If you’re returning to the dating scene after a break, whether you’re single or looking for an affair, it can be tough to know how to pick up where you left off.

The dating game has changed a lot since you were last single (or married), and so have you – hopefully for the better! These ten first date tips will give you a great start to getting back out there and enjoying dating again.

From planning that first date to being yourself or choosing what to wear, we know that first dates can be overwhelming, particularly if you haven’t been on one in a while. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you out.

Look at treating a date as an adventure rather than an interview; this is a good first step and will help you to relax and enjoy your date. So, without further ado, here are our top ten first date tips:

Plan Ahead

The last thing you want on your first date is to be out of ideas when your date gets there. While you don’t necessarily want to seem arrogant, it is always good to have some ideas to pitch so it doesn’t seem like you don’t care or can’t choose.

Think carefully about where you want to go on your date, and look at food, drink, and nightlife options in the area. It never hurts to have a backup option in your pocket just in case your date doesn’t like the vibe of the place you’ve chosen.

Don’t Overcomplicate Things

While planning is important, you don’t want to over-complicate things. Keep in mind that they may be nervous, and throwing a bunch of options at them or a comprehensive plan for every minute of the evening won’t help.

So, keep it simple and think about what you have already agreed to. If it’s a drink, pick a bar. If it’s a restaurant, make a booking. If you are looking for an affair, keep it simple. You can visit Illicit Encounters, the UK’s best website for extramarital dating, for tips on how to do this!

Prepare Some ‘First Date’ Topics

One of the biggest worries that everyone has on a first date is silence. We all hate that awkward dead air as you both stare off into space while you try to think of something to talk about. One of our favourite first date tips is to prepare some topics to prevent this.

Of course, you are going to want to keep it natural (no notes!), but think about what you already know that you have in common. Try to avoid anything too heavy and make sure that they give your date the chance to talk about themselves.

Always Be On Time (Or Arrive Early!)

There is no such thing as fashionably late when it comes to your first date. You may think it shows that you are up for keeping it casual, but what it really shows is that you are not considerate about them, their time, or their requests.

It is so important to arrive on time for your first date, so give yourself plenty of time to get there and check public transport if you’re worried about it. There’s nothing wrong with getting there early; it shows you’re excited!

Present Yourself Respectfully

For your first date, you want to show that you have made a bit of an effort. You don’t need to dress to the nines necessarily, but it’s always better to put some work into how you look and what you are wearing.

For blokes, that means getting the ironing board out and making sure you are wearing something clean! For ladies, think about matching the outfit to the location. Smart casual is always a solid bet for a first date, and you can always get comfier later on.

Stay Relaxed & Have Fun

Staying relaxed can be easier said than done when on a first. If you are having an affair, you may be worrying about how not to get caught. But stressing over the little things is just going to wind you both up.

Remember that a first date is just that. Perhaps one of the most important first date tips is to let loose! You’re supposed to be having fun, so enjoy yourself and make sure they are enjoying themselves too. For example, if the place you picked to meet isn’t working, just go somewhere else!

Don’t Try To Be Someone Else

One of the classic first date mistakes is trying to put on too much of a front. It’s natural to want to seem to be confident and cool on a first encounter, but you will be disappointed if you think people can’t see right through a façade.

If you have something in common and share a connection, there will be sparks even if you’re a bit nervous or start geeking out about something you’re embarrassed about. Trying to be someone else won’t change if they’re not into you.

Turn Your Mobile Phone Off

Here is a really important point that so many people forget about. We all spend so much time on our mobile phones that it is second nature to check if we are momentarily distracted or if there is a lull in the conversation.

But, doing this sends the message that you are not interested in the person you’re with. This isn’t a drink with your mates; this is a first date. Be polite and keep your phone off while you get to know this person.

Do Ask Questions

“Ask questions” is a classic of first date tips, and with good reason: it’s important. No one likes a conversation hog, and if you spend the whole time talking about yourself, they are going to think that’s all you care about.

Consider some questions you can ask before your date, such as their interests, hobbies, and favourite things. Remember: asking questions also means listening to their answers and following up. Don’t just rattle through your list.

Show Your Sense Of Humour

Everyone likes someone who makes them laugh. Now, it’s true that we don’t all share the same sense of humour, but finding out if you and your date do is a crucial part of a good first date.

Don’t be afraid of cracking a few jokes, especially if you’re nervous. There’s a good chance your date will be nervous, too and acknowledging the awkwardness of the situation could help to break the ice. 

Final Thoughts: 10 First Date Tips

While the dating game may have changed in many ways since you were last on the dating scene, it’s fair to say that many of the essentials remain the same. The most important message to take from our first date tips is you’re supposed to both have fun, so don’t put too much pressure on it.

Try to be polite and considerate, and don’t freak out if something doesn’t go according to plan. Remember that your date may be nervous, so try and put them at ease. If you are looking for an extra-marital encounter, visit Illicit Encounters and look at who’s online. 

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