A recent survey by Asia’s premiere dating company found that over 90 per cent of Malaysian singles desire to be in a committed relationship. However, despite their interest in finding a long-term partner, nearly 70 per cent of them shared feeling nervous about dating again.
If you’ve long been detached from the dating scene, you might find yourself in a similar situation. You may want to find love, yet you may be feeling anxious about the prospect of dating. If this is true in your case, you may want to muster up courage and get back on the dating scene. After all, it’s only by going out with a potential partner that you can have the chance of building a serious relationship.
6 Proper Dating Etiquette Rules to Guide You on Your First Date
If you need help, you could even consider consulting a dating coach Malaysia singles trust. A dating expert can assist you in overcoming your fears, boosting your confidence, and preparing you for a meaningful relationship. Once you’re ready to mingle and put yourself out there, the next step would be to get ready for your first date. Aside from dressing well and being confident, you might also need to learn proper dating behaviour so you can make a great first impression and increase your chances of securing another invitation. Here are some essential dating etiquette rules that can guide you for a successful first date:
Be Punctual
While it goes without saying that you should arrive on time on your first date (and possible succeeding dates), this rule is worth stressing out in case you’re used to running on “Malaysian time,” a euphemism for arriving late most of the time. Remember, being late is a big deal, as it sends the message that your time is more valuable and you lack respect for the other person’s time. It can also ruin the mood and start the date on the wrong note. For all these reasons, you may want to make an effort to arrive on time. Better yet, arrive a few minutes early so that you have time to freshen up and relax.
Be Present and Be Attentive
Talking about yourself can only get you so far. If you want a fool-proof strategy toward creating a pleasing first impression, consider talking less and paying attention to your date. You may not realize it, but people are naturally drawn to those who make them feel important and interesting. Smile, ask interesting questions, listen attentively, and keep the flow of the conversation going. Aside from making your date comfortable, listening more can help you know the other person well and gauge your compatibility better.
Put Your Smartphone Away
How would you feel if your date kept using their phone in the middle of your conversation? Not good, probably. As such, follow the golden rule, and be considerate of the other person’s feelings. Keep your phone in your bag or pocket and focus on your date. In case you need to answer a particular call, you may want to inform your date about the situation, excuse yourself politely, and keep the phone conversation brief.
Be Mindful of Your Words
The first date is about learning more about the other person, at least on the surface level, and assessing whether there’s a spark between the two of you. As such, you should keep your first meeting light and upbeat. Perhaps you can talk more about what you’ve learned about each other so far if you were matched through a dating app. Hobbies, travel experiences, interests, and favourite things are other great topics that will help you connect and keep the conversation flowing.
Aside from knowing what to talk about, also think about what not to talk about—subjects that could dampen the mood, make the other person feel uncomfortable, or result in a debate. Here are some must-avoid topics on your first date:
- Your Ex
- Politics
- Finances
- Your deepest secrets
- Sexual encounters
- Workplace issues
- Gossips
- Your Medical concerns
- Marriage and Children
