Aussie Dating Tips - First Date Dos and Don’ts

How to make your first ‘offline’ date a success

You’ve met this person online and you two are getting on like a house on fire…so maybe its time to take the next step? Wait, I meant the first date. What were you thinking?

Anyway, so that your first ‘offline’ date goes well, here are some dos and don’ts I’ve learnt over the years, through my own (sometimes not-so-great) first date experiences.

DO…

1. Dress Well
   First impressions are important so make an effort to dress well. Girls, try not to wear anything too low cut or short on the first date as it might send out the wrong signals. Blokes, have a shower and don’t just rock up for a date in your boardies! Smart casual is the best way to go for both men and women.
   
2. Choose a Good Venue
   It’s easy to just do a dinner and drinks date but for a really fun date try being a little more creative. A theme park could be good or maybe some activity you both enjoy? Have a look here for some ideas on where to go on a first date.
   
3. Make Conversation
   You might have great conversation online, but sometimes the pressure of a date can stifle the conversation. Make an extra effort, and maybe even have a think about what you could talk about before you head out for the date. Also, it’s best to avoid controversial and sensitive issues in a first date conversation, so steer clear of discussing things like politics, sex, money and definitely the ex!
   
4. Pay attention
   You wouldn’t like it if your date constantly looked like they wanted to be someplace else so don’t do it to them either. Don’t talk on the phone incessantly or keep sending texts to your mates about the date. Look at them when they’re talking instead of looking away. If you’re not paying attention, you obviously don’t care about being there.
   
5. Read Body Language
   You really like your date but not sure how your date feels? Well, short of just asking them straight out, you could interpret some tell-tale signs to gauge their interest. Positive body language will mean they look into your eyes when talking, they will lean towards you, they will smile and yes, they will be paying attention etc.
   
   

DON’T…

1. Be Late
   Like I said before, first impressions matter. I once went on a date where the man kept me waiting for 20 minutes, and didn’t bother apologising. The date wasn’t all that great and he tried to convince me to grab a coffee after, and said “I’m supposed to meet some mates but they can wait.” That sealed his case! Needless to say, I never saw him again. It just showed his lack of concern or respect for anyone else’s time.
   
2. Lie
   Being yourself is important because if your date doesn’t like you for who you are, too bad for them. I’m not saying you have to tell-all right away. Some stuff is best saved for later dates but don’t lie. For example, if you’re in-between jobs say so, instead of making up stories about a non-existent job. If you’re divorced and have kids, don’t wait till the tenth date to spring it on them!
   
3. Assume the Worst
   Be confident and don’t automatically assume your date is going badly. It’s normal to have a few awkward moments including silent pauses. It’s normal to be nervous. But if you’re confident, you automatically become more attractive to your date.
   
4. Get Drunk
   Don’t drink too much at your date. Being off your face the very first time you meet isn’t exactly the best impression to give of yourself. Also, it could be especially dangerous if you’re a girl because it’s easier for men to take advantage of you.
   
5. Jump into the Sack
   I have three words for you – restraint, restraint, restraint! It’s your first date for God’s sake! Men and women – your date will definitely have much more respect for you if you exercise restraint. If things go well, you have plenty of time. If they don’t, well, it was good idea that restraint wasn’t it?
   
   

So good luck on your first date and go out there and make me proud!

Tell me about your first date experiences and what you’ve learnt from them. We need all the advice we can get!

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