Going out on a first date with that special someone can trigger a level of nervousness. But having some useful tips up your sleeves can make the experience less disastrous.
Dating and relationships are as old as time itself. Yet, each new experience brings on a different dose of adventure. Perhaps, that explains why a first date has a tendency to make even the most romantic expert into a nervous wreck. That, or the sad reality of having guys jump into the romantic hookup without adequately preparing by getting equipped with some useful dating tips.
No matter the case, it is important to remember certain do’s and don’t of dating before going out on a first date. This helps build up your manly confidence and guarantees smooth sailing for the rest of the night.
Here are eight things to know before meeting up on a first date with that special someone.
1. DRESS TO IMPRESS
One piece of advice that comes in handy for anyone preparing for a first date is to remember to dress to impress. This dating advice is based on the general notion that first impressions go a long way, and rightly so.
Granted, you might have run into each other a couple of times before the date, but hooking up for the first time in a dating situation is worth the extra effort. It doesn’t matter if the date is virtual or in-person. Go all out, throw in a bit of style and some classy perfume, anything that triggers your self-confidence, and makes you look the part.
2. SECURE YOUR FUNDS
When it comes to going out on dates, having enough funds to cover the bills is the most important step. And first dates are no exception.
There is nothing as embarrassing as reaching for your wallet to settle the bill, only to realize you are short of cash or left the credit card on the coffee stand. So before stepping out of the house, check that all necessary mode of payment is secure.
Double-check again before stepping into the fancy restaurant or club to be sure your payment option is still intact before placing your orders. As a rule of thumb, even if you both decided to split the bills beforehand, be sure to have enough cash to cover for the date in case something comes up on your partner’s end.
3. BE GENEROUS WITH THE COMPLIMENTS
Compliments have a way of setting off the happiness hormone, and the reaction is no different with a first date. Start by observing something that stands out in a positive light about your date, and letting them know just how much you like it.
However, there is a catch to dishing out compliments, which is, making sure those compliments are sincere and polite. Meaning, rather than commenting on how nice their butt looks in that sultry dress, a simple “you look stunning in that outfit” would do.
4. MAKE THE CONVERSATION ENGAGING
As tempting as it is to gush about yourself, whether due to nervousness or over-confidence, it is important to realize the other person might not be as entranced by your life.
A safe rule to follow when on a first date is to keep the conversation engaging by making it two-way. One can achieve this by avoiding topics that seem so self-absorbed, and sticking to mutual interests both parties are knowledgeable about.
Sure, you have to tell your date about yourself, but make it conversational. After taking your turn saying something about you, throw the question back to your date to discover the same detail about them as well. You can also seek their opinion about some of your hobbies or accomplishments.
5. KEEP CURSE WORDS AT BAY
Unless you’ve known each other for eons, and have somehow established cursing as part of your daily vocabulary, avoid it. Picture dating as a formal meeting in an informal setting.
That might make it easier to keep cursing to a minimum and avoid the awkward glances, from your date, or worse, other customers at the café. It might require hours or even months of practice to eliminate the F-word from your vocabulary. But the best time to begin practicing is now.
6. BE YOURSELF
Sure, first dates are your best bet to impress a prospective partner, but you don’t have to become someone you’re not before accomplishing that. Of course, this dating tip is not a free pass to bring uncouth habits like cursing or arrogance to the table.
If you are usually a jeans and t-shirt guy, but donning a suit to the first date to impress your date, let them know. Likewise, if you are a shy person, but had to memorize a hundred first date questions beforehand just to keep the conversation going, chip it in during the conversation.
Such open admissions make for some humor during the date. Bonus points if your date is easily impressed by such honesty or the extra effort.
7. DON’T HAVE TOO MUCH EXPECTATIONS
The excitement, enthusiasm, and anxiousness that come with hooking up on a first date are understandable. But remember to avoid putting too much pressure on the relationship even before it sees the light of day.
Hence, do not expect a “love at first sight” encounter, or anticipate a fairytale first date experience. It takes time to build the foundation of a relationship and form a bond. So avoid crushing the chances of that happening by having unrealistic expectations.
8. DO SOME BACKGROUND CHECK
None of the creepy stuff like stalking a prospective date or bugging their apartment is allowed, but doing some background check before a first date is important. Okay, maybe a little stalking is permissible, but just on social media.
The aim of this is to discover some information about the other person to enable you better impress them. Social media feeds can provide you with intimate information like their best food, favorite restaurant, favorite band, or best music genre.
Additionally, knowing these details can help give pointers at some fun date ideas that are sure to blow your date’s mind. This in turn leaves them wondering if you were some kind of sorcerer. Remember, no creepy stuff!
By adhering to these eight dating tips, be rest assured to land yourself a second date with your prospect, and a chance to steer the dating reigns in your favor.