First dates can be nerve-wracking, especially when you’ve never met each other before. If you’ve met through a dating app (finding somebody from the likes of Tinder who will actually turn up is an achievement in itself) then all you have to go by is a couple of photos and a cheesy bio. To avoid awkward silences, take a look at these tips to help your first date go as successfully as possible.
Arrive On Time
Being late to a first date is not a clever idea. This is your chance to make a good first impression so please don’t mess it up! If you can, try to arrive a few minutes early to avoid your date feeling like they’ve been stood up. Trust me, nobody wants to check their phone every five seconds watching the time go by. Especially if you’ve made a reservation for a certain time.
Give A Gift
Students don’t have tons of money but a small gift can make your date feel special. Buying them some flowers or chocolates gives off the impression that you haven’t just rolled out of bed and turned up. You’ve taken time to think about them. This sets things up to go in the right direction.
Make Eye Contact
As hard as it can be at first, it’s so important to make eye contact with your date. Looking down at the table all the time will only create a barrier in them getting to know you. Open up, relax and remember that you are both here to try to make a connection.
Ask Questions About Them
Do not just waffle on about your own life, as interesting as it might be. While it’s important for your date to get to know you, it is also equally important for you to get to know them. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their lives (but make sure they are appropriate) and engage in a way that makes you look interested (even if you can’t relate.)
Pay Compliments
Compliments can completely change the vibe of a date. It can immediately help create a flirty atmosphere and makes your date feel on top of the world. Mentioning their outfit, smile or personality is a great way of breaking the ice when you first meet too.
Make Wise Food And Drink Choices
The number one rule for dates is to stay away from garlic (just in case you have a cheeky kiss.) This aside, be careful with other food and drink choices that you know are not going to agree with you. I tend to feel a little sick with nerves before dates, so I usually steer clear of alcohol as I know that will only make this feeling worse. The last thing you want is to spend half your date in the loos.
Offer To Pay For The Date/ Split The Bill
It can be difficult to agree on who is going to pay the bill but I suggest always offering to pay for the date if you are the one that arranged it. On the other hand, if your date offers to pay all of the bill, chip in and offer to split it with them. Meals out can be expensive, especially for students, so this will instantly highlight your good nature and be much appreciated. It also does wonders in laying out your intentions; it can help you come across as being serious about wanting to get to know each other better.