There’s nothing to panic about on your first date. But for most teens or newbies, dating is a nerve-wracking experience. That’s because the whole experience can define the start of a long-term relationship.

You must do some soul-searching and preparation for planning out the perfect date. We don’t want to burst your bubble, but there is no such thing as an ideal date.

Today, technology defines our lives. The dating industry has changed significantly since dozens of social networking sites and dating platforms hit the industry. However, before using these apps and websites to find your dream date, ensure you run all necessary background checks.

All you can do is stay open, cheerful, and attentive when meeting someone new. Whether you are dating online or offline, here are some proven dating tips to make your life easier.

Best Dating Tips for Newbies

Keep it Simple

The first rule is never to over-complicate things. That’s because you can’t predict what will happen when you meet someone for the first time. So, avoid planning a whole day out or a romantic dinner. Instead, keep those hiking or stargazing dates for the future.

Instead, keep things short and straightforward.

Set a date at a local coffee shop or anywhere you can chat without worrying about paying for a fancy restaurant. You can spoil your date later if you find them interesting enough to plan a second date.

Take Your Online Dating Experience to the Next Level

Online dating is all the rage. It’s completely OK to start dating virtually. But once you become comfortable with each other, stop texting, and plan a physical date. That’s because you can’t know someone without meeting them in person.

While texting gives you a sense of the other person, it doesn’t provide any significant details about their personality. You must know about their body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice to get a complete idea of what your date looks and sounds like.

Don’t Stress

Now that’s something we know is not in your hands. But that’s the best advice for newbies. The more relaxed you feel, the better you will communicate with the other person. A simple trick to be comfortable around your date is to sit at a right angle to your date. That way, you won’t have to face them directly. This sitting arrangement also allows you to do a bit of people-watching and takes the pressure off trying to fill awkward conversation pauses.

Know What to Talk About

We know that when two people truly connect, the conversation flows smoothly. But that doesn't mean you don't know what to talk about during the date. Do your homework and figure out the likes/dislikes of the other person. The conversation can revolve around career goals, hobbies, or your dating preferences. The key is not to make it sound like an interview.

---

---

Be Confident

Who doesn’t like to be around confident people? Your body language sends powerful signals and tells a lot about your personality. One of the best ways to boost your confidence is to do a bit of ‘power posing’ before the date.

We mean standing in an assertive posture for a few minutes in front of the mirror. Keep your hands on the hips like a superhero, and trick your brain into feeling more confident. This tip is for both the guys and girls out there. Make sure you don’t stand like that in front of your date, though, or you will look ridiculous.

Practice Active Listening

Resist the temptation to talk about only yourself. When answering questions, make sure they are short. If you keep rambling about your accomplishments or ambitions, your date will soon fall asleep or take a loo break to avoid your rant. To respond appropriately to all questions, you must listen intelligently. Practice the same when your date is answering any of your questions.

Make a Strong First Impression

Leaving an impression only takes a few seconds, but the effect is long-lasting. It only takes a few seconds for someone to form an opinion about your demeanor and appearance. One of the best ways to leave a good impression is to smile. Not only is it a sign of happiness, but smiling projects positivity onto those around you.

Do a Follow-Up

If the conversation flowed smoothly, and you talked about mutual interest, you can count it as a successful date. But the next step is to do a follow-up so you can plan another date.

Be Positive

We know that you are nervous and being positive is not easy. But even newbies should try to be positive and keep any negativity at bay. It probably will if you think your first date will be a disaster. So, harness the power of positive thinking. Use positive statements and avoid words like ‘don’t’ or ‘not.’

Make Eye Contact

Making eye contact means that you are giving undivided attention to someone. So, naturally, that makes the other person feel unique and valued.

Bonus Tips

Smile sincerely and openly. It takes little to smile but goes a long way to break the ice.

Pay attention to any signs or cues that your date is giving. For example, maybe they are not feeling comfortable in the café you chose, or there is too much noise. Then, you can go to another place where both of you can enjoy peace.

Don’t start flirting right away. Instead, lighten up and let the conversation flow naturally.

---

Final Thoughts

Furthermore, when posting information about yourself online, use common sense. Don’t add your address to your dating profile, and avoid posting a picture in which you are half-dressed or drunk. If you are meeting someone from a dating website or app like The Dating Ring, informing another friend or your siblings is a good idea. Make sure you choose a public place or suggest a place you like. That will help you feel comfortable in the surroundings.

---