Meeting someone new and going on dates can be an intimidating and stressful experience, but with the right approach, it can also be rewarding and very enjoyable. First impressions go a long way - how you present yourself, verbally and non-verbally, can have a significant impact on a person's perception of you. The following tips will help you make a lasting first impression for a successful fall romance.
Your body language is just as important as what you say. Studies show that between 70% and 93% of our communication is done non-verbally! Pay attention to what you're doing with your body: maintain eye contact with the person, keep your body turned towards them, smile naturally, and show genuine interest in your date. Want to learn other great body language queues? Download my body language guide!
Listen actively. This may seem obvious, but few people manage to do it well. Focus on the person in front of you and avoid distractions. Keep your phone out of sight, ask open-ended questions, rephrase what you're saying, and avoid interrupting. This will show them your interest in getting to know him/her and they will be grateful.
Be yourself. Authenticity is appealing. Don't try to be someone you're not or pretend to like the same things as the other person if it's not true. If you continue to see each other, the truth will come out eventually. Share your interests, passions, and values honestly. After all, don't you want to find someone who appreciates you for who you are?
Ask relevant questions. Go beyond small talk and ask questions that encourage deeper conversations. It's easy to ask about their favorite movie or artist, but the strongest connections are created by asking questions that will successfully stir emotions, for example: "Do you have a dream you would like to achieve?" or “What is one of your fondest childhood memories?”
Finish on a high note. Did you enjoy your conversation and your date? Tell them! You might think it’s obvious but that’s not always the case, don’t leave it to chance and make it extra clear. It's a nice compliment that ends the date well and demonstrates your interest.
Apply these tips on your upcoming dates and watch the difference it can make on your connection.
You got this,
Confidence Coach Marie