Dating - First Date Tips

Going out on a first date can be a daunting proposition. While dating is usually a process filled with anxiety and the constant struggle to navigate expectations, first dates are particularly harrowing for some people. You are trying to get to know the other person a bit more but at the same time you want to leave the best possible impression about yourself to pave the way for continued outings if you end up being interested. Ensuring the possibility of a second date is not always something that happens automatically and thus you should pay heed to the following tips if you want to make sure that your first date is a success.

The Essential Tip

Whatever you do and independently of any amount of preparation you wish to undertake for this event there is one piece of advice most people would do well to follow: have a backup plan ready. No matter how many times you've gone over things, how interested you think both you and the other party are and how the weather lady has assured that no tornadoes would strike today, almost anything could happen on a first date. Taking 15 minutes to devise a simple but effective backup plan can make all of these disastrous events into amusing anecdotes. If you used a dating service to set up the encounter, make sure that you've exchanged any sort of contact details, besides e-mail, that could allow you to let the other party know if there has been an emergency that is preventing you from arriving on time or at all. If you are going to make a bad impression (because it will) at least try to make it as light as possible.

Other Important Tips

You should plan for something short and fun. Keep first date length between one and two hours. This is enough time to talk and get to know the other person but not enough time for things to drag on into boredom territory if either of you isn't interested. Once you have your plan, make sure to arrive on time. Everyone hates waiting on a first date and even a small delay can make the date start off with the wrong foot. Once you are with the other person, make sure you listen to what they have to say. Of course you need to speak about yourself to let the other person know you, but be comfortable in taking a step back and have them enjoy the spotlight of the conversation.

Warning

Whatever you do, make sure that you drink responsibly during your first date. It is not uncommon to hear horror stories that started when people drank in excess during their first dates. So remember, if you must drink at all, keep it to a minimum.