How to Have a Great First Date

(It's easier than you think!)

Dating can be tricky in the modern world. Sure, we have more ways of communicating with each other than ever before, but meeting people is still difficult when it comes to romance. However, once you do secure that special someone’s number, the focus then becomes on having a successful first date. But what does that mean? Are there any rules or tips to help improve your chances that you will make that great connection? (Why, I’m so glad you asked!)

Here are some easy tips to help improve your chances that you will not only enjoy your first date together, but that you will secure a second date, as well.

Have a happy date!

Tip 1: Dress to Impress

The first impression is hard to undo, am I right? How you present yourself on your first date will immediately set the stage for how your date will perceive you. You want to dress for success and dress for the occasion. If you are meeting somewhere casual, like for coffee or lunch, you can still look laid-back without sacrificing style. When you dress in a way that shows that you respect yourself, it also lends itself to showing the other person you are with how you expect to be treated. If you are going out for dinner or an event in the evening, don’t be afraid to take a little extra time and put in the effort. It will show that you take this date seriously and that you take pride in your appearance.

Tip 2: Be Punctual

When you agree to meet for dinner at 7:00, for example, it isn’t nice to keep your date waiting. 7:00 means 7:00, not 7:15, not 7:30. I’ve had people ask me why their date didn’t go as planned, and it usually involved some sort of time management issue. If you disrespect your date by not showing up on time, it shows them that they were not a priority, and then it is all downhill from there. If they don’t feel respected, what kind of impression could you possibly give that could secure a second date? So be kind, and show up on time.

Tip 3: Keep the Conversation Fun and Light

First date conversation can be tricky to navigate. No, this isn’t the time to bring up the ex-files. This isn’t the time to discuss your biological clock ticking, and for the love of all that is holy in this world, please leave your political/religious philosophies at the door. All of that can wait. Seriously. Talk about shared interests and hobbies. Don’t chat about work for the entire night. That’s boring. No really, it is. Instead, talk about your travels, your pets, your favorite foods, your favorite movies and books...get into the good stuff and leave the heavy stuff for another time.

Tip 4: Money Matters

The dinner date is always an awkward dance. You may not know what the other person is thinking. Who should pay for dinner? Who should buy the drinks? I believe that when the bill comes at the end of a first date, as a woman, it is always polite to offer to pay for your half. As a man, you should also offer to pick up the tab, especially if you just had a couple of drinks. Now if the one person is hell-bent on picking up the full bill, thank them and offer to either leave a tip or perhaps buy coffee or dessert somewhere else. At the end of the day, it isn’t really important who picks up the bill, insofar as both parties offer.

Tip 5: Be Direct

If you had a great time, or if your interest in the other person was piqued, let them know. Now is not the time to beat around the bush and play phone-tag for another week. If you want to see them again, and the feeling is mutual, make plans. Don’t play that “I’ll wait until he/she texts me/calls me/emails me. I’ll give them three days and then write them off...” In the modern world, we are too easily distracted, so if you want to make a lasting impression, line up that second date and don’t let the “what ifs” cloud your judgment. Strike while the fire is hot!

Remember, dating is supposed to be fun. Follow these simple tips to take the stress out of meeting new people and enjoy the journey!

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Like this article? Check out other articles by the editor of twoday magazine, Natalie Bencivenga: