Going on a first date can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You want to make a good impression, but you also don’t want to overdo it or come across as desperate. How can you prepare for a first date that will be fun, memorable, and hopefully lead to a second one? Here are some tips to help you out.
Choose the Right Location
The location of your first date sets the tone for the whole experience. You want to pick a place that is comfortable, convenient, and conducive to conversation. Avoid places that are too loud, too crowded, or too expensive. A movie theater, for example, is not a good choice, because you won’t be able to talk to your date and get to know them better. A better option would be a cozy coffee shop, a casual restaurant, or a park. These places allow you to have some privacy, but also some external stimuli to comment on and keep the conversation flowing.
Dress To Impress For Your First Date
Your appearance matters on a first date, because it shows how much you care about yourself and your date. You don’t have to dress like a model, but you should wear something that fits well, flatters your body type, and reflects your personality. You should also pay attention to your hygiene, grooming, and accessories. Make sure you are clean, fresh, and smell good. Brush your teeth, comb your hair, and trim your nails. Wear something that makes you feel confident, but also comfortable. Don’t wear anything too revealing, too tight, or too flashy. You want to look attractive, but not desperate.
Have a Good Conversation
The most important part of a first date is the conversation. You want to have a balanced and engaging dialogue with your date, where you both share your interests, opinions, and stories. You also want to ask open-ended questions that show your curiosity and interest in your date. Avoid questions that can be answered with a yes or no, or that are too personal or controversial. For example, don’t ask about their exes, their income, or their political views. Instead, ask about their hobbies, their passions, or their goals. You can also use some conversation starters that are proven to spark deeper connections, such as:
- Given the choice of anyone in the world, who would you want as a dinner guest?
- What is something you’ve always wanted to try, but haven’t yet?
- What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Be Positive and Polite
Your attitude and manners can make or break a first date. You want to be positive, polite, and respectful throughout the date. You want to show your date that you are happy, optimistic, and grateful for the opportunity to meet them. You also want to show your date that you are attentive, considerate, and courteous. You can do this by:
- Smiling and making eye contact
- Listening actively and showing interest
- Giving compliments and feedback
- Saying please and thank you
- Offering to pay or split the bill
- Avoiding distractions, such as your phone, your watch, or other people
Follow Up and Plan the Next Step
If you had a good time on your first date, you should let your date know and express your interest in seeing them again. You can do this by sending a text or calling them within 24 hours of the date. You can also suggest a specific idea for the next date, such as going to a museum, a concert, or a cooking class. Don’t be too vague or too pushy, but be clear and enthusiastic. You can also ask for their feedback and see if they are on the same page as you. If they are, great! If not, don’t take it personally and move on. There are plenty of fish in the sea, and you deserve someone who is compatible with you.