First Meeting /

So you’ve spent time chatting online and/or on the phone so its time to finally meet – this is the really exciting bit! You are bound to be nervous on your first meeting but don’t let this harm your chances of a second date just because you are shy or quiet. Below are some great dating tips to ensure you make a great first impression.

1. Its been mentioned already in other tips on this site but make sure you meet in a public place at a time you are comfortable with and let someone know where you are going.

2. Don't be late. It creates a bad impression on your first date and doesn't really show how keen you are to meet the person you've been getting to know online. If you're really late then they may not wait for you!

3. Confidence can be an attractive quality so try and be confident in your manner without going over the top, it will make the date go easier.

4. It is important that you be yourself as after all that is the person they came to meet! So it will do you no favours to pretend to be something you are not.

5. Listen to the other person. Sounds simple but you’d be amazed by the number of people who are poor at this. If you listen and ask relevant questions then it will show you are genuinely interested in them.

6. Avoid silences where possible. Always have a few standard questions up your sleeve to use in those awkward moments to keep the conversation flowing and both of you will feel more comfortable.

7. Dont talk about your ex-partners all night. Be positive and talk about the here and now rather than bore them about your past which they won't want to hear on a first encounter.

8. Don’t rush things by asking too many personal questions too early. This may make them feel uncomfortable and if the first date goes well you’ll be able to ask more personal questions in the future.

9. Try and make the other person feel comfortable on the date and things will flow more easily if you can suppress your nerves.

10. Have fun! This is not a job interview and sometimes that spark is there and sometimes its not. Even if it doesn’t develop into a great romance then you might make some good friends along the way. Enjoy yourself.