Dating Etiquette

No matter what, good manners will never go out of style. So read, remember, and use these dating guidelines.

Be your best self. Be who you really are, but avoid discussing all your problems and insecurities. Be positive.

Ask questions and listen. Be conscious of how much you are talking about yourself, and how much you are learning about the other person. Don't just ask for the sake of asking, take the time to really listen and get to know the person you are with.

Relax and try to have fun, regardless of whether you'd like to see the person again. Try not to over-analyze.

If you'd like to see him or her again, tell them so. If not, tell them you had a great time and wish them all the best, in a nice way. If you're interested, call. Don't leave them hanging or play games. Be honest.

Offer to pay. Typically, the inviter pays. However, the invitee might offer to pitch in.

Be respectful of boundaries. If she needs to be home by a certain time, is uncomfortable in a certain environment or doesn't want to kiss, don't push it.

Keep it quiet. Don't gossip, brag or complain about your date. Respect continues long after you have said good-night.

Date safe. Meet in a public place. Go out in groups. Inquire (subtly) about this person and get to know his friends. Avoid giving out too much personal information when you first meet. Do not compromise your safety for feelings of passion or sentiment.

Remember your good table manners, say please and thank-you and avoid swearing. Thank them for the date, no matter what. If you like them, call them to tell them you had a good time.

Courtesy of http://www.bindidates.com

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We have all been in the situation where we are with people all is going well and then for whatever reason the conversation dies. How do we minimise this and move forward? Here are four steps to success:

Firstly DON'T PANIC. It is normal for conversations to ebb and flow. Allowing space to listen to the other person and for them to feel comfortable is important. If you look at your parents/grand parent you will notice that they spend a lot of time not talking but just being together (IT'S IMPORTANT).

Secondly BE CONFIDENT that person is there with you because they want to learn more about you. They will be nervous as well. Ask them a question about themselves find out about their childhood, their hopes/dreams. AVOID talking about your or their dislikes this can only put a negative spin on the date.

Thirdly LOCATION. Minimise those pregnant pauses by meeting somewhere fun, try the zoo, an art gallery, a fun fair, or any place of interest. This will automatically give you something to talk about. AVOID dinner for 2 at a posh restaurant, this will put you both under pressure and any pause will seem much longer when there is only the 2 of you and an acre of white table cloth. It's difficult to talk while eating.

Fourthly TIMING. Meet earlier in the day, try to meet before lunch do something together, then have a casual lunch. If all is going well you can continue the date in the afternoon.