Online dating can be a lot of fun but its function is as a precursor to the all-important first date. Like an interview, it’s all about selling yourself and making a good first impression. On the surface that sounds like a big ask, but it doesn’t have to be. Toyboy Warehouse have made your a list of “Dos” and “Don’ts” to help you get set.
Do
Establish eye contact – Do this from early on. I still remember the first time I made eye contact with my partner – and that was almost five years ago. That’s how powerful it can be. Dilated pupils are also a sure fire way of working out if someone is into you, so it’s not just your own interest in the situation that is being revealed each time you gaze into your date’s eyes.
Make an effort – Turn up looking smart and clean and you will find that feeling good just naturally follows. Treat yourself to a new shirt or lipstick and you will get that special feeling from using it for the first time. It is also a good opportunity to get organised. Pack a roll of mints or spare pair of tights to make you feel prepared, empowered and completely on top of this situation.
Show your friendly side – Remember to speak and listen and maintain a good balance in the conversation. Women love to talk but so do men. Don’t talk too much about work either. You might be lucky enough to have a job you really love but unless your date seems really interested, don’t let it dominate your chat. Keep your body language relaxed and your discussion open and see how your date opens up to you as a result.
Be yourself – Remember, that is who they came here to date and if anyone rejects you for this reason, they weren’t worth your time to begin with.
Don’t
Brag – Some people like to brag, but no one likes to listen to someone else bragging. Confidence is sexy, arrogance is not. Try to relate to the things the other person is saying, but don’t feel like you need to go one better. Let your best side shine alongside, rather than outshine, your date.
Overshare – So you flushed your iphone down the toilet last weekend and you have chronic atheletes foot: nobody’s perfect. But if there’s something you’re insecure about, don’t act like you’re insecure about it tonight. While it is important in a relationship to be accepted with your flaws, this will just make you feel more aware of them in a situation that is already extra sensitive. We know you’re awesome, give your date chance to find out too.
Forget your date’s name – I’m sure you’d never do this, but I really can’t emphasise enough, it’s so unimpressive whenever this happens. Use their name in a text message to a friend or repeat it in your head three times after they first say it.
Get drunk on the first date – Dutch courage is always a tempting option, but not having control of your mouth won’t do you any favours. Try a two drink maximum (OK, lets be real and say three) but after that call it quits – get pumped, not hammered.
I know that sounds like a lot to bear in mind at the same time, but if there’s one thing to remember on your first date it’s to relax. It’s common to feel anxiety about meeting for the first time, but don’t sweat it too much – the whole point is to have fun with someone new! It’s not really an interview and if it doesn’t go well, you haven’t lost a thing! And if it does… well, who knows?
Tell us your views: do you have any first date tips? Have you ever had any first date disasters? Share your story in the comments below or tweet us your tips.
Written by TBW Admin and published as part of our 30 Blogs in 30 Days campaign.
