When you meet someone for the first time, it’s important to make a good first impression. Most people will make an assessment very quickly and determine whether or not they feel there is any chemistry between you. So we’ve put together these three essential tips to help you put your best foot forward from the very first date.
1. Be Yourself
Some people make the mistake of projecting an image or personality that they think the other person will be attracted to. Unfortunately, this doesn’t usually work the way that we would like it to. Most people can sense when someone is putting on a front or not being genuine and they often won’t trust you as a result.
You want someone to be attracted to the real you so that you can enjoy your time together without feeling anxious or deceptive. Let yourself feel free to show your true personality. Often times it is our most unique traits that can attract our ideal date.
This does not mean that you need to share your deepest darkest secrets the very first time you meet someone for a date. Nor does it mean you should be trying to sell the person on your greatest achievements. Be natural and let the conversation take its course, sharing details about yourself that you are comfortable with.
2. Listen
If you are a good conversationalist then you will know how important listening is. If the person you’re talking to gets the impression that you are merely waiting for your turn to talk about yourself then it can be quite off-putting. On the other hand, if you make eye contact and listened intently then you will be showing that you are genuinely interested in what the person has to say.
Ask questions to show that you are paying attention to the other person and avoid looking around while they are speaking. Listen attentively and you will make your date much more comfortable.
A couple of things to avoid:
- watching the TV in the restaurant – they’re really distracting, but it’s important to focus on the person you’re with
- playing with your mobile phone – nothing says “I’m not interested” faster!
3. Dress Appropriately
The way you dress for your first date can make an important first impression. You should dress appropriately for the venue that you will be meeting at. For example, if you are going out for a drink at a nice bar downtown you don’t want to wear a T-shirt and jeans. Likewise, you wouldn’t want to wear dress clothes for a date at the bowling alley.
Choose clothes that accentuate your best features and accurately portray your personality. Keep in mind that your accessories can be interesting conversation points: “These shoes? There’s actually a funny story about where I bought them…”
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If you’re after more personalised, in depth information on how to go about dating, we offer one-on-one consultations for a fee – visit our membership options page for more details.
You only have one chance to make a first impression – so make sure you put your best foot forward.
And good luck!