We've all heard it all before, dozens of times, "You only have one chance to make a first impression."
This has special importance when it comes to dating. According to our IJL internal polls, daters are quick to decide whether or not they're interested in seeing someone again. So whatever happens in those first 15-20 minutes of the first date frequently determines whether or not there's going to be a second date, or any potential relationship.
With this is mind, we've prepared a few simple tips to help you make a better first impression:
1) Pay close attention to your body language: Project an open and inviting attitude with open posture. Uncross your arms and sit or stand with your shoulders back, not hunched over.
2) Be genuinely happy: This means more than just smiling. Forced smiles come across as forced or fake. If you're in a bad or troubled mood (or just nervous) before a date, do something to cheer yourself up and relax. Listen to some music, meditate, take a walk. Whatever it is that will help you change your attitude. Bring a genuinely upbeat mood with you, and you'll make a much better impression.
3) Hold your eye contact: A great way to communicate interest in another person is to hold eye contact for just a couple of beats longer than usual. JUST a couple of seconds, no more.
4) Relax: Tone down and turn off all of your nervous habits. Some people are hair twisters, others tap their feet, others drum their fingers against the table. All of these little tics are signs of discomfort and make people less likely to trust and warm to you.
It's impossible to guarantee a great first date. But if you follow these tips, you'll likely make a great first impression.
