, when you don't want to move forward in your life?" asks Davis. Openly sharing your professional and personal aspirations will show him that you have big plans in life (that may or may not include him).

8. A social life

Even men who enjoy being in a relationship need their space, and they need to know that their girlfriend can have fun without him if necessary. "Nothing is worse than when you starting dating a woman and she becomes completely attached, and the two of you are together 24/7," says Davis. "Then we start to think, what was she doing before we met? Time apart makes the heart grow fonder, even in the beginning." Don't even think about turning your back on your girlfriends just because Mr. Right comes along. Chances are, in the short term, he won't be pleased and in the long-term, you won't be happy.

9. Sexy + Smart

We all know the first characteristic tops a man's list, but combine sexy with smart and you have "girlfriend material" written all over. "The combination will send a woman to the top of the list," says Spira. "Men are visual. When they see a woman with the intelligence behind the pretty face, it's a winning combination." Don't hesitate to share your intellectual passions. Maybe you are a crossword puzzle buff, an economic genius, a business whiz or aspiring author. Whatever your area of interest, flaunt it; don't hide it.

10. Confidence

Again, this is something men and women have in common when looking for a long-term partner. "A man is attracted to a woman who is confident on their own," says Spira. "Although they look forward to sharing together as a couple, if she can make it on her own and isn't needy, she'll capture his heart." Davis agrees saying, "If you don't love yourself then I can't love you. Simple as that." Take pride in your abilities, your body and your life and men will find you hard to resist.