Are you getting ready for a first date and feeling a little nervous? You're not alone!
First dates can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can make a great impression and have a great time.
In this article, we'll be discussing some practical first date advice for men. From getting ready to having conversation topics in mind, we'll cover everything you need to know to make your first date a success.
So, whether you're a seasoned dater or it's your first time out there, let's get started and make sure you're ready to make the best impression possible. It’s time for our first date advice for men.
Table of Contents
Choosing the right location
Importance of the location
If you’ve asked a girl out and she’s said yes, then congratulations! Making a move and getting the date agreed is half the battle.
Now, it’s onto choosing the right location.
This is a very important decision. The location can set the tone for the date and create the right atmosphere for getting to know each other. The wrong location can make the date feel uncomfortable and unenjoyable.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing the location for your first date:
Consider your date’s interests: If they love the outdoors, a hike or a picnic might be a great idea. If they are a food lover, a trendy restaurant would be perfect.
How formal do you want it: A fancy restaurant might be too formal for a first date, while a casual coffee shop might be too informal. You want to choose a location that is comfortable and conducive to conversation.
Easy to get to: Make sure it’s easy for you both to get to, you don’t want to travel hours just to make it. And if the date is going well, you don't want to have to worry about transportation or parking.
Timings: If it's a daytime date, choose a location that has natural light, and if it's an evening date, choose a location that has a good ambiance.
Ultimately, the most important thing is that you make the other person feel comfortable. So, try to put yourself in their shoes and think about what kind of location would make them feel at ease.
Some first date suggestions
If you’re looking for some inspiration then we’ve gathered a few suggestions for different types of dates to consider:
Activities: This is one of our top recommendations. If you both enjoy a specific activity, such as bowling, ice-skating or mini-golf, consider doing that activity together. Big cities have lots of activity date possibilities, and it can be a fun way to break the ice and enjoy each other's company. Walking around doing activities also helps work off any nervous energy.
Cultural events: If you both enjoy art, music, or theater, consider going to a museum, concert or a play as a first date. This can be a great way to find common interests and have a stimulating conversation.
Outdoor activities: If the weather is nice, consider taking your date for a walk in a park, a hike, a bike ride or a picnic. This can be a great way to get some fresh air, enjoy nature and have a relaxed conversation.
Food and drinks: A restaurant or a bar can be a great option for a first date. You can choose a casual spot for a coffee or a drink, or a more formal spot for a meal. If you're not sure what type of food they like, consider trying a new place that serves a variety of dishes.
Adventure: If you're both adventurous, consider doing something exciting together. This can be something like rock climbing, bungee jumping, or taking a hot air balloon ride.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose a location that you both feel comfortable in and that allows you to get to know each other better. And don't be afraid to try something new or out of the ordinary, as it can make the date more memorable and exciting.
What does she like?
Choosing a date based on her interests and what she likes is always a good idea. Here are some more tips for considering the girl’s personality for a first date:
Ask about their interests: If you're not sure what the other person likes, ask them! You can ask them about their hobbies, favorite activities, or the type of music or movies they enjoy. This will give you a good idea of what kind of location they would enjoy.
Research the location: If you have an idea of the type of location you want to take the other person to, research it beforehand. Look at the menu, the atmosphere, and the reviews. You can even check out the location on Google Street View to get a sense of what it looks like.
Be mindful of their comfort level: Consider the other person's comfort level when choosing a location. If they are shy or introverted, a quiet coffee shop might be a better choice than a crowded bar. Similarly, if they are more outgoing, a lively location like a comedy club would be great.
Be open-minded: Be open-minded and willing to try new things. If the other person suggests a location or activity that you're not familiar with, be willing to give it a try. You never know, you might end up discovering something new that you both enjoy.
By considering the other person's interests, you're showing them that you care about their preferences and that you want to make the date as enjoyable as possible for them. And ultimately, that's what first dates are all about - getting to know each other better and having a good time together.
Making a good impression
Getting ready
So now you've chosen the location and it's been agreed.
It's onto making a good first impression. This is always near the top of our first date advice for men.
Dressing to make a good first impression on a first date is important because it can affect how the other person perceives you and how you perceive yourself.
When getting dressed for a first date, make sure you are dressed appropriately for the location and activity you have planned. For example, if you're going to a fancy restaurant, dress up a little more than you would for a casual coffee date. If you're going for a hike, wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Try to choose clothes that reflect your personality and make you feel comfortable and confident. You probably want to avoid wearing clothes that are too flashy or have too many patterns, unless that’s your usual attire. Stick with simple, classic clothing that is easy on the eyes and easy to mix and match.
Remember that confidence is key, and how you dress is just one aspect of it. If you feel good about yourself and your appearance, it will show in your body language and attitude. By dressing to make a good first impression, you're showing the other person that you respect them enough to make an effort and that you're taking the date seriously. It also gives a good impression of yourself as a person who takes care of themselves.
Ultimately, dressing well can help boost your confidence and make you feel more comfortable and relaxed on the date.
Grooming tips
Grooming is an important aspect of making a good first impression on a first date. It shows that you care about your appearance and that you are making an effort to look your best. Here are a few grooming tips to keep in mind:
First, make sure you shower and shave. This may seem like an obvious step, but it's important to make sure that you are clean and fresh before a date. Take a shower and use a good quality soap to ensure that you're smelling great. If you're going for a shave, make sure you use a sharp razor and shaving cream. This will give you a smooth and clean-shaven look.
Another important aspect of grooming is to pay attention to your hair. Make sure your hair is clean, styled and well-groomed. If you have long hair, make sure it's tied back or styled in a way that's neat and tidy. If you have short hair, make sure it's trimmed and styled.
Don't forget your nails, they should be clean and trimmed, and if you're planning on wearing open-toed shoes, make sure your feet are clean and well-groomed too.
Lastly, make sure you're dressed in clean and ironed clothes, this will give a good impression on the first date, and it shows that you're making an effort to look your best.
We hope a lot of this goes without saying. But by paying attention to these grooming tips, you'll be able to make a great first impression and feel more confident on your date.
Be ten minutes early
Being punctual is a vital aspect of first date etiquette. It shows that you respect the other person's time and that you're reliable.
Look, guys. She’s probably going to be late, it’s just the way it goes. Accept it, and be prepared by turning up ten minutes early for your date.
Here are a few reasons why being punctual is important on a first date:
It makes a good first impression: Arriving on time for a first date demonstrates that you are respectful of the other person's time and that you value their company. It also shows that you are responsible and dependable.
It sets the tone for the date: Being punctual sets the tone for the rest of the date. If you arrive on time, it shows that you're excited to be there and that you're looking forward to getting to know the other person. On the other hand, if you're consistently late, it can create a negative impression and make the other person feel unimportant.
It allows you to relax and enjoy the date: If you arrive on time, you'll have a chance to take a few deep breaths and relax before the date starts. This can help you feel more comfortable and confident, which is important when you're trying to make a good first impression.
It allows you to have more time together: Being punctual also allows you to have more time together on the date, which is especially important if you're planning a more elaborate or longer date.
Being comfortable
Be comfortable and confident
Being comfortable is an important aspect of a successful first date. When you're comfortable, you're more likely to be yourself and to relax, which can lead to a more enjoyable and memorable date. Here are a few reasons why being comfortable is important on a first date:
First, when you're comfortable, you're more likely to be yourself. This means that you'll be able to be more open and honest with the other person, which can help create a deeper connection. When you're not comfortable, you might be more likely to put on a facade or act differently than you normally would, which can make it harder for the other person to get to know the real you.
Being comfortable also means that you're more likely to relax and enjoy the date. If you're constantly worried about what the other person is thinking or if you're feeling self-conscious, it can make it harder to have a good time. But, if you're comfortable, you'll be able to let go of those worries and enjoy the moment.
Additionally, being comfortable also means that you'll be able to have more meaningful conversations and share more about yourself. When you're relaxed and comfortable, you'll be more likely to open up and share your thoughts and feelings with the other person. This can lead to deeper and more meaningful conversations, which can help you get to know each other better.
Lastly, being comfortable can also affect your body language and the way you present yourself. When you're comfortable, you're more likely to make eye contact, smile, and have an open posture, which can make a positive impression on the other person
Relax and be present in the moment
You’ve got the date, and we know you want to make a good impression, but try to relax and be calm.
Relaxing on a first date is important because it can help you feel more comfortable, reduce anxiety and be yourself, which can lead to a more enjoyable and memorable date.
Practice deep breathing: Taking a few deep breaths can help calm your nerves and slow down your racing thoughts. Before the date, take a few minutes to practice deep breathing exercises, such as breathing in for a count of four, holding for a count of four, and exhaling for a count of four.
Use positive self-talk: Use positive self-talk to remind yourself that everything is going to be okay. Tell yourself that you're going to have a great time, that you're interesting and that the other person is lucky to be on a date with you.
Keep things in perspective: Remember that a first date is just that, a first date. It's not a job interview or a test, it's an opportunity to get to know someone and have a good time. Even if things don't work out, it's not the end of the world.
Have a plan B: Have a plan B in case things don't go as planned. This can be a backup activity or a conversation topic that you can rely on to steer the conversation in a positive direction.
Be present: Be present in the moment and focus on what's happening in front of you. Try to let go of any past regrets or future worries and enjoy the present moment.
Feeling nervous or insecure
It's normal to feel a little nervous before a first date, but that nervous energy can be turned into excitement with the right mindset and preparation.
One of the main concerns people have before a first date is that they might not know what to say or that they'll run out of things to talk about. One way to alleviate this concern is to come up with a few conversation starters or topics in advance. Think about what you have in common with the other person and what interests you both. You can also research the location or activity you'll be doing together and have some facts or information about it ready to share.
Another common concern is that you might be judged or that the other person might not like you. To address this concern, try to shift your focus from what the other person might be thinking to what you can control: your own behavior and attitude. Be yourself, be friendly and be open-minded. Remember that the other person is probably just as nervous as you are and that they're on the date to get to know you too.
Another common concern is that you might not be dressed appropriately or that you might not look your best. To address this concern, make sure you're dressed appropriately for the location and activity you have planned and that you've paid attention to your grooming. You can also remember that confidence is key, and if you feel good about yourself and your appearance, it will show in your body language and attitude.
Lastly, another concern is that you might not be able to relax. To address this concern, try to practice deep breathing and positive self-talk, keep things in perspective and have a plan B. Remember that a first date is just that, a first date. It's not a job interview or a test, it's an opportunity to get to know
Having conversation topics in mind
The importance of conversation
Holding a conversation on a first date is important because it allows you to get to know the other person better, find common interests and build a connection. It's also a way to show that you're interested in them and that you're willing to make an effort to keep the conversation going.
When holding a conversation on a first date, remember to be a good listener. Lots of people are good at talking, but bad at having a conversation.
Ask the other person questions about themselves, their interests and their background. Show interest in what they have to say and make an effort to understand their perspective. By actively listening, you'll be able to find common ground, and you'll be able to steer the conversation towards topics that you both enjoy.
It's also important to be open and honest when holding a conversation on a first date. Share a little about yourself, your interests, and your background. Be genuine and authentic, and don't be afraid to be yourself. By being open and honest, you'll be able to build trust and create a deeper connection with the other person.
But remember to keep it light and positive. Avoid controversial or sensitive topics, and avoid complaining or making negative comments. Instead, try to keep the conversation upbeat and enjoyable. Share a few jokes, or bring up fun or interesting topics that you both enjoy. A first date isn’t really the best time to get into deep, controversial conversations. Just focus on having a good time.
Lastly, when holding a conversation on a first date, be aware of non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions. Maintain eye contact, smile, and use open body language to show that you're engaged in the conversation.
Conversation topics
Having interesting topics to talk about on a first date can help keep the conversation flowing and make the date more enjoyable. Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind, in case you get stuck during the date:
Hobbies and interests: Ask the other person about their hobbies and interests, and share your own. This can be a great way to find common ground and discover new things about each other.
Travel: Discussing travel experiences can be a great way to get to know someone. Ask about their favorite places they've been to, places they want to go, or even their dream vacation.
Work: What do they do for a living? Do they enjoy it, or are they looking for something else? Where do they work? Do they have a side hustle or something else they’re working on right now?
Movies and TV shows: Movies and TV shows can be a great conversation starter, especially if you both enjoy the same genre or have watched a similar series.
Food: Talking about food can be a great way to bond, especially if you both enjoy trying new restaurants or have similar tastes in cuisine.
Current events: Bring up interesting news or events happening in the world, this can be a great way to show that you're informed and well-read.
Personal growth: Discussing personal growth and self-improvement can be a meaningful conversation, it can also show that you are someone who is always looking to better themselves.
Humor: Share a few jokes or funny stories, laughter is a great way to break the ice and make the date more enjoyable.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to be genuine and authentic in your conversation, and to be open to whatever topics come up.
How to keep the conversation flowing
Keeping the conversation flowing on a first date is important because it allows you to get to know the other person better, find common interests, and build a connection.
First, come prepared with conversation starters or topics in mind. Think about what you have in common with the other person and what interests you both. You can also research the location or activity you'll be doing together and have some facts or information about it ready to share. This will give you a starting point for the conversation and will make it easier to keep the conversation going.
Another tip is to ask open-ended questions. Instead of asking closed-ended questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no," ask open-ended questions that encourage the other person to share more about themselves. This can be questions about their hobbies, their interests, or their background. By asking open-ended questions, you'll be able to learn more about the other person and keep the conversation flowing.
It's also important to be a good listener. Show interest in what the other person has to say and make an effort to understand their perspective. This will help you to build a connection with them and will make it easier to keep the conversation going.
Additionally, try to keep the conversation light and positive. Avoid controversial or sensitive topics, and avoid complaining or making negative comments. Instead, try to keep the conversation upbeat and enjoyable. Share a few jokes, or bring up fun or interesting topics that you both enjoy.
Lastly, be aware of non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions. Maintain eye contact, smile, and use open body language to show that you're engaged in the conversation. This will help to create a comfortable atmosphere and will make it easier to keep the conversation flowing.
First date advice for men
A first date can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be an enjoyable and memorable one.
We hope the advice above is useful and you can follow it for a successful first date. Remember to be yourself, be confident and show off the great guy that you are. And remember, they’re probably as nervous or more than you are.
By following these tips, you'll be able to make a great first impression, enjoy the date and create a lasting impression on your date.
If you liked this guide check out our article on the traits of the alpha male.
Or check out our guide to dating for introverts.
