5 Tips For A Succesful First Date
Good news!
Everyone is making the same dating mistakes and they are fixable!
With these 5 tips!
I have been coaching daters for almost 20 years now and a few simple changes in dating policies make dating safer, more fun and more fruitful.
Are you following these rules of the road?
(If you are not dating right now, share this with someone who is!)
1. Have a video chat first to make sure the chemistry is there.
When you see someone on screen you can learn about the level of attraction both ways before you commit to the time and money of a date! The same cannot be said for photos and texting-not reliable gauges, sorry! More sales pitch for video chats here.
2. Ask for exactly what you want-coffee, tea, smoothie, drink?
The first date needs to be short so you can get out fast if it’s not a match but extendable if it’s going well. It's a great chance to be yourself–are you a coffee, team, smoothie or alcohol person? Ask for what you want at the very start and find out what they like too!
3. Pick a quiet public location to meet.
You must stay safe by meeting in public for at least the first three dates–body safe and hearing safe! Furthermore, your goal is to really get to know the person, so pick a purposely quiet place. The last thing you want is to be screaming over loud music or pushing through crowds.
4. Pre-plan great questions and be ready to answer them too.
Remember your primary goal is to really get to know the person and have them get to know you so come armed with interesting questions (never yes or no questions) about things you are interested in. More on the best questions to ask of dates here.
5. Do not speak negatively about yourself, your work, your exes. Focus on the positives.
People are generally not attracted to negativity so steer clear of it (incidentally, this also applies to job interviews). Everyone has had bad things happen and everyone has bad qualities but the aspects to discuss on a first date are your learnings and evolution as a result, ONLY. Negativity, even when justified, sabotages your chances of success here.
Want to Nail That First Date? Follow These Proven Tips
The first date sets the tone. My free training will help you show up with clarity, confidence, and connection—so you can spot real potential faster.
✅ Learn how to pre-screen dates for chemistry and safety
✅ Get conversation tips that build connection, not awkwardness
✅ Avoid the most common first-date mistakes that kill momentum
Frequently Asked Questions about Having a Successful First Date
1. Why do you recommend a video chat before the first date?
Because photos and texting don’t tell the whole story. A quick video call helps you gauge chemistry, vibe, and availability—so you’re not wasting time or energy on someone who isn’t a match.
2. How long should a first date be?
Keep it short and sweet—about 60–90 minutes. You want to leave room to be pleasantly surprised without getting stuck if it’s clearly not a fit. A coffee, tea, or quick drink date is perfect.
3. Why is choosing a quiet public spot so important?
Safety and comfort come first, especially early on. A quiet, public place allows you to focus on your date and have a real conversation—without shouting over music or navigating sketchy vibes.
4. What kinds of questions should I ask on a first date?
Ask open-ended, curiosity-driven questions like “What’s something you’re really proud of lately?” or “What’s your favorite way to spend a Sunday?” Avoid yes/no questions and don’t interrogate—just aim to connect.
5. What if I’ve had a hard past—should I hide that?
No need to hide, but you do need to filter. The first date is not the time to vent about your ex or your job. Focus on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown—that’s what draws the right people in.
