10 Tips for a Successful First Date

A first date should be an enjoyable experience, but far too many end in disaster. Follow these 10 simple tips and your first date will be all that you expect it to be.

1. Don't be late. It's rude, inconsiderate and shows a lack of respect. If you're running behind, or have to cancel the date, then call. And the earlier you call the better.

2. Dress appropriately. Be comfortable and dress casual, but don't wear sneakers, sweats, or "tacky" t-shirts. Dress sandals for women are okay, sandals of any kind for men are out. Your hair and appearance should be neat and clean. Jewellery on men should be kept to a minimum.

3. Choose the right location. Keep your first date as public as possible. Stay away from bars and nightclubs where too much activity can distract from your date, particularly if friends keep stopping by. Movies prevent good conversation. Bookstores and malls are where you meet, not where you go on a date. Restaurants and long walks are always good choices for casual conversation on a first date.

4. Pick the right time. Morning dates remind people of work and lunches are too informal. Choose early evening so that if you like each other you will have more time to do things together.

5. What you don't see can be offensive. Bad breath and offensive odors are always a turn off. Remember to take breath mints and don't smoke on the way to your date. You don't need to show up smelling like an ashtray. Refrain from overpowering your date with too much cologne or perfume.

6. Communicate. Don't let the conversation lag. Make a list of things to talk about ahead of time and be proactive. Talk, but don't take over the conversation. Let your date speak and pay attention to what they're saying. Never yawn while the other person is talking. Never!

7. Don't center the conversation on yourself. Stay away from discussing your children, pets, crazy hobbies, previous lovers and bad marriages. Any conversations about your sex life, medications, or bad experiences in your life are taboo. Keep the conversation light and fun.

8. Remember your table manners. Chew with your mouth closed and don't hold eating utensils like a toothbrush. Drinking too much, offensive language, and belching out loud are sure ways to make this date the last.

9. Never offend your date. There is no excuse, or reason, for hurting anybody's feelings.

10. If you want a second date, then don't screw up the first one!

Follow these 10 simple tips and your first date will surely turn into a second one.