Basic first date etiquette rules everyone should follow.

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I do not have to tell you that dating is the most complicated it has ever been. Today all of us know that truly connecting with someone and seeing consistently enough to build an exclusive relationship is tougher than overcooked meat. So, that is where dating rules come in. Yes, all of us have our own set of dating rules, cherry-picked to our wants and needs. They push you towards a healthy relationship and pull you away from the toxic ones to save your time, energy, and you from a lot of conflicting emotions. Try not to blow off your own dating rules because you found someone else’s dating rules a bit challenging. Also, when it comes to first date etiquette, we always try to take ourselves up a notch. Not because we have to prove anything, but because first dates are always about putting your best self out there. I am saying this because this person-even if you have chatted with them for weeks through an online dating app-is still ultimately a stranger. So, if you are struggling to figure out your own dating rules, I might be of great help. Although a bit old-fashioned for your first date, I will always tell you to be polite, to dress well, to smell good, and cross your legs while sitting. There is always so much more than that superannuated nonsense.

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DATING ETIQUETTES:

1.) Make an effort to reach on time:

             That is true! Considering how many people do not consider punctuality as a virtue, ‘reaching on time’ is one of the basic dating etiquettes to follow. And no, it is not only for your first date but for all the dates that you should follow. You should never keep your date waiting. That is not fun at all. Also, if you are running more than 10 minutes late, make sure to keep them posted. After all, first impressions do count!

2.) Put your phone away:

Technology has its pros and cons. And dating and relationship is a tricky thing. Yes, you might be a busy person who gets many calls and WhatsApp messages, but you should avoid using your phone. On your first date, your time and attention should be reserved only for the person sitting right in front of you. To avoid any distractions, make sure that you keep your phone in your pocket or your bag. In case of an emergency, be polite to excuse yourself with the other person’s permission and keep the call crisp.

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3.) Just be yourself :

Be ‘yourself‘ at all times, and it matters a lot in any dating setup. It is crucial if you meet online first because, on dating apps, people often pretend to be what they are not. Hence, this thing makes for crucial online dating etiquette. So, instead of putting on a show to make sure that your date likes you, just focus on presenting your true self. Just go with your gut feeling and do what feels right. Remember to seek and give consent; if you do plan to take things ahead on a first date.

4.) Simply acknowledging that awkwardness is just a part of the show:

First dates can be awkward. But when you find yourself in the middle of silence, simply saying something like, “Hey, this is so awkward. I am sure there will be even more awkward silences to come”, is the wisest thing to do. Always address the elephant in the room. It creates a bond.

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5.) Avoid controlling the conversations you guys have:

As the conversation starts to flow, you guys must hear each other out. It is a conversation, and this date is not about only you. So, talk about your hobbies, your passion, the books you love reading, the movies you like to watch, and so on, just keep the flow going. 

6.) Also, try and avoid topics around promises, children, and marriage:

The first date is more exploratory than pin the person down. It is also your first chance to know the person well. So avoid controlling the conversation. You can also ask questions to know them better- and to include them in the conversation. A proper dating etiquette makes your date comfortable so that they can talk without inhibitions too.

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7.) Don’t be judgmental:

Another important dating etiquette is to stick to your standards and be open-minded. Just leave your judgments at the door. If your date shows up in an outfit you do not like, don’t immediately throw in the towel. Also, when your date says something that makes you want to judge them in a negative notion. Don’t. You don’t know this person well enough so don’t make your assumptions. Continue to ask questions. It takes time to get to know people.

8.) If you like them, make eye contact:

Your eyes can let the person know if you are interested in them, or as the case may be, bored of them. If you know that you are one of those people who has a hard time making eye contact, make sure you convey this to your date. It is always better to tell instead of them thinking that you are just uninterested and rude.

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9.) Don’t feel obligated in thanking them:

Is there any text more debated than the one that directly follows the first date? People should send a thank you note after the first date to let the other person know that you are interested in them.

So, if you are reading this and thinking of making the first move to ask your ‘date‘ for a proper date, keep these things in mind! Also, post your first date, if you think that you guys are compatible with each other, you can make your second move accordingly. Wishing you good luck.