The first meeting with someone with whom we potentially want to build a relationship with is always a gamble.
The desire to get to know the other person is as strong as our wish to make a good impression. And sometimes, this can lead to unnecessary stress.
That’s why it’s a good idea to start with some clear rules in mind. For example: an absolute ban on keeping your phone in front of you. The constant notifications could inhibit the chemistry and connection with the person you are on a date with.
Here are five good rules for making the first date go well, as shared by the experts at Hinge. The dating app “designed to be deleted,” has put together a guide for experiencing “distraction-free” dates and creating meaningful connections.
5 Rules for a Successful First Date
Hands Off the Phone
Checking your phone continuously during a date is a big no-no. Not only could it seem rude, but it could also compromise the chemistry.
Anyone facing someone who keeps checking their phone may think the other person is not interested.
The first piece of advice is straightforward: put your phone on silent and turn off notifications to avoid the temptation to look at them.
Stop Multitasking
No matter how busy your schedule is, it’s essential to find quality time to go out with someone. Therefore, it’s best to avoid scheduling commitments right after the date, allowing your potential partner time to open up with their emotions and intentions.
If you do have other plans for after the date, it’s better to make all arrangements in advance. Make sure you already know the time and place of the meeting, so you don’t have to multitask during the date and you can focus on the person in front of you.
No Work Emails Right Before the Date
It’s essential to live in the moment when meeting someone for the first time, as it’s an opportunity to open up to the other person and see how you feel in their company.
So, just before the appointment, it’s better to try not to engage in intense conversations or read work emails, as this can be distracting and make it seem like you need to get back to those topics or that person.
When people go out with someone who is distracted, they tend to lose interest.
Curiosity, Without Hasty Judgments
Both people are on a date to get to know each other. Ideally, you should aim to establish good eye contact, use positive body language, actively listen, and, most importantly, ask questions.
Often during a date, people look for “the spark,” but it’s much better to avoid making sudden, possibly incorrect decisions. Instead, the advice is to give the potential connection time to grow.
Be Creative
Bored with the typical bar dates? You’re not alone. 65% of Hinge users want more creative dates.
Coming up with original ideas for a date could be an opportunity to showcase your personality better and stand out from the lot. For example, if you’re always looking for something new to cook, you could go to the grocery store together, buy something you’ve never tried before, and challenge each other to cook it at home.
For those who are particularly thoughtful and want to see if there’s chemistry and connection with a potential partner, an escape room is a great option, as you’ll work together to find all the hidden clues and escape side-by-side!
If you’re environmentally conscious and civic-minded, you could choose something practical, such as a beach cleanup program, city park cleanup, or another project that involves protecting a place you care about.
