How to Have a Great First Date

First Impressions Count

Going on a first date is like going on a job interview. You want to make a good first impression, and you hope you'll get called back. Here are some tips on how to have a great first date.
Sure, you do want to dress up more than usual and look your best. But don't overdo it. Women should go light on the makeup. Both men and women should go easy on the perfume or cologne. So many people are allergic to scents these days. So use a little scent or none at all.
Don't be too casual. Depending on where you going, you may want to wear jeans. That's OK; just make sure they're not ripped. Be sure to wear a nice shirt or blouse if you do wear jeans. Avoid t-shirts if you want to make a good impression on your date.
Being nervous is natural. Take a few deep breaths before you meet your date. Remember, he or she is probably just as nervous as you are.
If you're known for your sense of humor, use it. Laughter can help dispel the tension and break the ice.
Be on time. Don't keep the other person waiting. Not only is this rude but it's also annoying. Being late is no way to start a great first date.

Do Something Fun

The more active and fun your first date is, the more likely both of you are to stay relaxed and have a great first date. Try dancing, bowling, miniature golfing or taking a short hike or walk. If you play a sport such as tennis, you may want to meet your new date on the tennis court. Or head to a driving range and see how far you can hit a golf ball.
Avoid dinner only dates for your first one. There's nothing more awkward than meeting a stranger in a formal restaurant and struggling to keep the conversation going. Instead, do one of the activities listed above first and then go out for dinner or coffee. Doing something together beforehand gives you something to talk about afterwards. These activities also make you both more relaxed.

First Date Don'ts

Here are some things to avoid if you want to have a great first date. Never talk about your ex-boyfriend or girlfriend or ex-spouse. It's way too early for that. Focus on each other and not your past relationships.
Don't bring up politics or religion unless you're absolutely sure where the other person stands. These are always hot topics. If you offend your date, you probably won't get called back for another one.
Avoid getting too personal. The first date is not the time to talk about how your parents got divorced when you were 10 years old, how you had to have surgery on your kidney last year or how you kicked your drinking problem. Honesty is important in relationships. But revealing too many personal details too soon will only scare the other person away.
Don't be too negative. Don't complain about the weather, the slow service at the restaurant or how much you hate your boss. Keep a positive attitude.
These tips can help you learn how to have a great first date. Just be careful not to hit the tennis ball over the fence and then ask your date to retrieve it for you.