As First Date Specialists at Its Just Lunch, we’ve heard a lot of first date stories. A lot. We’ve heard some great stories and some “what were you thinking?” stories. Together as a team, we’ve brainstormed and put together a few tips to keep in mind when you’re on your date that will help you get that second date…and third, and fourth…
1.) Dress To Impress
When you’re sifting thru your closet, pick an outfit that your comfortable in and love, this will guarantee that you ooze confidence on your date, but also keep good posture and not fidget with any piece of clothing…pick out something that makes you feel (and look!) like a million bucks. Men, keep your colors to a minimum (neutrals work great…think black, gray, navy, white, beige). And don’t forget about your shoes! Women believe it says a lot about your personality...so make sure they’re clean and polished! Women, it’s important not to be too sexy...sexy, low-cut clothing can show a lack of self-confidence. Pick your best feature and show it off! Remember to keep your accessories to a minimum and keep your makeup to a natural look, one bold statement on the face is enough. And remember, ladies and gentleman, the importance of fresh breath, so carry some mints!
2.) Do Not Talk About Ex’s
No one wants to hear about your sad breakup or a bad date. Keep it positive, light and fun…this is only your first date. Instead of talking about past relationships, keep the conversation focused on what you like doing for fun, your hobbies and interests, your favorite vacation spot or what you like doing on the weekends. The same advice applies if you’re seeing other people…your date does not care about the other men/women you’re dating.
3.) Be Engaging With The Person Sitting Across From You
Do not have flirtatious banter with the waiter/waitress/bartender/hostess…same goes about having a wandering eye around the restaurant! Focus on the person sitting across from you and engage in your first-date conversation.
4.) Keep the Conversation Light
Avoid topics about religion, politics or social issues. Save these topics for a later date (3, 4 or 5). Remember, this is just a first date…and it’s important to keep it light and fun! The same goes for bragging and name dropping…your date will take this showing off as a turn-off. Trust us.
5.) Put Away Your Phone
Keep your phone in your pocket or purse and keep it there. Nothing is worse then repeatedly checking your phone throughout your date, texting, emailing or tweeting. It gives the impression that you’re not interested and you’re waiting for a better invitation to come along. Definitely not good first-date etiquette!
6.) Remember Your Notes
We always encourage our clients to keep a notebook about their matches and their feedback. That way, you have something to refer back on right before you walk into the restaurant to spark conversation. Refresh yourself on who you’re meeting before you go into the date, this will make a great first impression and show that you’re interested and excited about your date! Nothing is worse than mixing up your date’s details with someone else’s and it’ll save you from some embarrassment.
