First dates can definitely be nerve-wracking. Sure, it’s fun to get dressed up and try your best to impress, but anyone knows that first dates bring a lot of pressure. Will they call you again? What will you guys talk about? Who pays the bill? It’s understandable to be nervous, but these tips will guarantee you a second date.

#1 Chat Before Dating

When you meet someone you click with, it’s hard not to immediately plan an outing with them. However, you’ll both have an easier time if you get to know each other first. Chat with them online, text, or call before scheduling anything. You’ll get all of those silly little icebreaker questions out of the way and the first date can be about digging a little deeper. Plus, you’ll also be able to ask questions about things you learned in previous conversations.

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#2 Arrive on Time

The first thing you can do to make a good impression is to arrive on time. If anything, you should look into arriving a bit earlier than your date. The extra time allows you to score a table at a restaurant, get in line, and generally rid of any hiccups that may occur. Not to mention, being on time shows your date that you’re committed to meeting them and put them as a priority in your schedule.

Wondering which first date locations are best? Well, a study conducted by Plenty of Fish actually discovered that going out to dinner or drinks are the most popular among now-married couples. The reason these places are so successful is that it makes your conversation the focal point of the date. This is another reason why it’s a good idea to chat beforehand.

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#3 Take an Interest

It should go without saying that you need to be present on a first date. This means that you shouldn’t be on your phone or spacing out when they’re in the middle of a story. You should also ask follow-up questions to their stories; it shows you’ve been listening and actually care about what they’re saying. However, be mindful of your conversation; you don’t want them to think that they’re being interviewed. Let things flow naturally before you whip out a laundry list of questions.

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#4 Consider Holding Off the Kiss

It’s an age-old question that’s troubled us for years: should we kiss on the first date? This may sound a bit taboo, but a lot of couples actually didn’t. According to a 2018 study , only 53% believed that a kiss should take place on the first date. 33% thought it was appropriate to wait until the second or third. Additionally, more men thought a first-date kiss was acceptable over women (60% of men, 48% of women). Expert opinions clash on the topic, so it should ultimately be about your personal connection. But don’t think your date is ruined if you put it off.

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#5 Don’t Play Games

So, the date went well! If that’s the case, don’t play around with their emotions. This isn’t a sitcom where waiting three days to text them makes their heart grow fonder. Now that you’ve met in person, it’s not the time to lead them on. If you’re both interested, keep the flame going and schedule a second date when you’re available.

Get to know your date before you go out and engage with them more when you meet up in person. Don’t think too hard about it lest you psych yourself out. Let things happen naturally and you may both be surprised how easily a second date comes.

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