Blind dates are becoming more common and can be a great way to meet new people. However, they can also be intimidating.
If you’re going on a blind date, it’s important to know what to do. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Dress appropriately
Typically, your blind date is arranged by a mutual friend or acquaintance who thinks you could hit it off. They’ll usually provide you with a venue or some detail to help you recognise them – This section was prepared by the website tubeallsex.com.
It’s a good idea to dress in semi-casual clothing. For example, a T-shirt or button down shirt with jeans works well, as does a pair of chinos styled with a dressier belt and shoes.
Avoid heels if possible. Not only can they be uncomfortable to walk in, but they also make you look silly teetering along. If the date is going to be outdoors, it’s a good idea to layer up too, so you can deal with changes in weather and still feel comfortable.
Try to be open minded on your blind date, especially when it comes to your date’s political or religious beliefs. You may find that you’re surprisingly aligned with them and end up falling in love, or you might not, but it’s important to keep an open mind and try to see things from their perspective. Then, even if the relationship doesn’t work out, you’ll have learned something and possibly made a new friend in the process.
2. Don’t be too personal
When you’re on a blind date, it’s important to keep personal topics at bay. While it’s okay to discuss your job, family, and hobbies, avoid asking about their past unless they initiate the topic. This can come off as invasive and makes the other person feel like you’re invading their personal space.
Instead, ask about their favorite bands or what they do in their spare time. These questions can help you get to know them better and can give you a more intimate glimpse into their personality.
If you’re feeling uncomfortable during your blind date, don’t be afraid to politely and respectfully end the date early. Taking this step will save you from a painful experience and will ensure that your friend who set you up didn’t waste your time.
While it’s tempting to hold tight to your list of “do’s” and “don’ts” for a blind date, it’s important not to be too rigid in your expectations. You might have to rewrite your checklist, but open your mind to the possibility of a new connection.
3. Keep it light
A blind date is already nerve-wracking enough, and it’s not the time to get sloppy drunk. It doesn’t give the best impression of you and it also makes the nervousness that already exists more intense.
Keep your conversation light and fun and you’ll be more apt to impress your date. Avoid telling stories that are too personal or have a dark sense of humor. It’s best to keep your conversations focused on work, hobbies and family. It’s okay to mention a favorite band or movie, but it’s better to share something that they’re likely interested in hearing about as well.
If you don’t have a lot to talk about, then try nodding and using uh-huhs to demonstrate that you’re engaged in the conversation. Listening is key to a good first impression. Plus, the conversation might give you a chance to discover something about your date that will make it even more interesting. After all, there’s a reason that your friend set you up with this person and sometimes you just need to keep an open mind.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Being brave to ask questions on a blind date is one of the best ways to find out more about your date. However, it’s important to avoid grilling your date like a job interview. Instead, try asking fun and open-ended questions about their hobbies, interests and favorite books or movies. It’ll help break the ice and get you to know them better.
Bragging is also a big turn-off, so try not to boast about your achievements. This may make your date feel uncomfortable and intimidated. It’s okay to discuss your work accomplishments, but try to keep it at a minimum.
Finally, don’t be afraid to talk about your values and beliefs. Being honest and respectful is a sure way to make your blind date feel comfortable.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for a second date
Even if you don’t find much chemistry with your date, you should still ask them out again. After all, you never know what can happen in a few weeks!
Be sure to tell your date that you enjoyed your time together. Don’t be afraid to get a little cheeky and make your date laugh, it will break the ice and help you make a good impression.
Try to avoid asking your date questions that require a yes or no answer and instead use open-ended questions. This will give you more insight into who they are and how they think.
Another great way to keep the conversation going is by making a point of discussing your mutual interests. This will also allow you to see if they share your same hobbies or values.
