First Date Checklist

First dates sometimes offer a range of
emotion from thrilling to terrifying! Here are some tips that will
help things go smoothly:

#1: Be on time! Timeliness is
expected, but being late (or too early) makes a bad impression. If
you can’t help being a little late, call before the expected arrival
time.

#2: (for men) Do a “personal check” before the
date – are your fingernails clean, hair neat, clothes ironed, shoes
polished, and any odors under control (including breath)? Women look
at these things and are aware if they aren’t in check. You should be
too!

#3: (for women) Don’t overdo the make-up or
perfume! In most cases, a little goes a long way.

#4:
Don’t go to the movies, the theatre, or a concert on your first date
– you want to be able to talk and get to know this
person.

#5: Don’t “pull out all the stops” – keep it
simple. The first date is more of an interview than an
event.

#6: (for men) Listen! Don’t spend all your time
talking about things you already know. Your goal here is to find out
about your date.

#7: Have something to talk about –
read a newspaper or magazine of general interest. Try to find common
things you both share.

#8: Keep an open mind and don’t
argue. You don’t have to agree with everything your date says, but
where you differ, offer an alternative idea rather than discounting
it, and if you don’t know something ask!

#9: Remind yourself that your not nervous, you’re just excited.
Calm confidence is very appealing!

#10: Have fun! That’s the idea of the first date.