First dates – a chance for connection, but also a potential breeding ground for awkward silences and nervous stumbles. You may have tried to avoid the occasion as much as possible, as it could turn into a disaster, but it happens more often than you think.
We’ll discuss here the qualities of a true gentleman during a first date and how to make a great impression in front of your date.
Decide on the location
The location of the date speaks volumes about your personality. For instance, first ask your date if they have any preference about where to go on your date. A few may enjoy an evening meal as it would be easier for people to understand each other, while others find this something dull and unnecessary and will enjoy a few drinks at the nearby bar to get to know one another better.
Having confirmed the time and place for the date and any dietary restrictions with your date by sending a quick text can also reflect your organizational and thoughtful aspects. In this way, there is also no confusion at the last moment. For instance, you go to a restaurant and find that your date follows a vegetarian diet while the menu is wholly meat-based. Being quick to text before something like that happens can save many problems at both ends.
Be on Time
Being on time demonstrates respect and sets a positive tone for the evening. It shows your date that you value their time and are genuinely interested in meeting them. Imagine waiting for someone who never shows up – not a great first impression!
There is a strong connection between being on time and being a real gentleman. This is very important to us because it is a part of our upbringing and we have become a nation of late-comers. How did this happen? First of all, it does not really matter if you are early or on time, but for us it does. We were taught to show respect and have manners, but in all honesty, being on time is a must.
If you are late, it is best to call ahead or at least give her a call, just to explain. If you are not allowed in because of late arrival, you could always wait a couple of minutes. Be honest and upfront with her. You are going to need to show respect to her, too, by being honest.
Groom well before the date
You should also spend some time grooming yourself to make a good first impression. For those who haven’t had a haircut in quite some time, you might think about scheduling an appointment with your stylist. If you have long hair, make sure to style it pleasingly.
Trim your facial hair and get rid of any unwanted hair if necessary. File your nails, shower, and put on deodorant before going to bed. Don’t go overboard with the fragrance. Even if it is your trademark perfume, keep it mild because you don’t want to overpower your date by smelling like you.
Wear nice clothes
It is also necessary to dress professionally. It goes without saying that what you wear will be determined by where you are going. Consider the fact that you will almost certainly not wear the same outfit to a restaurant and a museum.
Aim for a balance between stylish and respect. Consider the venue – a chic restaurant calls for something a bit dressier, while a casual coffee shop allows for a more relaxed look. Always prioritize cleanliness and good grooming. There’s no need for a tuxedo at a coffee shop, but looking put-together shows you care about the date and made an effort.
Bring flowers to surprise your date
Even if you think it’s cliche and out of date, that’s part of what makes it so interesting. Consider purchasing your date flowers as a way to surprise them and demonstrate that you’ve put some thought into the evening.
If you don’t have time to visit a local flower store, you may buy flower arrangements and have them delivered to your house on the day of the event. Regardless matter whether you choose a single red rose or a dozen of pink tulips, your date will undoubtedly appreciate your thoughtfulness.
Be polite to everyone
It’s important to treat others with compassion, even while being kind to your date and demonstrating your chivalry. Be kind to the waiter and refrain from bringing up the people in your party to avoid this. If you’re negative, your date will notice and you may not want to go on another date with you.
Come up with interesting topics to talk about
As you will likely be spending most of the date getting to know one another, you will want to prepare some interesting conversation starters. Some people don’t like having small talks; therefore, you should not be afraid to talk to others about the future or your deepest concerns.
One can start self-introduction and begin a conversation by asking questions to one’s date. Showing interest in their tastes will help the conversation to go on. It is advisable to show interest by nodding and smiling. On the other hand, it is strictly not allowed to talk about previous relationships or bad mouth an ex-partner at any cost.
Pay for the meal
Especially if you recommend the restaurant, you must pay the bill when you dine there. Even if your date offers to share the cost, don’t take them up on it. Tell them they’ll be able to do it again. This is a sweet approach to letting your date know you’d want to go on another date.
Don’t have an end goal
Finally, don’t make any plans for the conclusion of the date. Don’t force anything if you want to kiss if it’s not the perfect moment. Ask your date if you can do something else if you think the moment is perfect. Remind them of how much fun you had on the date, thank them for inviting you, and ask if they’d want to see each other again soon.
This book will help you act like a genuine gentleman when you go on a date by helping you choose the proper place, putting effort into your appearance, and understanding how to act and say the right things.