Make the best first impression

Apr 19, 2011 1:46 PM by Jessica Padykula

Posted in Love & Sex / Single Girls' Guide / Dating Dos & Don'ts

Wow Him On
The First Date

As the age-old saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a great first impression. Nowhere does this statement hold more weight than in dating. The results of a recent Match.com survey reveals that men and women (31 percent) agree: 15 minutes into the date is long enough to tell if there is chemistry. Luckily, only 12 percent of singles would actually call it a night and leave within the first 30 minutes of the date if they feel things aren’t going as planned. Check out our tips for making the best first-date impression.

Woman on first date

Be on time.

Being even a few minutes late can send a message that you're not taking the date seriously. Keep an eye on the time, and if for some reason you get behind schedule, let your date know. Just a simple text message will suffice, and if you're only going to be a few minutes late, you don't have to go into why. In fact, it's better he doesn't get the full story about your having to chase your dog out of the neighbor's yard or your dropping an entire carton of eggs on the floor just as you were about to leave.

Cursive number 2

Dress for success.

Put some effort into your appearance. This doesn't just mean finding a great outfit that looks amazing on you; it also means not going overboard. Look good, but comfortable and effortlessly gorgeous. Wear something you love and that you know looks good on you rather than trying to put together an outfit you've never worn or buying something new for the occasion. The key is to look good without having to try too hard.

Smile & relax.

If you're nervous, you might forget to smile, or worse, you'll laugh like a hyena at everything he says. Neither of these are good options and can make you seem awkward (and a little crazy, if go the hyena route). Being as relaxed as possible will help you project an air of confidence, which will boost your chances of making a good first impression. The more relaxed you are, the less you'll fidget (with your clothes, your hair, your phone) -- something else that makes you seem nervous or uncomfortable.

Listen & ask questions.

Talking about yourself is a big part of a first date, but don't talk so much that he can't get a word in edgewise. Listen to what he's saying, and ask intelligent questions that show you've been paying attention. This helps form a connection between you. On the flip side, don't let him do all the talking, or he won't be able to form much of an opinion about you.

Act natural.

This is a not a job interview, so you don't need to list your awards, accomplishments and skills as if you were hoping to get the corner office. Let the conversation flow naturally, and don't feel the need to over-sell yourself. He asked you out (or agreed to a date), so he obviously likes you. Remember that, and be yourself.