How to Impress the Parents
Most new relationships come to the point where one partner decides it is time for the other partner to meet the parents. In some cases this might be to show off the "catch." In others, however, it is an opportunity to run an option by the parents--to see how they feel about the person their child has decided to date. Regardless of the reason, meeting a loved ones parents for the first time is a daunting task. First impressions are important and learning how to impress the parents the first time around can go a long way towards building a healthy relationship with your partner and future in-laws.
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Instructions
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Prepare yourself. Try to obtain as much information as possible about the parents you are about to meet. The best place to start is with your partner but do not be shy in using Google to find out a little bit about the companies they work for or anything spectacular they might have accomplished. Ask your partner about their political preferences, hobbies or other interests. Knowing these things will help you make small talk and will show them that you are interested in them rather than thinking of the rendezvous as a chore. Also find out if they are traditional, formal or casual.
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Shake hands and appear excited to be there. When the time comes to actually be introduced to the parents, do not be shy. Rather than offer a casual wave from a distance, get close, offer a firm handshake and say something such as, "Nice to meet you."
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Talk. One of the worst things you can do is appear indifferent during conversation. Remember that you came into this even well-prepared and you should have plenty of ammunition for conversation. Even it sounds stupid to you, ask the parents about things you already know they are interested in. While you will earn points for caring about their interests, this has the added benefit of guiding the conversation away from you.
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Ask questions. During conversation do not simply nod and follow along. Interject observations and ask interesting questions to show that you are listening attentively. Avoid asking so many questions that these dominate the overall conversation, however.
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Help out. If you have been invited to your partner's parent's house for dinner, a great way to impress is to offer to clear the table or help out with the dishes. In some cases your overtures will not be accepted but they will be impressed that you offered. If you do, in fact, end up doing the dishes, this can be a good respite from an otherwise stressful evening. You will likely be alone or with just one other person.
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Remember to say please and thank you, particularly at a house party, but that's also important if you go out to eat with your partner's parents. Saying please and thank you to the waiter shows that you know how to handle yourself in public.
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Recount the evening the next time you see the parents. Thank them again for inviting you over and, if something topical was discussed during the first meeting that is appropriate to bring up again, do not hesitate to do so.
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Tips & Warnings
Dress appropriately for the occasion. A formal dinner requires similar clothing, while a backyard BBQ is an opportunity to dress more casually. Your partner should be able to offer some tips as to what the parents are expecting.
Avoid being too touchy at first.
