Meeting a potential first date through dating apps can be awkward. You no longer have the luxury of thinking of well-thought-out responses and witty one-liners. That’s when you need to make a real connection with them if you want to move forward. That’s probably why many dating apps offer first-date tips, just to make sure a potential offline date goes smoothly.
We’ve all heard stories from friends about how their dates seemed like “the one” while they were texting for weeks but turned out to be a complete disaster when they finally met. However, if you think you’ve made a real connection online, you’ll be able to connect and engage with each other in person, too. So, we’re here to put your mind at ease with a few tips you should consider when meeting someone in person for the first time after chatting online for a while.
Preparing for the meeting
The first meeting should occur in comfortable conditions for both, on neutral territory. No matter how good a person seems in communication, you should not rush to invite him home and have close contact. The possibility to meet for a first date opens up excellent prospects for getting to know your interlocutor better, forming a more detailed idea of him, and understanding whether it is worth continuing the acquaintance. All online dating etiquette books state that you should dress appropriately for the setting and occasion.
Psychologists advise not to choose places with a large crowd of people and a noisy environment for the first date.
A great option is to go to a cozy cafe where you can chat in a comfortable atmosphere. At first, a feeling of awkwardness may arise because it takes time to compare the image created on the dating site with a real person. Gradually, communication should become easier and more relaxed.
Do not forget that the meeting does not require you to do anything. It is too early to say whether it will be fateful or just a fleeting memory. The main thing is that the date is interesting and exciting for everyone.
Topics for conversation
Do you often wonder what to say when you first meet online? This can be an even bigger problem if you are shy. Meeting someone offline for the first time can be awkward. That is why it is better to prepare questions in advance to start the conversation comfortably instead of stuttering and stumbling over words. Ask them about their favorite movies, TV shows, travel destinations, etc. This can be a good way to start a date.
Tips for Behavior
- Please be punctual. This is one of the most important dating rules. So unless there is a sudden emergency or the traffic is unusually bad, be on time.
- If you are going out to dinner, ask your potential partner what he or she would like to order. If she has chosen a restaurant, ask for their menu suggestions. This is just a thoughtful gesture that will make your partner feel appreciated. Respecting their needs is non-negotiable.
- Keep your drinking in check. This is something people don’t talk about. While it is good to have a few drinks to loosen up, it is important not to lose control.
Conclusion
The world of dating is full of its own wonders and mysteries. It can be scary and alluring at the same time. So, once you have done the proper background checks and are sure you have not fallen for a scam, the next step is to prepare well for your first physical date. There is no set number of first-date tips after online dating that can guarantee its success. But knowing the dos and don’ts of a first date is useful.
In the end, it all depends on how you both communicate on an individual level and whether sparks fly between you. The best way to let this happen is to be yourself and follow the flow.