If you’re a novice to the dating scene or have been in a relationship and are a bit rusty when it comes to dating, Robyn our head matchmaker has put together her top 3 tips to make that first impression count.

1) What’s the first thing you see?

When you go on that first date what do you notice first? Is it their smile, grooming, the way the talk, present themselves or is it the overall package? I bet you didn’t know that it differs for men and women. Women will look at the man’s smile first off so make sure when you meet them for the first time your happy and smiling. Men as you have probably guessed will look at the women’s appearance or physique. Note that the persons hair or dress style does not really count when meeting for the first time.

First Date Tip:
It’s all about the smile and the appearance. So guys make sure your totally focused on smiling and girls make sure your look your absolute best. This may sound superficial but these are the cold hard facts when it comes to first impressions on a date so take notice of these.

2) What Should You Be Talking About?

What ever you do don’t get into politics or religion, steer well clear of these 2 topics on your first date. Stick to hobbies, travel, interests and a bit about your job or what you do for work. These topics are very common for both men and women. Make sure you let the conversation flow and don’t make it too rehearsed. Relax, go with the flow and don’t stress too much if there are quite pauses. Be confident in your delivery and try to add some humour into the conversation. Remember, this is all about having fun and enjoying meeting new people for the first time. Granted, this may be hard if you have been out of the dating scene for a while but that’s why we are here at Executive Match. We can help you navigate the nerves of those first few dates.

First Date Tip:

If you haven’t got a hobby then it would be a great idea to start one. Also, learn some relaxation techniques so your not loosing it or freaking out on your first date. Deep breath, count to 10 or do a yoga session before you meet!

3) What not to do on a First Date?

For men and women it’s pretty much the same and it’s probably best we put these in point form:

– don’t talk on your mobile pone unless it’s an emergency

– don’t go on and on about yourself, try to maintain interest and ask questions about the other person

– don’t drink too much and if the other party is getting tipsy it’s best you stay the sober one

– don’t talk too much about ex partners or you last break up

– don’t insist to pay. For the first date it’s a good idea to split the bill

First Date Tip:

Leave your mobile phone at home or in the car. The first date is all about the two of you and nothing else should matter for that encounter. For men be a good listener and take in everything she has to say. For the girls make sure you ask him loads of questions without it sounding like it’s an interview. Again, the conversation will flow naturally if there’s a connection & natural chemistry. Connections don’t always happen instantly. It can take time for the conversation to gather momentum, a natural flow so be aware of this and don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be the life of the party in the first 10 minutes of meeting. Slow and steady is the name of the game here.

If your about to take the plunge into the world of dating then have a chat with Robyn at Executive Match. She’s your best wing women and will be able to help you get over those first date nerves.