10 Little Things to Do on a First Date to Score a Second Date

First of all, you shouldn’t go on a first date thinking you need to score a second date. You should go on a first date to have fun and find out whether you even want a second date.

But you don’t want to ruin your chance at a second date right off the bat just because you don’t present yourself favourably or don’t communicate your interest effectively.

Sometimes doing little things right is simply a way to show respect for yourself and others. It will also help you build confidence in the process when you feel good about yourself and get to say yes or no to that second-date invite.

Here are 10 things you can do on a first date to make a lasting impression:

1. Keep the date short

A first date allows you to confirm that your date is who they say they are and see if there’s something worth exploring further. It also gives you the opportunity to make acquaintance and familiarise yourself with each other.

You don’t need a full day for this. It’s best to keep it under three hours and leave the rest to be desired. Not to mention if you have more than one first date set up, keeping it short will help you avoid burning out.

2. Be on time, or even arrive a bit early

Being late is disrespectful and might signal to your date that you have problems in other areas of your life.

On the other hand, punctuality is the easiest way to communicate reliability, availability, and interest.

3. Put your phone away

Don’t look at your phone while on the date.

Give your date your undivided attention. Even if you will never see them again, you don’t have to be rude or make them feel bad about themselves. Enjoy their presence.

Similarly, don’t check the time or look at other people.

4. Listen and ask questions

Remember that a first date is NOT your monologue stage; it’s your opportunity to get to know a new person.

So let them speak, listen to them, and ask thoughtful questions to UNDERSTAND. Don’t assume things about them. Don’t judge. Don’t hate. If you don’t like what you hear, simply move on.

5. Be positive

I know, with the pandemic and everything going on, things aren’t the best. But your first date is not the place to unload your frustration.

A stranger chooses to spend time with you while they could be doing something else, and so do you, so make it worthwhile.

Plus, being positive makes you happier and enjoy yourself more on the date.

6. Don’t overshare

Sure, you should be clear about anything you think might be a deal-breaker to you and the other person. For example, you don’t want to get married again or you’re allergic to pets. You can give out this information casually by asking what they think about marriage or pets.

But you don’t have to tell your date everything about you all at once, especially things that have nothing to do with them. Frankly, they haven’t earned that yet.

7. If you asked the other person out, get the check

I don’t advise spending hundreds of dollars/pounds on a first date, but if you ask them out and suggest a place, it’s on you to get the check. Thank them for their time and presence.

If you’re the one who’s taken out, then thank your date for their generosity.

8. Dress your 8/10

What does 8/10 mean? It means putting in the effort but not necessarily *all* efforts.

You want to look like your usual self but a touch better. Make yourself feel beautiful and confident, yet still comfortable. It never hurts to dress well.

9. Enjoy yourself

You’re most attractive when you’re genuinely yourself and having a good time. Don’t fake it. If you know you aren’t feeling it, don’t be afraid to get up and leave.

And what’s more, don’t agree to a date that you know you won’t enjoy — whether it’s because of the location, the activity, or that you actually don’t find your date attractive.

Your date should make you feel good, not bad about yourself.

10. Show a clear interest if you’re interested

Use positive body language such as leaning forward, holding eye contact, or smiling genuinely.

Text them after the date. And most importantly, express your interest in seeing them again. Or ask them out directly.

Parting words

I understand that after too many unsuccessful first dates and relationships, you might feel like you can’t be bothered anymore. If that’s the case, you should take a dating break.

I did it, and it did me wonder. It allowed me to come back to dating with positive energy and excitement, and with some luck, I quickly found my fiance.

After all, these points are only suggestions; don’t feel pressured to follow any rules to the tee. Take what works best for you.