The first date may not be totally make-or-break, but it’s vitally important. These first date tips for men will help you make that ideal first impression.
A first date is all about making a perfect impression. For the girl you like, the first date is an easy way to find out if you’re a charming and charismatic guy, or just another regular guy. To make the right impression, you need to know the important first date tips for men.
You may have taken your time to woo this girl, and you may have impressed her enough into liking you for the guy you are. But all of that counts to nothing if you can’t be a real man and impress the girl on your first real date together.
After all, a first date is the real test of a guy as a dating potential. [Read: 18 subtle signs to find out if the girl likes you on your first date]
First date tips for men that really matter
For some guys, being a great date comes naturally. But even if you’re not a natural when it comes to charming women, fret not.
We’re going to give you all the key rules, tips, do’s and don’ts to help you nail that first date. By the time it’s finished, you’ll be looking forward to the second one!
1. Relax
This is one of the most important first date tips for men. Learn to relax when you’re on the date. Your date wants to impress you just as much as you want to impress her.
So instead of behaving like you’re going into a losing battle, lose your nervousness and try to have a nice time instead. This is probably one of the most important first date tips for men around. [Read: How to look around and pick interesting things to talk about on a date]
2. Pick the right place
Usually, it’s the guy who picks the location. So make sure you pick a place that feels romantic. There should be people around, but yet, it should feel isolated and private.
If it’s an afternoon date, a setting with greenery creates a perfect touch of romance. And if it’s an evening date, nothing beats warm lights like candles to create a perfect setting. [Read: 15 tips to keep in mind to plan the perfect first date and impress her]
3. Don’t be late
This is one of the first date rules for men that you must pay attention to! Punctuality matters a lot on a first date, especially when you’re the guy.
If you aren’t picking her up, get to the place on time so you can arrive before her. She’ll feel more relaxed and comfortable when she walks in, knowing that you’re already waiting for her.
4. Let her know most of your plans beforehand
Don’t leave your date in the dark while planning your evening with her. Tell her about what you have in mind, so she can be prepared for the occasion.
A perfect way to plan a good date is to make the evening feel more eventful by going to more than just one place. To know more about this idea, read these top 50 first date ideas and combinations to wow the girl on your first date!
5. Show off your protective streak
An important first date tip that most guys forget is this one. You don’t need to wait for several dates until you are dating exclusively to make her feel like a princess.
Take care of her and make her feel like she can depend on you for anything when you’re around. [Read: 12 Prince Charming traits that make girls swoon!]
6. Dress up for the date
A girl takes more than an hour to dress up and look good on the date, just to impress and look good for you. Don’t you think you need to reciprocate that favor for her?
Dressing up in something clean and crisp is the least you can do to make the girl feel respected on the date. And she’ll definitely be impressed to see that you’ve made the effort to look nice for her too.
7. Seduce her with your fragrance
Smelling great on a first date definitely has a lot of perks. Each time you move close to say something, she’ll get a hint of your manly fragrance. And as long as it smells great on you, it’ll surely make a good impression on her too. [Read: A foolproof guide to making out with a girl on your very first date]
8. Hygiene matters
Of all the first date rules for men to listen to, make sure it’s this one. If you want to charm a girl, play close attention to your hygiene, and that includes facial hair, nails and breath.
Bad breath is a complete no-no, and can ruin your date before you even realize it. Pop in a breath mint or a gum before you walk into the date.
9. Quit the bragging
Many guys assume that bragging about their job or their refined taste in cars or scotch will impress a girl in no time. But contrary to popular belief, bragging is one of the biggest turn-offs for women.
When talking bout first date tips for men, quitting the bragging is up there. [Read: The 10 biggest dating turn offs for girls]
If you really want to put yourself out there and let her know how awesome you are, talk about yourself without coming across as an arrogant braggart. Listen to her point of view, ask her questions about her own achievements and her line of work.
10. Don’t get drunk
Yes, some of our first date rules for guys are a little boring too! Sometimes, it’s easy to get carried away and have one drink too many without even realizing it. This is especially likely if you’re nervous or overexcited to be with such a wonderful girl.
To make the best impression, don’t have more than a couple of drinks, especially if you’re having them on the rocks. [Read: 20 great ways to perfect your first date conversation and impress her!]
11. Don’t push your point of view down her throat
You may have decided on a few things to do that night, or you may want your date to try a particular dish at the restaurant.
Make a suggestion about it to your date, and you’ll seem like a great guy. But if you try to force her to do something or try something, that’s just plain annoying.
If your date ever feels like you’re forcing your point of view or trying to arm-twist her into doing something, she’d definitely feel uncomfortable about it – which could ruin your chances of having a second date with her. [Read: 14 signs you’re ruining your first date and don’t even know it!]
12. Read her body language and take the hint
You may be enjoying yourself on the date, but keep an eye on your date’s body language too. Does she seem happy to be with you? When you talk about something, does she seem genuinely interested in it?
If your date starts looking around, seems distracted, or doesn’t ask you to elaborate about something you’re saying, get the hint and talk about something else. [Read: How to make a girl laugh and like you instantly on a first date]
13. Your confidence matters
Confidence is one of the most positive traits in a man. If you can’t wield confidence through your attitude and posture, you’re already fighting a losing battle. Sit up straight, speak with a firm voice, and exude confidence in everything you do.
Learn to love and respect yourself, and confidence will follow. [Read: How to love yourself and be more confident]
14. Watch what you say
Don’t get carried away and be caught with your foot in your mouth. It’s always better to be safe than sorry on a first date. Be cautious and avoid talking about things that may make her feel uncomfortable.
Avoid talking about parents, exes, expectations from potential partners, and anything else that could make her cringe or feel awkward. [Read: 40 perfect first date questions that’ll make her open up faster to you]
15. Treat her like a lady
Displaying chivalry is one of the easiest ways to waltz into a woman’s heart. Every girl likes to be pampered and taken care of, at least when she’s on a date with a guy who’s trying to impress her.
Being chivalrous is certainly one of the notable first date rules for men to pay attention to. [Read: How to be chivalrous around the girl on a date]
16. Charm and compliment her
Flattery always works wonders on a date. Talk about the things you like about her. If there’s something about your date that fascinates you, compliment her about it.
And a tip to remember here: make sure you compliment your date’s attire as soon as you see her. She’s spent a pretty long time deciding on the perfect dress for the occasion, and will feel rather let down if you have nothing good to say about it! [Read: How to charm a girl and flatter her into liking you]
17. Keep your hands to yourself
You may think that touching her will show her you’re interested, but this is the first date. Being touchy isn’t a good move and that’s one of the key first date rules for men.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you can’t help her out of the car or place your hand on her back when walking through a crowd. But if it’s not coming naturally to you, don’t touch her. [Read: How to touch a girl on a date and make her desire you]
18. Give her something to work with
So many guys think being the strong and silent type is what women want, but let’s get real. She wants a guy who can talk and have a conversation with her. Don’t make her constantly have to come up with topics and reply with one-word answers.
If you’re not a chatty guy, then avoid dinner dates. [Read: 20 ways to perfect your first date conversation]
19. Pay for the date
Now, if she insists on splitting the bill, by all means, you can. We live in the 21st century. But if you like a girl, treating her for lunch or dinner is a nice way to show you’re interested in her.
Some of our first date rules for men depend on the situation, and that’s the case with this one.
20. But don’t cheap out!
It’s a first date and impressions matter. Doing a lunch date over a dinner date is fine, but if you’re telling her she can’t order a glass of wine, that’s not a good look for you.
If you want to save money, then choose date ideas which are more interactive than dinner and a movie. Instead, grab a coffee together, go on a hike, or visit a museum! [Read: Going dutch on a date – 16 rules, tips, and how to decide to pay or split]
21. Don’t swear
You may swear a lot usually but on a first date, keep it clean. If you’re trying to curse to look cool, it’s not going to work. If anything, it’ll make you look less classy, and that isn’t a characteristic women are looking for.
After learning the best first date tips for men, it’s easy to forget this one in the heat of the moment! [Read: 13 things every girl wishes for on a perfect first date]
22. Be engaging with the conversation
A good date happens when both people are enjoying the conversation and it’s flowing. You shouldn’t be dominating the conversation and talking solely about yourself. No one likes a narcissist.
The first date is about getting to know one another, so get to know her. Ask questions, and see if you are compatible.
23. Be excited but not too excited
When someone’s excited about the date, it’s cute. But when it looks like this is the first date you’ve ever been on, that’s not so cute.
If you’re getting nervous about the date, then make your date more interactive. Dinner may be too much for you to handle, and that’s okay. Instead, go see a concert or a comedy show and get your wiggles out there. [Read: How to calm your nerves in any situation you’re walking into]
24. You don’t need to get too deep
If you’re thinking you need a deep and intense conversation on the first date, think again. Leave the deep and serious topics for another date.
Right now; you are supposed to be feeling each other out and seeing if there’s any chemistry. [Read: 10 biggest dating turn offs for girls]
25. She doesn’t owe you anything
If you think because you took her on a first date and paid for dinner that she owes you anything, she doesn’t. You’re taking her out because you want to get to know her.
This doesn’t mean she needs to have sex with you, kiss you or even hug you. That’s one of the biggest first date rules for men.
26. Actually listen
Women want a partner who’s going to listen when they’re talking. This is a normal need. Being with someone who doesn’t pay attention to what you’re saying is annoying.
On the date, actively listen to her. If you’re having a hard time paying attention, maybe she’s not the right one for you. [Read: 19 ways to be a better listener in a relationship]
27. Leave your ex out of it
This is one of the most important first date tips for men. If you’re bringing up your ex in the conversation, maybe you’re not ready to date yet. When it comes to the first date, don’t bring up the past.
Leave that topic for a future date when you’re both serious about one another. [Read: 14 signs you’re unintentionally ruining your first date]
28. Be your best self
It’s easy to say you should be yourself. Of course you should, but when it comes to the first date, we’re never fully just ourselves. Instead, we show the best side of ourselves, and that’s what you should do.
This isn’t you hanging out with your best buds while watching the game. This is the first date with a woman you find to be attractive, and possibly a potential partner. [Read: 18 signs your date really likes you on your first date]
29. Your goal isn’t to get laid
The first date is about getting to know her. You shouldn’t have any expectation of the date ending with sex. If anything, you’re lucky if you get a hug, maybe even a kiss on the cheek.
If you’re going into the date with the hopes of sex, you’ll be disappointed, and you’re not going to have a good date. Make understanding this one of your biggest first date rules for men. [Read: The 15 things that will impress every first date]
30. Be clear about what you want
Out of all the first date rules for men, so many guys ignore this. Basically, most people aren’t clear with their intentions and this is what causes problems. You both need to be on the same page.
We know you think it’s mysterious to not tell someone what you’re looking for, but if you’re not clear, you’ll look like an asshole.
Are you looking for something casual? Something serious? Be up front. [Read: How to set boundaries in a relationship]
31. Keep the date short
You may really dig her, but having a three-hour first date is exhausting, and you don’t want to make her feel like she has no way out. Instead, you want her to be curious enough to want to see you again.
So, keep the first date short and sweet. Your first date should be no longer than an hour and a half. The mystery will bring her back for more.
32. Try a daytime date
The first date is supposed to be an easy and light introduction into who you are and vice versa. There shouldn’t be any romantic dim lighting. Your first date is about building a relationship and trust.
So, ask her out during the daytime where she’ll feel most comfortable. Plus, also make sure the place you’re meeting is near her home. [Read: Top 10 fun and romantic summer date ideas]
33. Use the weekend
Saturday is the best day to go on a first date. You have a clear schedule, she’s not stressed or tired from work, and everyone is happy.
Meeting her on Saturday afternoon is the best option as everyone will be well-rested and you both have time to go out during the evening with friends.
34. Stay away from money talk
We’re all very happy you can afford to drive an Audi, but talking about it makes you look like a tool. Don’t try to prove your worth through money; it’s not going to work.
She has eyes, she can see what you have and what you don’t have. Just relax – and make this one of your key first date rules for men. [Read: How to talk about money with your partner without fighting]
35. Keep going on first dates
It’s the first date, so nothing is concrete. With that being said, don’t lock yourself in. Go on other less serious dates as well, as this will keep you from acting desperate.
Plus, you’ll get to practice going on dates with other people. [Read: Why dating multiple people is actually really healthy]
36. Put the phone away
If you constantly check your phone or text people, it’s not a good look. Even playing with your phone in your hand is a bad idea. Just put your phone away.
If you can’t leave your phone for an hour, either the date isn’t going that well or you have an addiction. [Read: The 10 biggest dating turn offs for women]
37. Don’t ask the question
Women know what this question is – but still, men seem to constantly ask it, without seeing how bad a move it is. Do not ask her, “How is someone like you single?” It shows your level of insecurity.
Plus, it also suggests that there’s something wrong with her. Avoid this question. It does more damage than good.
38. Don’t ask her how the date is going
No, no, no, no, no, no. This is a complete buzzkill! Listen, we get that you may want your ego stroked, but don’t ask her how the date is going at any point.
She might think you’re asking that question just to see if there’s a possibility of other types of stroking (i.e. sex) at the end of said date. [Read: 10 unfair but very relevant dating rules we all have to live by]
39. Don’t assume you are together
This is your first date, so chill out a little. Even if it gets to a second or third date, it still doesn’t mean that you two are an item.
If you see her texting some other guy, or telling you that she’s also seeing someone else, you can’t be offended. See, not all first date rules for men are comfortable to hear!
40. Don’t make her tell you “something interesting about herself”
If this is how you get the conversation going on your dates, no wonder you have a hard time dating.
First of all, way to put her on the spot. Second of all, what is she really going to say? This isn’t an organic way to start a conversation. If you want to find something out, start sharing a story about yourself and wait for her to share in turn. [Read: How to create sparks when starting a conversation with a girl]
41. Go easy on the gifts
Don’t throw gifts at her. If you want to buy something for her, that’s fine, but don’t do it for every date, and keep it simple and genuine.
It might give her an “I really want you to sleep with me” vibe, which isn’t attractive AT ALL. It adds pressure, and makes her think she owes you something – namely, something sexy. No. This is one of the key first date tips for men. [Read: 13 exciting ways to keep a girl happy and interested in you]
42. Don’t assume she doesn’t know who you are
We live in the age of technology. If you think you play the mysterious card really well, understand that there’s a high chance she already has background information on you. If you have Facebook, Instagram, Twitter—she can easily find out who you are.
There’s no point bullshitting, she already knows. [Read: The texting and follow-up guide after a great first date]
43. Don’t act too concerned
Remember, you’re out with someone who’s mature enough to think and take care of herself. You can ask her occasionally if she’s comfortable, or if she requires something.
But don’t keep popping the same question to her again and again. Don’t push your protective and concerned act too far, you might annoy her. By doing that, you’re going against the first date rules for men. [Read: Overprotective boyfriend – 26 dominating signs and what to do to fix him]
44. Don’t reveal too much
It’s fun to be with this girl who’s so much fun to hang out with. And you want to prove that you’re a great guy to hang out with to her. So you tell her about all your brave, stupid and hilarious encounters.
You start off right from the first time you ripped your pants in first grade, and go on all the way to the latest incident. Stop!
First of all, she doesn’t want to know all of that. And secondly, spare some loving and exploring for later. [Read: How to be mysterious and leave everyone smitten and craving for more]
45. Don’t stare at her body
This is a big first date rule for men! When you’re out with a lady, she expects to be treated like one. If she’s wearing something with a deep neckline, stop staring at her breasts and trying to judge how much more cleavage is concealed!
Concentrate on her face, and have a great conversation. Be attentive to her needs. Staring at a girl’s cleavage is a big no-no too, unless, of course, you know the art of staring at a girl’s cleavage like a gentleman.
46. The goodbye kiss
This is something all guys look forward to the most during a date: the goodbye kiss. But don’t force a kiss when it’s not available to you. Sometimes, a girl may not be ready to kiss you goodbye and at other times, she may be too awkward to initiate it.
So how do you go about it? Well, just kiss her cheek softly and linger for about a second, and step back slowly. If her eyes are still closed or she’s still really close to your face even after you step back, it’s a good sign that she wants you to kiss her on her lips. [Read: 10 flirty tips to arouse a girl and make her want to kiss you on the date]
On the other hand, if she backs away quickly or breaks into a conversation, it’s a definite sign that she’s not ready for that kiss just yet. But don’t lose heart, as long as you’ve used these first date tips for men, there’s a very good chance that a second date is just around the corner!
Just relax – and be yourself!
This list of first date tips for men should give you a good grounding to go forth and impress the life out of your date. But, the two most important tips of all are simply to relax and be yourself.
Far too many guys try to act in a different way to what’s natural – and then you’re stuck playing a part that simply isn’t the real you. It’s exhausting and you can never really tell if she likes you for the person you are or not.
Just chill out. She’s no doubt as nervous as you are. She’s only human!
[Read: The best ideas to plan a second date she’ll love!]
If you think about it, these are little details that aren’t too hard to follow. So the next time you’re planning a date, keep these first date tips for men in mind.
