How to Greet Your First Date

Greeting your first date generally comes down to two options - the handshake or the hug. Depending on what conversations took place prior to the first meeting will dictate whether the date may start off with one or the other.

If you developed a rapport prior to the first date, the hug can develop some positive energy to propel the date forward. On the other hand, if you've only had a short exchange of emails or had a brief conversation prior to the initial meeting, the rapport may not have had the chance. The hug, in this instance, seems a little inappropriate, and you feel demoted to the handshake.

Whenever possible, we want to start things off with a hug, not a handshake.

If you're meeting people online, go a few rounds of emails before the first phone call. Build a comfort level through the email exchange. The more information learned through writing back and forth makes the initial call easier, which builds a rapport.

If you've met someone through conventional means, have a list of topics to discuss in the initial phone call. Hopefully, the first conversation goes well, and you both converse about some things potentially in common. The build up will have both of you excited for the first date.

Have a good attitude. This is critical because nothing can be achieved without a good attitude, and the same goes for the first date. If you show some enthusiasm, this in turn spawns positive energy. Giving a hug at the start of the date shows enthusiasm.

Sometimes, the handshake is inevitable. There just isn't the chance to have a meaningful exchange of emails or a lengthy telephone conversation prior to the first meeting. If the handshake must be done, extend your arm out to shake hands like you normally would, then reach out with the opposite arm and place your hand on top of the handshake. This makes the handshake a little more personal, rather than the old gentlemen's handshake.

The initial greet is an important part of the date - often underestimated. Build a rapport prior to the first meeting as much as possible and show enthusiasm by giving a hug. Hopefully, the second date will be just around the corner.