There has never been a better time to be single. After all, dating is fun, and today there are more ways to meet other singles than ever before.

Meeting someone online is exciting. Dating websites make it easy to interact with tons of other singles without having to meet them face to face until you’re ready. You can literally chat with them for months before deciding to meet for a first date.

But when it comes time for the big date, you’d better be ready. You’ll probably be nervous, but that’s fine because we are here to help take your dating game to the next level.

In this article, we offer tips for first dates that will help you find love. So keep reading for valuable Relationship insights when meeting for the first time with someone special.

1. Only Meet When You’re Both Ready

When meeting for the first time, it’s important to remember that you’ll likely both be nervous. After all, you’re meeting a stranger. It’s one thing to chat online, or even on the phone, but the prospect of meeting in person can be nerve-racking for some people.

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2. Plan to Meet at a Public Venue

Safety should always be a top priority. Sure, you’re excited to finally meet each other and get your flirt on, but we suggest that you meet for the first time in a public place. 

This could be a coffee shop or a restaurant, etc. The key is to meet someplace that allows both of you to feel totally safe. 

Consider choosing a venue that you’re both familiar with. Then if you hit it off, and things go according to plan, you can always move on to somewhere a little more private.

3. Be Punctual

Remember, this is a first date. So you want to make a good impression. That means showing up on time.

Are you the type of person that’s late? That’s a bad idea on a first date. Plus, it’s just plain rude. 

No one wants to be kept waiting. And there’s no excuse for it.

If you encounter an unexpected emergency, such as a flat tire or a family emergency that’s going to delay your arrival, be sure to give your date a heads-up so that they aren’t sitting there waiting and getting frustrated.

4. Make Them Feel Safe with You

Again, you are meeting face to face for the first time. Although you might have felt a significant connection online, meeting in person is far more intimate and real. That’s why it’s vital to establish a feeling of safety and security.

This might be the most important aspect of your first date. The physical attraction might be very apparent, but the unconscious mind will still be in fight, flight, or freeze mode. 

So be patient. Give each other the space to warm up. Not everyone is extraverted, thus it can often take time to come out of your shell. Fear is a very real thing, especially in the modern world. Once a person feels safe, it’s easy to open up and allow themselves to be vulnerable.

5. Be Polite

The simple act of being polite can often seem like a lost art. And yet a little politeness can go a long way.

Guys, act a like a gentleman. Is that really so hard? 

Open doors for her. Pull out her chair in restaurants. Open and close her car door. In other words, treat her like a lady. And treat the people around you with kindness and courtesy. This might seem like a big deal to some people, but it shouldn’t.

Believe it or not, being polite can make a huge impact on a first date. It offers a display of character, and provides a glimpse at how she can expect to be treated as the relationship continues to develop. 

6. Take Things Slow

There’s no reason to get in a hurry. Regardless of immediate physical attraction, the best advice is to take Things Slow and build your relationship one brick at a time as you get to know each other.

Most relationship experts will tell that slow and steady is the ideal approach. Butterflies and fireworks might feel great and sound exciting, and yet this is often a recipe for disaster and heartbreak.

7. Keep Conversation Positive

First dates should be a time for fun, positive conversation. There’s no need to get too serious or engage in heavy topics. Feel free to laugh, talk about things you both enjoy, and focus on simply having a great time together.

8. Show an Interest in What They Have to Say

This might sound obvious, but it’s important to really listen to what your date has to say. Be a good listener. Ask great questions that will encourage them to open up. And try not to dominate the conversation.

You might love to talk about yourself, but the key here is to learn when to talk and when to listen, and showing that you are a great listener is a very attractive quality.

9. Offer Honest Feedback About the Date

At the end of the first date, don’t be afraid to offer honest feedback. If you felt chemistry and had a great time, let your date know.

And on the flip side, if you just weren’t feeling it, go ahead and express this. Whatever you felt, your date likely had the same experience and will be relieved to hear you say it.

Being on the same page is important. So the more open and honest you can be about your feelings, the better. Never underestimate the power of good communication.

Tips for Meeting Someone Online for the First Time

Meeting someone online for a first date can be both exciting and a source of anxiety. The key is to take it slow, and to make sure that both of you feel safe. The tips contained in this article can make your next first date experience as fun and enjoyable as possible.

Be sure to check out our website for more information on finding romance.