Be On Time
Yes, things happen, but you really don’t want to keep your date waiting. When people wait too long they immediately go into “OMG. I’ve been stood up” mode. That’s not fun for anyone. If you’re running more than 10 minutes late, be sure to text and keep them posted.
Put Your Phone Away
Unless you’re waiting for an emergency phone call or there’s some other dire emergency, put the phone away. All your friends know where you are, so if you don’t get back ASAP to a text, they’ll understand. You want to make sure your date knows that they have your full attention. If your phone is out and you’re not texting, you’re conveying to them that something else is way more important.
Awkwardness Is Normal
First dates can be awkward. When you find yourself in the middle of a moment of silence simply saying something like, “Wow. So this is awkward. I’m sure there will be even more awkward silences to come,” is actually the kindest thing to do. Addressing the elephant in the room is always a good idea.
Be Honest
The first date is the place to bring up what your expectations are for the future. If you met through online dating, then take the opportunity to talk about why you’re both online and what you hope to gain from it. If you met in person or because you were set up, then get straight to the point of what you ideally want in a relationship.
Don”t Be Judgmental
It’s important to stick to your standards, but it’s also important to have an open mind. If your date shows up in an outfit you detest or has some sort of physical thing that you don’t find completely attractive, don’t immediately throw in the towel. Judging is totally normal, but judging to a point where you’re not even giving your date some slack or the benefit of the doubt is a bad move.
Be Open-Minded
While you may not love everything they’re saying, you need to be open about it. You can’t really get to know someone if you can’t be open-minded enough to give them a shot. It may be your initial reaction to shut them down when they say something you don’t agree with. It may be rare, but sometimes total opposites do fall in love and make it. Be open to the fact that the night could take you anywhere.
Keep ‘Ex’ Talk To A Minimum
That is just a given. If they do ask, be as honest as you’re comfortable with, but be wary of talking smack. This date is about a new beginning, and there’s plenty of time to rehash your past if you get involved. If they talk about their ex, just smile and make a mental note. If they talk poorly about their ex, then be weary.
Lesley Mneimne, matchmaker – Agence LM