How to Behave on a First Date

So you've met someone you're attracted to (or your friends have hooked you up) and you find yourself about to head out on a first date. Many people get nervous because they don't know what to expect, what to wear or even how to behave. If you don't want to screw it up, read below to find out how you can make the first date a successful one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Relax. It's only a meeting between two human beings. You do it all the time, but just because you might like this person or are excited to see them, you put a lot of emphasis on the date. Just be cool, take a deep breath, and focus on the fact that they could be anywhere but made a choice to spend time with you.

2. Be yourself. It sounds trite, but if you're not the kind of person who usually opens doors or pulls out chairs, don't pretend to be. It's fine to be courteous, but don't just pull out her chair just because it's a first date. If it's something that you usually do, then go for it. But don't be the person who does it on the first date and then never again.

3. Smile. We tend to smile back at people who smile at us. It also shows you as a warm, approachable person.

4. Talk. Just remember that it is a meeting, not an interview. Instead of asking questions like "What do you do?" or "Do you like what you do?" ask "What's the best thing about what you do?" It makes the person focus on the positives of their job rather than the negatives. If you find yourself running out of things to say, ask "If you could wake up anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would it be?" People generally think about this one and might even give you more to talk about. Don't bring up old stories in hopes of sympathy.

5. Listen. When you pay attention and listen to the other person, they feel like they have your attention and would probably want to spend more time with you.

6. Touch, but don't grope. It's important to recognize a person's comfort level, but touching gently on the arms or back is a normal part of flirting. Naturally, if the person feels comfortable from your conversation, they wouldn't mind little touching and might even welcome it.

7. If you're out having dinner or coffee, be polite to the person serving you. If you come across as mean to that person, it could prove to be a big turn off.

8. Relax. Yes it was step one but it's also the last step. Don't try too hard. Just relax and enjoy the date...um, meeting.

Tips & Warnings

• Always bring extra cash in case of emergency.
• Avoid bringing up past relationships or talking too much about your last break-up.

[serena08]

on 5/31/2008 This is a very helpful article. I think that these few simple tips will help a lot of people. Good job!

[vysh89]

on 5/20/2008 thNX a LOt....iTZ helpUl moreoveR itZ ma firt date toMorW so Im SHy nd tensed..so i'll keep deSE in ma miND..thnX a lOT..
gREat tipS..:)

[SugarBaby]

on 4/29/2008 Excellent dating tips to start your first date.

I love the question "If you could wake up anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would it be?" This will tell you a bit about their personality.

Wishing you continued success!

[wolfplanet]

on 4/8/2008 Let's not joke. In Chicago a first date means you are up for GRABS. FREE sex.
I agree that you should carry emergency money because chances are you will be left stranded walking on foot or driving away alone when the FREE deal is done with.

Good Luck!

[Suexi]

on 4/7/2008 Enjoyed your article! You know we know these things, but first dates can be so nerve-wracking, it's ALWAYS good to get a refresher. Thanks for writing this!