1. Dress appropriately. I know it may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at how some people overlook the chance to make a great first impression. Make sure that you’re dressed for the occasion. Men: Be clean shaven and have a recent hair cut. If you don’t have much hair, don’t fake it, have it cut neatly or even shaved. Women: Don’t overdress, and light on the makeup.
2. Be ambitious. Know ahead of time how you’ll express your life’s goals to your date. That doesn’t mean that you have to be the president of your own company and a rock climber. What she or he is most likely looking for is someone who provides for themselves and has goals and dreams. Actually guys, you’ll notice that most women certainly have goals and dreams. It may be going back to school or starting a family in the next few years. They generally have an idea of how they plan their lives to unfold.
3. Unless you want a party girl or guy don’t brag about nights of drinking and partying. It’s better to come off as interesting and balanced. If you come off as enjoying wild nights of partying, it might be a turn off. You might be typecast into an undisciplined partier, or worse a slacker!
4. Be in the know. Make sure you’re up-to- date with current affairs. Be aware of what’s going on in the world around you.
5. Treat her respectfully. Open the door. Listen politely. Be sensitive as to where she wants to go. Look interested. Don’t go on and on about stories pertaining to yourself. Also, it’s very important that you’re on time when going on a date. This shows basic respect.
6. Do something special. You can stand out in your date’s mind by doing a little different. It doesn’t have to be anything huge. The goal is to be memorable. For example, do a little research before hand and find out their favorite restaurant or hobby. Or you could do something unique, for example go on a ferry ride or to the planetarium.
7. Carefully interweave talking and listening. This is the true secret of a great conversationalist. Start conversations and keep them going by playing off of what he or she says.
8. Be yourself. Don't try to be somebody you're not. Don't pretend you're a big time partier, lady’s man or world traveler if you're not. People in general cannot stand phonies.
9. Have a list of conversation starters ready to go. By knowing ahead of time what you’ll talk about, you’re sure to ward off a lot of anxiety that would otherwise creep in.
10.Reduce anxiety. For me, exercise puts me in a great state of mind. Exercise melts away stress, increases energy and there is a general feeling of well being. Try it before going out on a date, especially if you get particularly nervous and tense. It can really work wonders for the nerves.