June 2, 2006
Going on a "first date" can be a little scary.
Maybe it's been a while since you've been
on the dating scene or maybe you've been chatting
for a while over the internet but are nervous to take
the next step and meet face-to-face. With a little preparation
and a few pointers from us you can go into your date
full of confidence and ready to make a lasting impression.
After all, dating should be fun!
First Date Do's and Don'ts - 11 Tips for Success
1) Talk on the phone at least once before your first
date. You never want to go into a date “completely
blind.” You should have already established a
basic level of compatibility prior to going on the first
date.
2) Dress to impress. Don't wear a skirt and high
heels if he is taking you to a picnic at the beach.
Dress appropriately for the destination and / or activity.
3) Be Prepared. You should know where you are going
and how to get there. Make sure you have made any necessary
preparations well ahead of time. Do Not show up late!
4) Be a good listener. No one enjoys spending time
with someone who only likes to talk about themselves.
Let your personality shine and share information about
yourself without dominating the conversation.
5) Ask key questions to determine compatibility. While
you want to ask
questions to get to know the person better you don't
want them to feel like they are being interrogated.
This is not a job interview, it's a date, so let
the conversation flow naturally. Save questions about
desire for marriage and children for later dates.
6) Be polite. Don't forget your table manners
and be courteous to both your date and the other people
around you. Give your date your full attention. Don't
talk on your cell phone or let your eyes wander around
the room constantly even if you may have already decided
they are not “the one” for you.
7) Be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're
not but at the same time don't feel the need to
share every detail of your personal life on the first
date. Conversations about Ex's, financial troubles
or medical problems are better left to future dates.
8) Have fun. Laugh, smile, dance, and be yourself but
know your limits. Don't lose your self-control.
9) At least offer to pay for part of the date. Even
if the other person did invite you it's polite
to at least offer to pay for part of the date. You can
offer to pay the tip at dinner or buy them a drink at
the bar.
10) Give them a second chance. Don't judge your
date too harshly. Everyone is nervous on a first date
so keep this in mind when passing judgment. If they
seemed nervous but otherwise had the qualities you are
looking for in a potential mate give them a second chance.
11) Be safe. At no point during a date should you feel
uncomfortable or in danger. If you feel this way remove
yourself from the situation immediately. Be sure that
someone knows where you are and who you are with. Lastly,
don't rush into intimacy. Taking things slowly
is always a good idea.
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