Always Be On Time(01 of18)
Open Image ModalPlan Ahead (02 of18)
Open Image ModalBefore the big date, a little preparation will help you appear calm, confident and composed, no matter how anxious you actually are. Think of interesting discussion topics, brush up on current events or have general questions in mind about your date's hobbies and interests. "Stay away from controversial topics including politics and religion, until you get to know each other better," she says. (credit:Blend Images/Hill Street Studios via Getty Images)
Do Your Homework (03 of18)
Open Image ModalIt takes work to make a romantic evening appear incredibly effortless. If you want to guarantee a great first impression, research the location or venue first, Whitmore says. For example, if you plan to take your date to a restaurant, go online and familiarize yourself with the menu and read reviews. (credit:Nicole White via Getty Images)
Pay Upfront (04 of18)
Open Image ModalThe person who does the inviting is responsible for paying unless you both agree ahead of time to split the check, Whitmore says. If you're at a restaurant, take care of the check away from the table if you want to appear savvy and sophisticated ... or if you want to use a coupon. Plan to give your credit card and any coupons to your server before your date arrives, or excuse yourself during the dessert course to pay. (credit:AIMSTOCK via Getty Images)
Dress To Impress(05 of18)
Open Image Modal"You’re more likely to make a great first impression if you appear well-dressed and put together," Whitmore says. When you're choosing an outfit, make sure it's appropriate for the date — if you're going to the park or rock climbing, you should probably avoid heels or dress shoes. (credit:Lawren via Getty Images)
Great Your Date Warmly(06 of18)
Open Image ModalA firm handshake or even a hug is the most appropriate way to greet your date when you first meet, Whitmore says. "Your greeting should be warm, friendly and sincere. Remember to make eye contact and smile." She also adds a handshake that is too firm or too weak may give off a negative impression. Also, if you’re seated when your date arrives, stand up and say, 'hello.' "Standing shows respect for your date and for yourself." (credit:Bloom Productions via Getty Images)
Be An Attentive Listener (07 of18)
Open Image Modal"A good conversation is like a tennis match. It only works when you hit the ball in the other person’s court," Whitmore says. Try to focus more on your date and less on yourself —you’ll impress your date if you show you’re fully engaged, listen, and ask pertinent questions, she adds. This type of attentive listening builds trust and almost always guarantees a second date. (credit:Image Source via Getty Images)
Focus On The Positives In Life(08 of18)
Open Image ModalYou may be going through a rough patch at work or with your personal life, but your date doesn't need to be burdened by your troubles. "Instead of focusing on your money problems, illnesses, disgusting co-workers or irritating family members (or ex-family members), keep the conversation light and upbeat," Whitmore says. (credit:ZoneCreative via Getty Images)
Keep Your Wandering Eyes To Yourself(09 of18)
Open Image ModalDistractions, distractions, distractions! Give your date your undivided attention and don’t look around the room at other people or those you think might be more interesting or .. attractive. "Good eye contact conveys that you’re listening and that the other person is important to you," she adds. (credit:Gary John Norman via Getty Images)
Mind Your Table Manners(10 of18)
Open Image ModalNo one likes to date a barbarian or someone who chews with their mouth open. "Stay away from messy foods including barbecue ribs, chicken wings, double-decker sandwiches, or foods smothered with sauces," she says. Choose foods that are easy to eat and try to slow down if you tend to eat too quickly. (credit:Marcelo Santos via Getty Images)
Don't Drink Too Much(11 of18)
Open Image ModalRemember, this is a first date, don't overdo it. "As the old saying goes, 'loose lips sink ships.' If you drink too much alcohol you could come on too strong or worse, say something you might regret saying the next day," Whitmore adds. (credit:Nicolas Wayne via Getty Images)
Don't Talk About Your Exes(12 of18)
Open Image ModalThe first date is never a good time to bring up your ex. "It’s best not to talk about the 'one that got away' or those people you chose to let go." Appreciate your date’s uniqueness and don’t compare him or her to other dates. (credit:Eric Audras via Getty Images)
Be All There(13 of18)
Open Image ModalPut away your phone — talking or texting during the date is a clear indication your mind is somewhere else (unless, of course, you're dealing with an emergency). If you can, keep your phone out of sight, on silent mode, and give your date your undivided attention. (credit:Betsie Van Der Meer via Getty Images)
Honour Your Date's Privacy (14 of18)
Open Image ModalAlways ask before taking your date’s photo or even a selfie with them. If your date doesn't mind, remember not to share the photos on social media pages without his or her permission. (credit:Cavan Images via Getty Images)
Apologize If You Need To (15 of18)
Open Image ModalIf you wind up talking about yourself too much, drinking too much, or saying the wrong thing, rectify the situation and apologize the next day, Whitmore says. "Your date may or may not forgive you, but at least you can feel good knowing that you tried to make amends." (credit:Ghislain & Marie David de Lossy via Getty Images)
Have An Exit Strategy (16 of18)
Open Image ModalIf the date sucks, make sure you have an exit strategy. Sometimes people can get nervous, and other times, your date may not be the person you expected. "Ask a friend to call you at a certain time to see how things are going. Excuse yourself and go to the restroom to take the call. Tell your date that you’ve just received a phone call from a friend who needs your help and you’re going to have to call it a night." Don't ever leave abruptly. (credit:Image Source via Getty Images)
End Your Date Gracefully (17 of18)
Open Image ModalWhether you decide to kiss, hug, shake hands or invite your date to spend the night, it’s best to leave your date with a good impression. Be on your best behaviour and treat the other person the way you would like to be treated — who knows, you may just get a second date. (credit:Tim Kitchen via Getty Images)
Express Your Gratitude.. At The Right Time (18 of18)
Open Image ModalIf you’ve had a good time, thank your date verbally or send them a thank you note or text the next day. "If you have no interest in going on a second date, don’t hint that a second date is a possibility," Whitmore adds. (credit:Stefanie Grewel via Getty Images)