Editorial

First date jitters? 8 tips to make a good impression

First dates are almost always nerve-wracking and awkward. You want to plan your date perfectly so that you both have a great time and get to know each other on

First date jitters? 8 tips to make a good impression
  • PublishedJuly 28, 2021

First dates are almost always nerve-wracking and awkward. You want to plan your date perfectly so that you both have a great time and get to know each other on a personal level. However, you also do not want to come across as someone who is trying too hard and investing in something that may not even work out. All the planning and fancy dressing will all be for nothing if you do not know how to behave on a first date. Therefore, knowing how to behave on a date is crucial to how it all ends.

The first date determines how you progress with the person later. The outcome of the date is what decides whether there will be a second date or not.

The following are 8 tips to make a good impression on a first date:

1.     Be yourself

At the end of the day, we as human beings tend to overdo things on the first date so that we can make a good impression. We let our nerves and anxiety get the best of us. However, it’s important to be yourself and stay true to who you are so that your potential partner can know you individually and on a personal level. Authenticity is key!

2.     Be on time

Being late is the easiest way to give a bad impression. Whether you have a valid excuse or not being late always gives the impression that you do not value the time the other person has allotted for the date. This small act can be taken as a sign of disrespect which is why it better to arrive on time or better yet, a few minutes earlier.

3.     Keep the touches friendly and casual

There is no rule about touching but keep it friendly. After all you are trying to get to know this person. It is advisable to keep the touches light and harmless. A friendly tap on the shoulder or touch on the arm for assurance would suffice. Personal space is very important as you do not want to make your date feel uncomfortable on the first date.

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4.     Don’t hog the conversation

Nobody likes a know-it-all, or someone who is only talking about themselves. On the other hand, during a first date try not to get overexcited and ask too many questions and give your date a chance to finish speaking before you respond.

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5.     Don’t drink too much

Although there is nothing wrong with drinking on a first date there is a limit to how much should be consumed. A few drinks can calm nerves and anxiety as well as make conversation easier. However, being drunk on a first date is simply unacceptable!

6.     Do not talk about past relationships

Common sense tells us that talking about past relationships on a date with a potential partner is a big mistake. By talking about past relationships, you are giving your partner the idea that they are a rebound or that you are still hung up on your ex.

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7.     Keep it classy

Men should behave like a gentleman and women should behave like ladies. Women will always appreciate a gentleman’s display of chivalry. Open the door for her, pull out a chair, take her coat etc. Whilst men will always appreciate a woman who behaves like a lady– dresses to impress, watches her language etc.

8.     Be attentive to your date

By being attentive to your date you are making sure that they are comfortable with the location, environment, and food etc. Furthermore, you should also be attentive that they are comfortable with the topics you bring up. You should also be attentive and avoid being distracted by other things in the environment whether it be your phone or another person. On a first date both parties should have each other’s undivided attention.

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