First Date Tips

First Impressions Count: 7 First Date Tips Men Shouldn’t Ignore

Going on a date can be a stressful experience for some men, and the thought of it can make you very nervous as the day approaches. If you’re used to the dating scene, you may feel that you have mastered your approach, but there are probably still a few things you can learn. If you haven’t been on a date for some time, you may have forgotten how to prepare for and behave the first time you meet a potential new partner.

The growth of online dating has changed the way most people look for relationships, but the same rules apply when you meet someone for the first time. The following seven tips will help you make the best impression on a first date.

  • Show off your best side by being well-groomed.

Some ladies claim to like the rugged look, but you can kill the first impression on a date if you don’t arrive well-groomed. If you’re new to the dating scene, this may be the perfect opportunity to get a new hairstyle and freshen up your look. There are hundreds of great male grooming products available, and there’s no excuse not to look and smell great. Many men are reluctant to use moisturisers and skin products, but they can smooth wrinkles and take years off you. Trim your nails and make sure your hands are clean and looking their best.

Many ladies don’t like facial hair, so consider shaving off a beard if that’s your everyday look. Want to avoid razor cuts and bumps? Don’t use a razor, instead get the best electric shaver on the market to give you a clean shave. Apply moisturiser after shaving to keep your face smooth and fresh.

  • Smell great by applying a subtle cologne.

As well as looking great for your date, it’s important to smell great. Visit a local store and test some different cologne. Most men’s cologne is based on a strong note of musk, citrus or sandalwood, and it’s important to choose one which you’re comfortable wearing. Some cologne works better for the younger man, and floral notes don’t generally suit mature men. Choose a subtle scent that won’t overpower your date, and don’t smother yourself in it. A couple of drops or a quick spray should be enough.

  • Brush your teeth.

Stained teeth and bad breath can kill your chances of securing a second date. Always brush your teeth before a date, and use a good quality mouthwash for extra freshness. If your teeth are stained, a teeth whitening toothpaste is a quick and easy way to get some of the sparkles back into your smile. If you’re a smoker, it may be harder to deal with stains on your teeth. Chewing gum as you make your way to meet your date is a quick way of freshening your mouth in preparation.

  • Iron your clothes.

Turning up looking like you’ve just got out of bed isn’t the right way to make a good first impression. Even if you’re wearing casual clothes for an informal date, make sure everything is ironed and looking good. If you give the impression you can’t look after yourself, some ladies may assume you want a mother figure. Buying a new shirt for a date can boost your confidence and make you feel good, but even this should be washed and ironed before you wear it.

  • Wear shoes to match your outfit.

Many people judge a man by the shoes he wears, and this is even more of a factor when it comes to dating. Don’t spoil the effect of a smart shirt and nicely ironed jeans by turning up wearing tennis shoes. Shoes should be cleaned and polished and must be appropriate to the rest of your outfit. A fresh pair of socks can also help to make the right first impression.

  • Smile, smile, smile!

Smiling can make a huge difference in the impact and impression you make on someone when you first meet them. A smile shows that you are a warm and friendly person and that you are pleased to see the person you’re meeting. Remember that your date will probably be feeling as nervous as you are on the date, and smiling shows that you are pleased to be with the lady and will help her to relax. Conversation on a first date is usually light and chatty, and smiling helps to keep things flowing along.

  • Don’t drink too much.

Depending on the venue and time of day you choose for your date, drinking alcohol may be a part of it. Offer your date a glass of wine or other drinks if you’re eating, but don’t start drinking alcohol unless she chooses to. First dates should ever be about pretending you’re someone you aren’t and deceiving someone, but you should always aim to show your best side. If things go well, there will be plenty of opportunities to share a cocktail or glass of wine on a future date. If you drink too much, you may end up opening up too much and saying things that you shouldn’t.

If you want to take away the risk of drinking too much, arrange your date at a museum or other location where alcohol isn’t available. Spending time at a museum or art gallery may not be everyone’s first choice for a date, but it’s a great place to get to know someone away from everyday distractions.

If you follow these seven tips, you’ll make a great first impression and create the atmosphere for an enjoyable date. Be yourself and let the lady get to know you. Remember to ask questions and show interest in your date, but don’t probe too deeply into things she may not wish to share. If you sense something is making her uncomfortable, change the subject, and talk about something else. Don’t share too much about yourself on a first date, as a sense of mystery will leave your date wanting to meet again and find out more about you.