Dating is hard enough as it is without the many rules that people add to it these days. Nowadays, just the thought of going out with someone strikes fear into people’s hearts, as they simply don’t know what to do or how to behave. Well, we’re here to help you. With the following tips for proper date etiquette, you’ll find that you’ll get a new lease on life as far as dating is concerned. These are not magic tips; however, they are just some ways to help you get a smooth dating experience, so don’t end up treating them as gospel.
Clear Organisation
There is nothing more attractive than taking the lead and being clear on the outline of a date. Organization is extremely attractive, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. If you are the one who sets the date, then make sure that you tell your date clearly what you have planned and, importantly, when and where to meet. This will give them room to politely back out of certain activities that they may not be comfortable with, allowing you to restrategize in time. You don’t want to take your date to a seafood restaurant only for them to tell you that they are allergic to fish, do you? So when planning and communicating the plan, keep it convenient, easy, and relaxed, rather than coming across as stressed or controlling. That will serve you much better.
What To Do?
There are many types of dates with many objectives, so don’t get lost in yours. Remember that the point of a date is to get to know each other, so opt for somewhere with a good and relaxing atmosphere. That way, you and your date can discuss various things in peace and have the happiest of times. Also, when you’re with your date, avoid starchy formality or overpriced pretense; equally, a loud concert or buzzing cocktail bar leaves little room for convivial chat. That is not what you want on a date.
First impressions
We know you have heard this many, many times, but you need to hear it one more time. When it comes to dates, first impressions matter, and first impressions last. Make a conscious effort to look the best that you can, just so you can charm your date a little bit more. Be sure to dress for the occasion without looking like you have overdone it, just so you can give it an aura of simplicity. Most important, however, is to turn up on time; being late shows how little regard and respect you have for the other person and their time. We don’t want the date to start on a negative note.
Additional Focus
Everyone wants to feel like the center of one’s universe mid-date. Nobody wants to be clamoring to get your attention at a time when they are supposed to be the center of attention. So, whether it’s drinks, dinner, a walk, or something else, put your phone away; never leave it on the table, in your hand, or check mid-conversation. That can be interpreted as extremely rude. Instead, engage them and always make your date feel like the conversation is so good it could keep going on for hours.
Boundaries
Boundaries are extremely important, and they need to be observed both physically and in conversation. Depending on how long you’ve known your date and how comfortable you are with them, you are required to choose your topics carefully so that you don't offend anyone. A second or third date is not the time to ask someone to spill secrets, relive your recent break-up, or decide how many children you might have together. Take it slowly and keep the conversation light, fun, and balanced. Don’t trigger people with strong political opinions, or ask them how much they have saved up. We’re sure you can agree that these are not fun questions that you might want someone to ask you. Being respectful and bringing a smile to his or her face is actually what will make them want to see you more.
Good manners
They say that manners make a man, and that is all very true, even for women. There is nothing more disappointing than sitting across from someone who has the worst table manners. It can even reach the point of being repulsive. Always remember that as you’re eating, your table manners are on display and possibly being judged. That’s not to say be uncomfortable, but instead put on a show. When ordering, order food you know you like and can eat easily. Don’t try to impress with foreign dishes that you don’t understand because, honestly, you’ll end up embarrassing yourself. Also, no matter how good your food is, try to eat at a steady pace and try to finish at roughly the same time as your date. That way, you can be in sync.
Money Issues
This part of dates always trips up a lot of people and creates unwanted hostility, even after people have a good date. The question of who pays for dates has plagued people since time immemorial, and we have the answer. As a general rule, if you think you will meet again, then one of you should pick up the tab. Traditional attitudes toward chivalry would say that would be the man on a mixed-gender date; modern times suggest whoever did the asking should pay. If, however, it is clear that there is no chemistry or compatibility, it might be best to ‘go Dutch’ and call it quits. After all, things won’t be moving forward.