You’re on a first date. You know that you’re already attracted to the woman you’re with and you’re pretty sure you want to see her again. But you also know that it’s hard to really impress someone on a first date, and you’re not entirely sure how she’s feeling about you. What can you do in order to instantly wow your date and make sure she’s interested in seeing you again?
Here are 12 things you can do on your first date, to make sure you get to the second:
Don’t Be Afraid to Smile. A smile is engaging and shows you’re confident and approachable. Don’t worry if you don’t have a Chris Pine mega-watt smile—your natural, genuine smile can still make a woman’s toes curl.
Pop a Mint. Personal hygiene goes a long way in making a positive first impression. It shows you’re confident and considerate. So make sure you’ve swiped on deodorant, your hair’s combed, and your teeth are brushed. Besides, your minty fresh breath can only be a good thing if you end up snagging that first kiss.
Dress Up. You don’t want to dress up too much since that makes you look stiff or like you’re trying too hard. However, looking like you put effort into your outfit goes a long way. Besides, if you feel confident and look confident, then you’ll act confident.
Put Your Phone Away. This is not strictly a date thing, it’s a life thing. The emails/Pokemon Go/Facebook messages can wait. In real life, human interaction is healthy, respectful and, well, very necessary on a date. Do it.
Make Eye Contact. Our addiction to smartphones has made eye contact a lost art, however it’s super important while making a solid connection with your date. Eye contact not only shows respect and interest, it’s also the biggest indicator of chemistry. “Getting lost in someone’s eyes” is a real thing. Believe it.
Open Doors. This is a bygone tradition that goes a long way. Opening a door is old-school romantic and a thoughtful chivalrous action that even the most independent-minded woman will appreciate.
Ask Questions But… Don’t treat your date like it’s a job interview. It’s important to learn more about your date and to show that you’re interested in her, but don’t come across as a HR recruiter. You don’t need to uncover every single piece of info. Let the convo flow naturally.
Keep it Classy. Avoid telling dirty jokes and swearing. It’s not that women are delicate flowers—your date could definitely share a bawdy sense of humor—but it’s best to get to know your date more in order to gauge how R-rated you can be.
Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously. We understand you’re nervous, but women love men who can laugh at themselves. Share a funny story about yourself with her. It can also serve as a great icebreaker.
Avoid Any Negativity. Maybe you’re a vegetarian and she eats meat. Maybe you don’t agree on the same politics. It’s okay to disagree, but don’t create a full-blown debate out of it. You’ll only leave your date with a sour taste in her mouth.
Go Easy on the Drinks. Having a glass of wine will get rid of those first date jitters, but no one likes a sloppy drunk. Make sure to keep your drinking to a two drink minimum so you’re unwinding at just the right tempo.
Compliment Her. Like the outfit she’s wearing? Adore the way she snorts when she laughs? Tell her. Women love compliments, and it’s a great way of letting her know that you’re into her.
First dates can be rough. There’s something unavoidably awkward about them and even if you’re trying your best to “just be yourself” it doesn’t always come off the way you’d like. Remember these easy tips, remind yourself that you’re both just trying to get to know each other at this point, and don’t forget to have fun. Chances are she’ll be interested enough to turn that first date into a second.
