Securing the date is one of the hardest parts – all you have to do now is not mess it up. This list could go far beyond just seven useful suggestions, but here are some of the most important ones to keep in mind.
- Consider location
Yes, the local bar you go to with your buddies has a nice beer selection but it’s not the right environment for a first date. Even practiced date-goers might overlook a few essential things to consider when choosing your venue. For instance, going somewhere overly crowded might make for difficult conversation. Try scheduling for a weeknight if you’re going to go for the busier spots.
- Stay away from messy foods
The purpose of this occasion is to get to know your date, not engorge yourself with the most flavorful dish the menu has to offer. An otherwise lovely evening can quickly turn sour if your date shamelessly covers themselves in BBQ sauce the first time you’re meeting them. While garlic might pair well with your entrée, you can’t say the same for a goodbye kiss. Do yourself (and your date) a favor and consider these factors when making your food selection.
- Don’t touch your phone
First date jitters can leave us unsure of what to do with our hands, sometimes allowing for a quick reach of the phone. While the occasional glance is acceptable in today’s technological age, more than a few seconds can show a complete disinterest in your date. Best case scenario, it breaks the mood and any momentum you might have been gathering. So keep your phone pocketed and instead turn your attention towards the present moment.
- Keep conversation light
Finding a good balance between opening up and not oversharing can be a bit tricky. Keep conversation light but be honest and genuine. Certain topics – gossip, politics, family drama – are typically best left for a later time. Anything awkward, uncomfortable, or inflammatory should be avoided altogether. Find common ground and expand upon that. What do you do in your spare time? What kind of music do you like? Have you seen this new movie? There are ways to form a connection without immediately jumping into the deeper topics.
- Pick your outfit carefully
This applies in a variety of ways, but a good place to start is to consider the dating environment. Wearing hats or glasses indoors is a no-go, but if you’re on a sunny rooftop it might be alright. Uncomfortable clothing – even if they look nice – can leave you distracted, fidgeting, and anxious. Those Jimmy Choos might look great in the mirror but when he asks if you want to walk around the block to this new speakeasy, are you going to be anxiety ridden? Make sure you’re dressed appropriately (and comfortably) for the occasion so that you can put your best foot forward.
- No dating talk
If you’re actively dating, leave the book of potentials you’ve been seeing out of conversation. It’s not necessary to immediately discuss big plans for the future, i.e. ‘’I want to get married and have children within a year.’’ Save those more serious conversations for a bit later down the road and instead opt for something more playful and fun. If you end up connecting, there will be plenty of time to hash out the rest.
- Carefully consider going Dutch
Although it’s best practice for both parties to be happy to chip in, studies show most women (and men, for that matter) expect the man to pay on the first date. Despite this, it’s typically a good idea to at least offer money for your half of the bill. It can come across as impolite to expect your bill will be paid in full without hesitation.
While these helpful hints can guide you in the right direction, sometimes you may require a more tailored approach. Our team at Maclynn International is comprised of dating coaches and relationship experts who can assist you in your dating journey. Get in touch with us to learn more about our service today.
