5 Tips for How to Make a Good Impression on a First Date

Making a good impression on a first date can be your ticket to a second date.  A person involved in the dating scene may go on a number of casual dates just to determine whether or not they are even interested in pursuing a relationship with the other person.  Years ago, a first date was considered the first step in a long term relationship and a first date didn't happen until the two parties got to know each other pretty well but that idea is becoming old fashioned and more and more singles are using first dates as an opportunity to get to know the other person.  Many people rationalize that a first date isn't a huge investment of time so they use the first date as the determining factor of whether or not they want to become involved in a relationship.  This theory places a great deal of emphasis on the first date because many singles will consider a bad first date as a sign that a relationship will not work so it is extremely important to make a good impression on a first date.

The first tip for making a good impression on a first date is actually something that you do before the date even starts.  Arrange a phone conversation with the other person to plan out the date together.  This will help to make a good impression because it shows that you are interested in their opinions and that you want to ensure that the date will be enjoyable for both of you.  It also will eliminate the possibility of arrange a day or evening filled with activities that your date does not enjoy.  Furthermore you and your date are far more likely to have a good time, if you participate in an activity that you both enjoy during the first date.

Punctuality is also critical to making a good impression on a first date.  You and your partner will probably both be very excited about the date and keeping your date waiting by being late can put a damper on the date before it even starts.  If you are late to pick up your partner they may be upset that you were inconsiderate and did not consider their feelings and although they may not say anything outright about your tardiness, their attitude during the date is likely to reflect their unhappiness.

Surprising your date with a small gift is another way to make a good first impression on a first date.  You may wish to ask subtle questions in your pre-date phone conversation to find out your date's favorite flower or candy and surprise them with a gift that you know they will like.  The gift does not have to be extravagant to impress your date; they will simply be impressed by your thoughtfulness.  Giving an extravagant gift may actually have the converse affect of your date being unimpressed and thinking that you are trying to buy their affections. 

Relaxing on your first date is another way to make a good impression.  If you are too rigid or uptight, you will not be able to let your personality shine through.  Not only will being relaxed on your first date impress your date but it will also help you to enjoy the date.  If you are unable to relax you will probably be too tense to enjoy yourself.  Your date will appreciate your honesty and will be impressed that you have the confidence to simply relax and be yourself on a first date. 

Finally, asking your date questions about them is a great way to make a good impression on a first date.  Doing this lets them know that you are interested in learning more about them and that you care about their thoughts and opinions.  There are some people who don't enjoy talking about themselves but the majority of people relish the opportunity to talk about themselves. 

A first date is your opportunity to shine so it is important to make a good impression on your date.  A good impression on your first date will most likely lead to a second date.  A few tips for making a good first impression include seeking your dates input when planning the date, being punctual, giving your date a small gift, relaxing and asking your date questions about themselves.  Following these tips will help you to have a successful first date and secure a second date.