Wowing a First Date

Wowing a First Date

First dates are notorious for being one of the most nerve-wracking events in the world of relationships. In modern times, dating is extremely common and essential to those looking for love. Although the skills necessary to leave a good impression on a potential partner may come naturally to some, the opposite is usually the case for many. Even if you have spent considerable time communicating online, it can be intimidating to meet face to face with someone for the first time, especially if that person will be evaluating whether or not they would like to continue the pursuit of a more intimate relationship with you. However, with the right set of skills, wowing a date is a much less daunting task than how it is portrayed.

Introduce Yourself

One of the most important preparations for a successful first date is deciding what you would like to talk about. Consider things such as your interests, qualities, goals and how you would incorporate those things into a casual conversation. Have ideas for topics ready in case you find it hard to get the discussion flowing. Keep in mind that the things you say to your date are a big part of their first impression of you. Try to avoid talking about things that are too heavy for a first encounter such as religion, politics, past relationships, or marriage. Keep the dialogue interesting and light-hearted.

Be a Good Listener

Another crucial aspect of a first date is listening. Aside from what you know you would like to talk about, keep in mind that you should listen to your date. Nobody likes to be interrupted, and talking too much can result in your date feeling as if you aren't truly interested in them. If your date is a bit shy or quiet, ask them questions about things like pets, hobbies, and other topics that most people would have a positive reaction to. Being a good listener is a very valuable quality in any situation and can make the date more engaging for both of you.

Look the Part

Looks definitely aren't everything when it comes to relationships, but they are useful in catching the interest of a potential partner. You don't have to be the most attractive person in the world, but you should make sure you are clean, well-groomed, and dressed appropriately. Match your attire and appearance to the location, weather, and planned activity. Wear something you feel confident in and know you won't be adjusting the whole time. Worrying about things like wardrobe malfunctions or being under-dressed can distract you from your main goal... getting to know your date and making a good impression!

Take Down Your Front

It may sound cliche, but above all else, be yourself. Pretending to be someone else means you have missed the point of dating altogether, which is finding someone you are truly compatible with. You can only hide your true self for so long, so make sure that your date likes you for you, saving you some grief in the future and making dating lots more fun as well!

Though the first date may seem like an obstacle, it really only takes a bit of planning, social skills, and confidence. Relax, do a little planning, and get ready for many enjoyable dates to come.

Comments (2)

affinityjcp
The most important thing is that your photo posted is actually a current photo.
I can't tell you how many men tell me that the woman they met for the first time looked nothing like the phtoto on the profile.
The profile information is important- so make it honest.

I have also been told by men that the age reported is not accurate so you can understand the disappointment when they actually meet you.

Be real.
Be honest.
Be you.

Wishing you the best in your searching.
cloudy58
I think this article was very interesting, I really enjoyed reading it and I also learnt some interesting points for my first online date (which I am in a turmoil about before I have been even asked out).

I think the point that stood out for me was
To Be Myself, no acts or B/S, how long can any woman keep an act going?. Myself not for long and if I end up really liking the guy I realise what a mess I have got myself into.

I really like my first date and he thinks I am someone else who either he likes or who puts him off.
What a shame, was my self esteem so low I did not think I was good enough so I needed to be someone I was'nt especially at my age 53.

Thank goodness I have grown out of pretending and if I make a big boo boo at least he did'nt like me the real me.

I am OK as a woman and the first date no matter what age is anxiety provoking so as the article says if I have my plan (my questions and interests in my head) I am not as likely to get tongue tied and boring.

I do like to look good, but that has been me for as long as I can remember, so it is not an act if he gets scared off he is running from ME.

Introduce myself that is a good one I would have thought it comes naturally but if I am anxious I might forget and not start the date from the beginning, it also shows good manner. It could start a good conversation about my home town and his as well as the conversation follows. I must remember it is not all about me, I don't want to have to do all the talking a content silence gives us time to get our thinking into gear.

Thank you for the article
Cloudy58

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