A first date doesn’t have to be perfect or follow a script. What really matters is that you feel good and that the other person enjoys their time with you.
It’s not about saying the right thing every time, but about being yourself and paying attention to the little things.
Are you going to ask her out? You need to decide on a place where you can talk quietly without too much noise or distractions.
Arrive on time, look her in the eyes, and listen attentively. Don’t try to impress her; just share who you are and show genuine curiosity to get to know her.
Make her laugh if it comes naturally, choose your words carefully, and don’t force topics. Sometimes a simple conversation creates a much stronger connection than any “strategy.”
In this post you will find a lot of important information to help make your first date a success and make a great first impression.
1. Prior preparation: what makes the difference before leaving
Knowing what to do on a first date starts hours before the meeting. Good preparation reduces nerves and avoids awkward improvisations.
1. Hygiene, outfit and personal care
Impeccable basic hygiene: shower, fresh breath, clean nails, neat hair. These are details that show consideration for the other person.
Clothes that represent you: choose a comfortable outfit that suits your style and the plan (coffee shop, walk, casual restaurant). Avoid clothes that force you to “pose“; if you feel like you’re in costume, it shows.
Layers and weather: Check the forecast and pack a light layer if you’ll be outdoors. Being prepared prevents discomfort.
2. Logistics and times
- Punctuality: Arriving on time shows respect and reduces initial tension.
- Plan A and Plan B: If the place is crowded or the weather changes, have a nearby alternative. Part of what to do on a first date is to anticipate the unexpected.
- Reasonable duration: Plan a date of 60–90 minutes. If there’s chemistry, you can extend it. If there isn’t, no one will be stuck.
3. Mental state
- Realistic expectations: your goal isn’t to “close” anything, but to get to know each other. Take the pressure off and allow for more natural interaction.
- Emotional regulation: deep breathing, calming music, or talking to a friend can help you arrive with a positive attitude.
- Anchor conversation topic: Prepare 3–4 light topics (travel, hobbies, movies, food) to avoid awkward silences.
Practical summary of what to do on a first date before going out: hygiene, comfortable outfit, simple plan, backup plan, and open mind.
2) First few minutes: break the ice naturally
The first 10 minutes set the tone. It’s crucial to remember what to do on a first date to get off to a good start.
a. Body language and greeting
- Smile and gaze : a genuine smile and brief eye contact convey warmth.
- Open posture: relaxed shoulders, uncrossed arms, body facing the other person.
- Comfortable greeting: a clear “hello” and a friendly gesture (handshake or kiss on the cheek, according to local custom) are sufficient.
b. Easy first sentences
- “Thank you for coming, I’m glad we were able to meet.”
- “How was your trip?” / “How was your day?”
Small, everyday phrases break the ice. Part of what to do on a first date is to start simple.
3) Flowing conversation: what to say, what to avoid, and how to delve deeper
Knowing what to do on a first date includes learning how to converse without interrogations or monologues.
a. 50/50 Framework (balance)
- Balanced exchange: speak and listen in equal parts. If you find yourself dominating the conversation, ask an open-ended question.
- Active listening: nod, briefly paraphrase (“So you like it…”), and delve deeper with genuine curiosity.
b. Topics that usually work
- Routines and hobbies: “What do you usually do on weekends?”
- Culture and entertainment: “What series has hooked you lately?”
- Culinary preferences: “Favorite food or trusted little restaurant?”
- Travel and plans: “Is there a place you’re dying to go?”
These topics are at the heart of what to do on a first date: light, universal, and revealing of personality.
c. Topics that can wait
Ex-partners, conflicts, politics or religion (unless both parties approach it with respect and enthusiasm).
- Health and personal finances: these are too intimate to start with.
- Avoiding thorny issues helps maintain a friendly atmosphere.
d. Useful open-ended questions
- “What excites you about your work/study?”
- “What activity relaxes you after a long day?”
- “If you had a perfect day off, what would it be like?”
These questions encourage rich answers without seeming like an interrogation: just what to do on a first date to really get to know each other.
4) How to make someone laugh on a first date (without forcing it)
Many people want to know how to make someone laugh on a first date. The answer is: be authentic.
- Everyday humor: small personal anecdotes (a cute clumsiness, a funny detail of the day).
- Moderate self-humor: laughing tenderly at something you’ve done (not in a hurtful way).
- Momentary observations: a lighthearted comment about the venue’s playlist or the curious name of a drink.
- Avoid sarcasm and mockery: don’t laugh at others or touch on sensitive topics.
- Don’t rehearse jokes: it shows when they’re rehearsed. For a first date, less scripting and more spontaneity.
Example of a light finish:
“I ordered this dessert with a fancy name and now I don’t know whether to take a picture or ask for their ID.”
5) How to impress on your first date
How to impress on your first date isn’t about showing off; it’s about showing interest, consideration, and consistency.
- Courtesy details: ask about preferences, offer water, adjust the chair if appropriate, thank the staff.
- Consistency between what you say and what you do: if you talk about punctuality, arrive on time; if you value kindness, practice it.
- Genuine interest: remember a detail they told you and go back to it (“you mentioned that you paint; what style do you like?”).
- Account management: offers payment or splitting options without making a fuss. Elegance lies in naturalness.
- Friendly closing: If you enjoyed it, say so simply: “I had a great time, I’d love to do it again.”
To impress, as part of what to do on a first date, is to make the other person feel comfortable and valued.
6) Where to go and what to do: plans and activities that help connect
The setting influences the conversation. Choosing the right place is part of what to do on a first date.
1. Classic plans that never fail
- Cafeteria / ice cream parlor: quiet atmosphere, easy to talk; flexible duration.
- Outdoor stroll: park, boardwalk, pretty square; walking relaxes and provides a topic of conversation.
- Casual restaurant: ideal if you share a taste for trying new dishes; avoid very noisy places.
2. Plans with light activity
- Exhibition or museum: provides topics of conversation and natural breaks.
- Bowling alley, mini-golf, board games: dynamic, fun, they foster camaraderie.
- Short class (basic tasting, coffee workshop): shared activity and guaranteed laughter.
3. Original plans (if there is already some trust)
- Picnic: simple, intimate, economical; take care of hygiene and the weather.
- A viewpoint or promenade with a view: perfect for long conversations.
- Short cultural event: local market, fair, small show.
Tip: When considering what to do on a first date, avoid strenuous activities (extreme sports, long walks) or places with “fixed” times (cinema) that limit the initial conversation.
7) Signs of interest: how do I know if he liked me on the first date
One of the most frequent questions, besides what to do on a first date, is how to interpret the other person’s signals.
At the end of the date, we’ve all asked ourselves the same question: “Did they like me or were they just being friendly?”
The truth is, there’s no exact formula, but there are behaviors and attitudes that reveal genuine interest.
The important thing is to observe the whole picture, not just a single isolated gesture.
a. Body language that speaks for itself
The body often speaks louder than words. If during the date you noticed that the person maintained constant eye contact, leaned slightly toward you when you spoke, or smiled frequently, these are signs of comfort and connection.
Also, pay attention to subtle, unconscious reflexes: touching their hair, mirroring your posture, or laughing when you laugh.
These gestures are signs of empathy and emotional synchronicity, and they usually appear when there is genuine attraction or interest.
b. Conversation that flows naturally
Another powerful sign is when the conversation feels light and effortless. If you both share stories, laugh, ask questions with genuine curiosity, and the silences aren’t awkward, it’s a very good sign.
When there’s a connection, time flies and the dialogue flows naturally. That kind of interaction is often the best indicator that something special is developing.
c. Gestures that show an intention to see you again
When the other person mentions future plans, even small ones (“Next time you should try that coffee,” “We could see that movie together”), they’re expressing a desire to stay in touch.
It’s also a good sign if they continue the conversation after the date by texting, writing to you when they get home, or mentioning something related to what you talked about.
These are subtle ways of saying, “I enjoyed being with you and I want to keep getting to know you.”
d. Warm closure and emotional connection
If at the end they suggest walking a little further, try to prolong the moment, or ask about your schedule to see each other again, these are clear signs of interest.
Even a simple “I loved the conversation” or a hug that feels natural says more than any rehearsed line.
When it comes to what to do on a first date, the ending is just as important as the beginning, it leaves a final impression that the other person will remember.
e. And if there were no clear signs, that’s okay.
Not everyone expresses interest in the same way. Some people are more reserved or nervous, and that can make them seem distant when they actually enjoyed the encounter.
If you didn’t see obvious signs, don’t take it as a rejection. Perhaps the connection takes a little longer to develop, or they simply weren’t the right person, and that’s perfectly fine too.
Every date offers learning, confidence, and experience for future dates.
8) Limits, respect and consent: the framework that protects the experience
In any guide on what to do on a first date, there’s one thing that can’t be missing; respect.
It may sound obvious, but in practice, many people forget that behind the nerves and the desire to make a good impression are two human beings who deserve to feel comfortable, safe, and heard.
The perfect date isn’t measured by how many compliments there were or whether it ended in a kiss, but by whether both people felt relaxed, valued, and in control of the situation.
a. Physical contact: consent is essential
Physical contact should be natural and always mutual. If a hand brush, a hug, or a light caress occurs, observe the other person’s reaction. If you notice discomfort or tension, stop.
When it comes to what to do on a first date, the golden rule is clear: if you’re unsure, ask respectfully.
A simple “Is it okay if I give you a hug?” demonstrates emotional maturity and consideration.
It’s not about eliminating spontaneity, but about understanding that consent can also be a form of connection.
When both parties feel safe, the moment becomes more authentic and meaningful.
b. Sensitive topics: tact and empathy
During the conversation, sensitive topics like religion, politics, mental health, or past experiences may come up. It’s perfectly fine to address them, as long as you do so with empathy.
If you sense the other person is uncomfortable, change the subject without minimizing what they said. Something like, “We can talk about something else if you’d prefer,” is sufficient.
What to do on a first date isn’t about avoiding deep topics, but about respecting each other’s emotional boundaries. Everyone shares at their own pace, and that’s perfectly okay.
c. Personal space and time: knowing when to pause
Respecting personal space is one of the greatest signs of good manners and maturity. If you notice signs of tiredness, nervousness, or distraction, don’t pressure them to “extend” the date.
Sometimes, ending the encounter at the right moment leaves a better impression than insisting on prolonging it.
A simple “I had a great time, thank you for your time” said with a smile is worth more than trying to extend something that has already run its natural course.
Remembering this is part of what to do on a first date: respect each other’s pace and let the connection develop naturally.
d. Personal safety: taking care of yourself is also important
No matter how much you trust the other person, safety is always the priority. Choose public places, let a friend or family member know where you’ll be, and if it makes you feel more comfortable, share your location.
Avoid accepting drinks or rides from strangers and maintain your boundaries even if the atmosphere is pleasant.
Protecting yourself won’t ruin the date; on the contrary, it shows you know how to take care of yourself, and that commands respect.
9) Common mistakes: things you shouldn’t do on a first date
Part of understanding what to do on a first date is also knowing what not to do. Often, good intentions are undermined by small oversights that can ruin the chemistry or create the wrong impression.
Recognizing these mistakes will allow you to enjoy the moment more and project a confident and respectful image.
a. Using your cell phone constantly
Having your phone on the table or checking notifications every few minutes can give the impression of disinterest or impatience.
Even if you think it’s a minor thing, the other person might interpret it as a sign that you’d rather be somewhere else.
If you’re expecting an urgent call, mention it casually at the beginning. But generally, it’s best to keep your phone away and give your full attention to the date.
Being present is a simple and powerful way to show respect and connection.
b. Speaking ill of other people
One of the least attractive attitudes is constantly criticizing others: your ex, your boss, or even strangers. This type of comment diminishes empathy and projects negative energy.
When it comes to what to do on a first date, the best advice is to keep the conversation light, friendly, and focused on the two of you.
Speaking well of others or simply avoiding judgment demonstrates maturity and emotional balance.
c. Exaggerating achievements or trying to “sell yourself”
It’s normal to want to make a good impression, but talking too much about your successes or presenting yourself as “perfect” can have the opposite effect. The other person might feel like you’re competing or not being authentic.
Talk about what you’re passionate about, share your goals or interesting anecdotes, but also leave room for humility.
Showing vulnerability or acknowledging human flaws creates much more of a connection than boasting about achievements.
d. Drinking excessively or losing control
A couple of drinks can help you relax, but overdoing it can ruin a promising date.
Drinking too much affects your perception, your words, and your behavior, and can lead you to say or do things you’ll later regret.
If you decide to have a drink, do so in moderation. Staying aware and attentive demonstrates self-control and maturity, qualities that always make a good impression.
e. Forcing intimacy or rushing things
Every relationship has its own rhythm. Trying to force affectionate gestures or physical advances without properly gauging the atmosphere can create discomfort or even rejection.
When it comes to what to do on a first date, it’s important to let trust develop naturally. If there’s chemistry, you’ll notice it without having to force it.
Sometimes, a genuine look or smile is worth much more than any attempt to rush things.
After the appointment: follow-up that adds up
Many believe a good date ends when you say goodbye. In reality, what to do on a first date also includes how to handle the aftermath, the first words you say afterward can solidify (or not) what began that night.
Brief arrival message
The ideal message is simple, genuine, and timely:
“I arrived safely, thank you for the evening. I had a great time.”
“Thank you for your time today, I really enjoyed meeting you.”
The goal: to let them know the date meant something to you. A long text or profound declarations aren’t necessary, especially on the first night.
Specific suggestion (if there was chemistry)
If you sensed mutual interest, make a concrete proposal that involves something they mentioned on the date:
“This Saturday they’re opening a craft fair, would you like to go together?”
“How about we have coffee on Sunday at that place you told me about?”
This concrete approach shows genuine interest and avoids ambiguity. But be aware: if they haven’t responded to your initial message, wait before suggesting anything further.
Space, temperance, and reading signs
If they respond immediately, great. If not, don’t insist. Giving them space shows confidence and makes your interest seem mature.
Don’t bombard them with messages; one good one is worth more than ten desperate ones.
If they respond but don’t suggest anything, you can wait a day or two before suggesting something.
A friendly end (even if it doesn’t continue)
If you notice a lack of reciprocity or decide not to continue after that date, the way you end things also speaks volumes about you:
“Thank you for the evening, it was nice meeting you.”
“I enjoyed this time with you, I wish you all the best.”
A positive closure nurtures your self-esteem and leaves doors open without pressure.
What lies behind “tracking”
The goal is not to “hook” or “force” a second date, but to show interest with respect.
A well-received message can strengthen the connection; an excessive one can cause emotional strain.
Part of what to do on a first date is knowing when to wait, when to act, and when to let go with dignity.
Conclusion
It’s not about having the perfect plan or saying spectacular things. Knowing what to do on a first date is more about being prepared without overdoing it, having a natural conversation, and treating the person in front of you with respect.
Sometimes we think we have to impress, when in reality what makes the biggest impact is simplicity: paying attention, truly listening, and being consistent in what you say and do.
If you had a good time, telling her doesn’t have to be complicated. And if you’d like to see her again, say so clearly. Was there no chemistry? Appreciate the moment and move on. Every little helps.
When you stop seeing the other person as someone who’s there to evaluate you and instead see them simply as someone you’re getting to know, everything becomes lighter.
And ultimately, that’s what it’s all about; being present, being kind, and letting things flow naturally without forcing them.