Let’s be real; going on a date with a potential partner for the first time can be a bit more nerve-wracking than we’d like to admit. Sure, first dates are meant to bring about feelings of bliss and butterflies. But for some, the mere thought of possible awkward silences and dead-end conversations are enough to have them in an anxiety-ridden bubble.
Luckily, we’ve had our fair share of awkward first dates, so we know a thing or two about navigating those dreaded silences. Keep reading below to find out the major do’s and don’ts of first date conversations and some great go-to topics to have in your back pocket, just in case.
Conversation Starters
Starting a conversation with your newfound love interest is easier than you think; simply be genuinely interested in getting to know them. The conversation will flow endlessly, and if you’re smart, then you’ll be able to tell a lot about the person based on their answers.
- What was it like growing up in your hometown?
- What are some of your favorite hobbies?
- What are your goals in life?
- What’s your favorite cuisine?
- Tell me one surprising fact about yourself?
- Describe your typical day?
- What are your dating goals?
- Where is the last placed you’ve traveled to?
- What’s on your bucket list?
Do’s and Don’ts
Okay, things are going great. The conversation is running smoothly, and there is an obvious mutual attraction; now what? Don’t ruin things. Just because you two are getting comfortable with each other doesn’t mean it’s time to be a complete open book; leave a few things to discuss for the next date’s conversation.
Do’s:
- Arrive on Time: It’s important to be respectful of other people’s time. Being fashionably late is cute for events, not love.
- Admit Your Nervous: It’s the truth.
- Compliment Them: This will lighten the mood.
- Use Your Manners: Please and thank you never steered you wrong.
- Smile: Let someone else enjoy those pearly whites for a while.
Don’ts:
- Mention The Ex: Odd that this is still a thing in 2020, no?
- Talk Negatively: No one wants to be around a Debbie Downer. Oh, and don’t even think about being rude to the waiter.
- Sit In Silence: Keep the conversation going. If all else fails, incorporate the 5w’s (who, what, when, where, why).
- Bring Up Sex: It’s classless, tacky, and we want no parts of it.
- Talk Money: If you’re talking about how much you make, we know to believe the complete opposite. It’s like Murphy’s law, but the dating version.
But, most of all, have fun. If it works out great, if it doesn’t, even better because that means you’re one step closer to finding the right one.