You finally found the courage to ask her on a date. Luckily, she said yes. Whether you’re going out to dinner or just meeting at a bar, here are some tips to make sure that she won’t describe this night as the worst date of her life.
(1) Don’t talk about ex-girlfriends.
Even if you just got out of a relationship and this is your first date since your ex broke up with you, don’t talk about it on a first date. Don’t compare anything that she does to what your ex used to do. Chances are that she doesn’t want to hear about how “Lily used to love this place” or “Kate was a great skier too.” If she asks about past relationships, that’s different, but even then keep it short and sweet. If this date goes well, there will be plenty of time to talk about your romantic history.
(2) Do try to find common ground to talk about.
How did you two meet? Mutual friends? In class? At a party? Find out what you have in common and talk about that. It is a good icebreaker.
(3) Don’t forget to ask her about herself.
It’s tempting to just talk about yourself - after all, you know that subject best. Don’t forget that she has a story to tell too. Find out some stuff about her. If you already know all the small talk stuff ("Where did you grow up?” “So, what’s your major?"), use that as a way to propel conversation. ("You grew up in Texas, right? What was that like? I’ve only been to DFW.” “Why did you choose biology as your major?")
Just like talking about yourself is easy for you, she will probably be put at ease by talking about the subject she knows best: herself. Also, letting her talk is to your advantage because, as Ron White says, you can’t fix stupid.
(4) Do tell her she looks nice.
It’s nice to hear, and you are basically guaranteed a smile from your date.
(5) Do at least offer to pay.
It may seem a little old-fashioned, but it’s a nice gesture. You don’t have to make a big show of it. A simple, “I got it” will suffice. It’s a date, not dinner with a friend or your sister. If she wants to split it, fine. At least you offered. (On that note, try to go someplace that you can afford.)
Getting through a first date unscathed isn’t rocket science. Follow these tips and you will probably avoid some awkward moments. If getting her to talk is like puling teeth and the dinner feels like it will never end (in a bad way), at least you tried and there’s no rule that you have to repeat the experience.
More College News
Study shows increased use of Facebook amongst students may lead to lower grades
