How should you behave on a first date if you met online? Experts from the dating service “Mamba” share their advice!
Sometimes, the future of a relationship and perhaps even a life together depends on how that first date with a man goes. Even if you’ve been on thirty-three dates before, you’re bound to feel a bit nervous, so here are ten tips from the experts at Mamba. With over a million users connecting on the app every day, who better to share the secrets to a great first meeting?
Tip number one. It’s generally expected that the man should extend the invitation—after all, making decisions and taking responsibility for them is often seen as the prerogative of the “stronger sex.” So, don’t rush to set up the date yourself; instead, flirt, drop hints, upload some alluring new photos to your Mamba profile, and compliment his sense of humor or his appearance. A date won’t be long in coming.
Tip number two. Even the wealthiest men often choose neutral locations for a first date—partly to see if a woman is overly focused on his financial status. If he suggests a casual café, don’t push for an expensive, high-end restaurant. The main goal is to see if you enjoy each other’s company; there will be plenty of time later to gauge his income.
Tip number three. According to Mamba’s data, women often overuse beauty filters, which can lead to a surprise for men when they realize the woman looks a bit different in person. Try to get a good night’s sleep before the date, opt for subtle makeup, and keep a positive mindset. Even if the photos on your profile are from four years ago, a sense of inner harmony and a charming smile will go a long way.
Tip number four. Don’t use him as a shoulder to cry on! It’s true that most of us have had our share of unsuccessful relationships, and it’s often the desire to find “the one” that brings us to dating sites. But the past is the past! There’s no need to talk about your exes—and certainly don’t badmouth them—as this might trigger a sense of male solidarity, and that date could well be your last.
Tip number five. Turn off your mobile phone! Your best friend can wait—you can tell her all about what he looks like and how the date went later. Facebook can wait, too, and you should also put that other suitor you met on a dating site on hold for now.
Tip number six. Because there are so many users on dating apps, both men and women can sometimes get exhausted by dates that lead nowhere. As a result, some people you meet online might start pushing for sex before you’ve even gone on a date. It’s a good idea to set clear personal boundaries during your messaging—let them know that you’ll decide how things progress once you actually meet. After all, who knows if you’ll even hit it off? You might find yourself completely swept away by his charisma and sex appeal—or, conversely, you might find yourself walking out before you’ve even finished your coffee. Don’t make any promises!
Tip number seven. Show genuine interest in him and his life; ask questions, listen, and offer admiration. Men love talking about themselves and their hobbies. Show him that, as far as you’re concerned, there’s nothing more fascinating or exciting than, say, superbike racing! By the way, it wouldn’t hurt to check out his profile on a site like Mamba and do a little online research beforehand—it’ll help you make a good impression.
Tip number eight: Gifts and finances. Since you don’t know him well yet, it’s best to mention that you don’t accept expensive gifts on a first date; this way, you won’t feel obligated. A simple bouquet is the perfect choice for the start of a relationship. As for who pays for coffee or dinner, there’s an unwritten rule: the person who extends the invitation pays.
Tip number nine: Give him a chance to be a gentleman. Women today are quite independent, and that has an impact on how men behave. Let him open doors for you, help you with your coat, or walk you to your car or the metro.
Tip number ten: Should you be the first to reach out after a date? If you really liked him, send him a message once you get home—tell him you had a wonderful time, enjoyed everything, and think he’s great! Then, take a step back; if you made an impression, he’ll reach out on his own, and very quickly, too. And if he doesn’t? Don’t be discouraged! The more dates you go on, the better they tend to go. Besides, there are millions of men on sites like Mamba—you’ve got plenty of options!
