Blind dates can be nerve-wracking. You have probably read some horrible blind dates on the web or, worse, on TV. But having a blind date doe...
Blind dates can be nerve-wracking. You have probably read some horrible blind dates on the web or, worse, on TV. But having a blind date doesn't have to be that bad. It is supposed to
be an exciting way to meet new people to hang out with, or even end up on a relationship with. So don't feel frustrated, as here are some useful tips that you need for that successful blind date:
Prepare yourself - First impressions always last, and it's really important to create that good impression on your blind date. How your date sees you within just minutes of meeting you sets the stage for the entire date.
That is why you should first give importance to your appearance and grooming. Remember, you only have one chance at that first impression, so make a good one. Select clothing that is appropriate for your date. Select a casual get-up for a lunch date or going to the movies; or put on something more dressy when planning for a nice dinner date.
Also, do not wear clothes that are too revealing, strange, or over the top.Get a new haircut or hairstyle, which is most advisable a day before the date. For women, it is best to have your hair styled at the salon several hours before meeting your blind date. Wear an ample amount of perfume or cologne. Do not overdo it though. Don't forget to shine your shoes and iron your clothes if needed. Most important, arrive early. Showing up on your date late can affect your date's impression on you.
Keep yourself safe - Even if blind date can be fun, you should never let your guard down.
Consider a public place for your date venue like a restaurant or a park. In that way, you would feel more relaxed in getting along with your blind date. Make sure that a friend knows where you will be and at what time. Also, tell your friend the name of your date. Carry a cell phone with you at all times. Use it to call emergency when needed.
Keep your first date short- A simple short date is a great way to meet someone on a blind date, especially if you are meeting someone for the first time. If you do not feel the connection or chemistry with your date, you can simply make an exit right after. However, if you are interested, you can stick around some more or arrange to meet up again in the future. Some recommended options for a short date include meeting up for coffee, a drink date in the evening, or a lunch date during the weekday.
Keep your schedule flexible- Make sure that your first blind date would not coincide with other concerns such as work, especially if you are planning to make your date longer. Flex
your schedule with additional activities with your partner such as going to the movies, dancing at the club, or joining a group activity such as yoga classes.
Be polite
Whether the date goes well or bad, being polite with your date creates a mark on your personality. Greet your date with a handshake upon meeting with him or her. Starting it off with a kiss may send the wrong message. Smile, even if you are nervous. Be a gentleman. Open doors, hang up her coat, pull out her chair. Even today when chivalry is a dying trait among men, it is best to provide respect to your date.
Women should always be thankful. Be grateful after he opens the door for you, thank him after he pull out a chair for you. Be polite even when you are about to leave the date if you feel like it isn't going well. You could tell your date that, for instance, you have to leave early because you need to work right after. However, if your date seems to be working, just “scrap” the plan and stay on with your date.
Be yourself
One of the biggest mistakes that people make on a blind date is that they try to be someone that they aren't. Just be honest and be yourself. Answer questions honestly and talk about yourself without exaggerating facts. Remember that your date wants to know who you are, not who your date wants you to be.
Talk and listen- Conversation is extremely important in making your blind date a success.
Ask about your date's career, family, even about his or her friends. Remember to keep the topics light, aiming at getting to know more about your date. Also, let your date talk and you should listen. Show an interest to what he or she is saying. Don't forget to talk back and create a conversation, or else it would become a long and boring date.
Mind your language- First impressions do not only focus on your appearance, but also on the way you communicate both verbal and non-verbal. Your date may scrutinize your tone of voice, the words that you use, and even how your body reacts. As we said before, just be yourself. Do not be to stiff, instead you should relax and react appropriately. Also, don't forget to keep your eyes on your date, not on others around you. Another good body language is to face your belly button towards your date, an indication that you are interested to him or her.
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