In the first part of this video we looked at tips on meeting someone in person that you met on an online dating site, now let’s take a look at the most critical part of the date, you!
If you want to make the best potential mark on your date, here are a few tips to follow.
How you appear!
Good personal hygiene is really essential to successful dating, and many people make this basic blunder when meeting their match.
Dress for success!
Wear what is appropriate for where you are going to on the date. Maybe if you’re going to the opera, or a posh restaurant a suit or a gown is appropriate; likewise, if you dress smartly all the time anyway and you feel comfortable that way then go right ahead. However, if your usual attire is baggy slacks and a t-shirt, you might want to consider sprucing yourself up a little to show that you are interested, but digging out that old wedding suit and slathering a pound of gel over your hair is not going to make you seem more attractive; dress like yourself, wear what you feel most comfy and cool in.
Do try to relax and be confident (but not arrogant!). If you’re typically nervous on dates, try deep breathing exercises. Controlling your breathing in this way also lowers your blood pressure and heart rate.
Don’t start to drink to calm your nerves!
Most people find they drink more quickly or heavily in pressure situations, not only because the alcohol helps us feel relaxed but because it gives us something to do with our hands and mouths. Don’t let alcohol ruin your first date with your new match. Avoid alcohol as much as you can, at the very least keep it to no more than two drinks.
Do have good quality conversations with your date.
This means having plenty to talk about but also allowing your date space to talk, try not to dominate the conversation. Listen more than you talk. If you’re worried about drying up in conversation try looking back through the messages you have previously exchanged; what do you already know about your date? Think of questions you can ask that will give your date plenty to talk about without being too probing.
Don’t talk about your ex all night!
This is one of the worst faux pas you can make on a date. It’s ok to make a passing mention or respond to a question (briefly!), but in the main, your date is not going to want to hear about your prior relationships. You should also avoid talking about your health issues, asking unsuitable or overly nosey inquiries or making poorly chosen comments about your date’s appearances; “I like your hair/earrings/tie” is probably a safer bet in most circumstances than “What a great body you have”!
Above all, do remember that a good date should be fun for both of you. If you’re relaxed, having a good time and being yourself then you’ve immediately improved your chances of a successful dating experience.
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