First dates are always hit or miss. Some dates bring you joy and anticipation for further meetings, while others feel more like a nightmare you want to forget.

Have you just met someone special and are wondering what you can do to make your first date great? Here are a few valuable tips for you.

Choose a First Date Location Wisely

Restaurants are the most popular location for a first date, but not the best ones. If you want to have a successful first date, go to a cozy bar or coffee shop instead. Firstly, these places have a more relaxing and calm atmosphere. Secondly, if you quickly understand that there is no spark between the two of you, you can finish your drink and say goodbye – you don’t need to wait for the dinner to be over. Thirdly, you will spend less money – no one wants to overspend on a first date, right?

Just keep in mind that busy places do not work well for the first date – background noise makes it impossible to enjoy the conversation. When looking for a suitable bar or coffee shop, choose the least crowded spot.

Do Some Research

What do you already know about this person? Do you know what hobby he has or where she works? The more facts you know about your date, the easier it will be to start a conversation and avoid awkward silence.

If you have met on a popular app for dating, look through the person’s profile paying attention to small details like what this person likes to drink and what clothes to wear. Read the bio and analyze what you see in the photos.

Let’s say you have found pictures in which your date is posing in front of the Eiffel Tower. You can use this information to start a conversation. Ask questions like these: “Was it your first trip to Paris? Is the Eiffel Tower as magical in real life as we see it in pictures?” By asking these questions, you will show your date your genuine interest and shake off the awkwardness of the moment.

Don’t Talk Too Much

The first date must be a two-sided conversation, not a monologue of one person. So don’t talk too much about yourself even if your date keeps asking you questions. Ask questions back to engage the person in conversation. In such a way, you will get to know each other better and see whether you should go on a second date. 

Watch Your Body Language

Your body language may also influence the outcomes of the first date. So be aware of your moves, gestures, and facial expressions:

• Don’t cross your legs and arms – this pose is seen as insecure, defensive, and anxious. Place your arms at your sides, in your lap, or on the table.
• If you like the person, you can lean forward or play with your hair (just don’t overdo it!).
• Smile. The more you smile, the better. When you smile, your brain gets a signal that everything is fine and there is nothing to stress about. You feel more relaxed and less awkward.

Be Yourself and Enjoy Your First Date

Most first dates fail because people try too hard to impress each other. But the truth is that if you are looking for a relationship, not just a one-night stand, you should be yourself. No one is perfect, so you shouldn’t feel ashamed of your imperfections.

The best strategy for the first date is to behave and talk in the way you do in everyday life. If you meet the right person, there will be an instant click – you will not miss it.