Punctuality matters—being 5 minutes late is acceptable, but 10 to 30 minutes late is a major turn-off, especially for men. Dress appropriately to avoid wardrobe malfunctions; women should prefer comfortable dresses and manageable heels, while men should dress neatly. Avoid embarrassment by choosing outfits that don’t reveal too much accidentally. First impressions count, so present yourself well and respect your date’s time to maximize chances of a second date.

Avoid debating or showing off intellectual dominance on the first date—that can repel rather than attract. Focus fully on your date, give them your attention, and don’t get distracted by others around you. For men, looking away from your date to check out others is disrespectful and hurts attraction. Show genuine interest by listening attentively and engaging sincerely to build connection.

Never bring a chaperone—first dates are for the two of you to connect privately. Avoid getting drunk; it impairs judgment and can lead to unsafe situations or bad impressions. Don’t be overly aggressive or jealous; you’re still getting to know each other. But don’t be too passive either—express your feelings and interest clearly, or your date might assume you’re not interested.

Don’t cancel last minute—your date likely invested time preparing. Being unreliable reduces trust and chances for another meeting. Also, avoid dominating the conversation; dating is a mutual exchange. Give your date space to share their stories and experiences. Balancing talking and listening creates a comfortable atmosphere where both feel valued, increasing the likelihood of a successful and enjoyable second date.