Feeling nervous about a first date? Don't worry, you're not alone.
First dates can be intimidating, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can make a great impression and start building a connection with your date.
As a man, you have the power to shape the outcome of the date and make it a memorable experience.
In this article, we'll provide you with practical advice on how to make the most of your first date.
From dressing to impress, to being a good listener, and following up after the date, we'll cover all the important aspects of a successful first date.
So, take a deep breath, and read on for some expert tips to help you have a great time and make a lasting impression on your date. If you’re looking for information on what should a guy do on a first date, we’ve got the answers.
Table of Contents
Preparing for the date
Dress to impress
Dressing to impress on a first date is an important step in making a good impression. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when getting ready:
Dress appropriately: Consider the activity you have planned and dress accordingly. For example, if you're going to a nice restaurant, dress in nice casual attire. If you're going hiking, dress in comfortable, appropriate clothing.
Be well-groomed: Make sure your hair is styled, your face is clean-shaven, and your nails are clean. This shows that you put effort into your appearance.
Wear something that makes you feel confident: Choose an outfit that makes you feel good about yourself and that you feel comfortable wearing. Confidence is attractive, and it will show in your attitude and demeanor.
Additionally, it's important to take into account the personal style of the person you're going on a date with. Try to match the dress code or at least complement it.
In general, the key is to look your best and to be presentable, but also to be comfortable in what you're wearing so you can focus on the date instead of worrying about if your clothing is appropriate or uncomfortable.
Be punctual
Being punctual on a first date is an important aspect of showing respect and consideration for your date's time.
We’ve said it before, but your date is probably going to be late. It just happens, but that doesn’t mean you can take it easy. Make sure you get there ten minutes early, just in case.
It's a simple yet powerful way to make a good first impression and set the tone for the rest of the date. Being on time shows that you value your date's time and that you're excited to meet them. It also gives you a chance to settle in and relax before the date begins.
To make sure you're punctual, it's important to plan ahead. Make sure you know the details of the date, including the time and location, so you can plan your route and allow enough time to get there.
You should also factor in extra time for traffic, parking, or other unexpected delays. If you're running late, it's important to communicate with your date as soon as possible. Send a text or call to let them know you're on your way and give an estimated time of arrival.
Keep in mind that being punctual doesn't mean you have to be super early, just don't be too late. Being too early may make your date feel uncomfortable or rushed. The key is to arrive on time, or even a little early, to show that you respect your date's time and that you're excited to meet them.
Plan a fun, interesting activity
Near the top of our first date advice for men is planning a fun, interesting activity. This can be a great way to break the ice, get to know each other, and create a memorable experience. Here are a few tips to help you plan the perfect activity:
Consider your date's interests: Think about what your date might enjoy and try to plan an activity that aligns with those interests. If you're not sure, ask them or consider things they've mentioned in conversation.
Choose something interactive: Activities that involve participation and engagement, like a concert, a cooking class, a game night, a comedy show, or a sporting event, can be a great way to break the ice and get to know each other.
Opt for something unique and memorable: Instead of going for a traditional dinner and a movie, try something more unique and memorable, like a hot air balloon ride, a museum visit, a wine tasting or a visit to an amusement park.
It's also important to consider the setting and atmosphere of the activity. Make sure the location you pick is comfortable, easy to get to, and suitable for the activity you have planned.
Keep in mind that the activity is not the most important part, the most important part is to have a good time and to have fun with your date. The activity should serve as a way to get to know each other better and to have an enjoyable time.
Finally, it's important to be flexible and open to change. If the activity doesn't go as planned, or if you and your date decide on something different, be willing to adapt and go with the flow.
On the date
Be a good listener
Being a good listener on a first date is crucial to making a positive impression and building a connection with your date. Listening actively not only shows that you are interested in what they have to say, but it also helps you understand their perspective and get to know them better.
When your date is speaking, give them your full attention. Avoid interrupting or steering the conversation back to yourself. Show that you are interested in what they have to say by nodding, making eye contact, and asking follow-up questions.
When you are listening to your date, try to understand the underlying meaning of what they are saying. Instead of just focusing on the words they are using, pay attention to their tone, body language, and facial expressions. This will help you understand how they feel and what they're trying to communicate.
It's also important to remember that listening is not just about hearing the words, it's also about acknowledging and validating your date's feelings and experiences. If your date shares something personal or sensitive, show empathy and understanding, and avoid being judgmental or dismissive.
Being a good listener also means being able to give and receive constructive feedback, so if your date makes a suggestion or shares a concern, listen attentively and respond thoughtfully.
Be respectful and polite
Being respectful and polite on a first date is an important aspect of making a positive impression and building a connection with your date. Here are a few tips to help you show respect and politeness:
Be courteous: Use good manners, such as opening doors, pulling out chairs, and saying please and thank you. These small acts of kindness can go a long way in making your date feel valued and respected.
Show consideration: Be mindful of your date's feelings and needs. If they seem uncomfortable or need a break, be willing to adjust your plans or behavior accordingly.
Avoid negative topics: Stick to safe, neutral topics of conversation. Avoid bringing up controversial or sensitive topics, such as politics or past relationships.
Be a good host: If you're the one who planned the date, make sure your date is comfortable and that they have everything they need.
It's also important to be aware of your own behavior and the way you interact with your date. Avoid making assumptions or being judgmental, and try to be open-minded and understanding.
In addition, be respectful of boundaries and try to respect them, such as asking for permission before touching or invading personal space.
Respect and politeness go beyond manners, it also means being sensitive to the feelings and needs of your date, and making them feel comfortable and valued throughout the date.
By being respectful and polite, you can create a positive and pleasant atmosphere for the date, and make a lasting impression on your date.
Avoid controversial topics
Avoiding controversial topics on a first date is a good way to keep the conversation light and neutral, and to avoid any potential conflicts or awkward moments. However, it's important to remember that this doesn't mean avoiding any kind of deep or meaningful conversation.
When it comes to avoiding controversial topics, it's important to stick to safe topics that are unlikely to cause conflict or discomfort. This can include hobbies, travel, current events, and pop culture, as these are generally easy to talk about and can be a great way to get to know each other better.
It's also important to avoid sensitive topics such as religion, politics, and past relationships, as these can be divisive and may cause your date to feel uncomfortable or defensive. Remember that the point of a first date is to get to know each other, so it's best to avoid any topics that might create tension or conflict.
When it comes to sensitive topics, it's important to respect boundaries and if your date indicates that they don't want to talk about a certain topic or if they seem uncomfortable, it's best to change the subject.
Additionally, it's important to be mindful of the tone of the conversation. Even if you're talking about a neutral topic, the tone of the conversation can make a big difference. Avoid sarcasm, judgment, or criticism and try to keep the conversation light and positive.
Finishing the date
Offering to pay
Offering to pay on a date can be a polite and respectful gesture, and it can show that the man is interested in being a gentleman and taking care of his date. Here are a few reasons why it's good for the man to offer to pay on a date:
It shows that the man is willing to invest in the date: By offering to pay, the man is showing that he is willing to invest in the date and that he values the time he is spending with his date.
It can make the date feel special: For many people, being treated to a nice meal or activity can make them feel special and appreciated.
It can set a positive tone for the relationship: If the date goes well, and the man offers to pay, it can set a positive tone for any future relationship and show that the man is interested in taking care of his partner.
Times have changed and today's society is more about equality, but even now you can make a great impression if you take control and get your wallet out. Show them that you’re willing to look after them. They might offer to split the bill, and if they do then that’s a good sign. But we recommend insisting on paying if this happens. They can pick up the next bill if it gets to a second date.
In short, offering to pay on a date can be a polite and respectful gesture that can make the date feel special and set a positive tone for any potential relationship.
Be a gentleman
Being a gentleman on a date is about showing respect and consideration for your date, and making them feel comfortable and valued. This includes small gestures such as opening doors, pulling out chairs, and making sure they have everything they need. It also includes paying attention to their needs and being responsive to them, for example, if they're cold and you notice, offer them your jacket.
Another important aspect of being a gentleman is being attentive and present during the date. This means putting your phone away and giving your date your full attention. It also means being a good listener and showing genuine interest in what they have to say.
Being a gentleman also means showing respect and consideration at the end of the date. This can include walking your date to their car or home, and making sure they are safe. It also includes saying thank you, and following up with a text or call the next day to let them know you had a good time and would like to see them again.
Additionally, being a gentleman means being respectful of boundaries and consent. This means asking for permission before touching or invading personal space, and being sensitive to any cues that your date may be giving you indicating they are uncomfortable.
In summary, being a gentleman is about showing respect and consideration for your date throughout the date. It's about being attentive, responsive, and respectful, and making your date feel comfortable and valued.
Follow up
Following up after a first date is an important step in building a connection with your date and potentially taking the relationship to the next level. Here are a few tips to help you follow up effectively:
Timing is key: The timing of your follow-up is important. Ideally, you should send a text or call the next day to let your date know you had a good time and would like to see them again. Waiting too long can make it seem like you're not interested, while following up too quickly can be overwhelming.
Keep it short and sweet: Your follow-up message should be brief and to the point. Express your appreciation for the date and let them know you had a good time.
Make plans for a second date: If the date went well and you're interested in seeing your date again, make plans for a second date. Suggest a specific day and time, and be open to their suggestions as well.
A follow-up doesn't always have to be in a written form, sometimes a phone call is more effective and personal.
What should a guy do on a first date
Overall, a first date can be a great opportunity to make a good impression and start building a connection with someone new.
By preparing ahead of time, being punctual, planning a fun and interesting activity, being a good listener, respectful and polite, and avoiding controversial topics, men can set the stage for a successful first date.
Additionally, even in today’s society it's important to be a gentleman, and to follow up after the date, in a respectful and appropriate way.
Finally, it's important to remember that the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the date. The goal is to have a good time with the other person and to see if there's a potential for a future relationship. Don’t worry about things too much, focus on showing off your personality and having a good time. Enjoy the experience.
If you liked this guide check out our article on how to be more attractive to women.
We’ve also put together a list of traits of alpha males in relationships.
