One of the most common things we hear from guys (and girls too!), is that they get SO NERVOUS before a first date that they can’t even see straight, let alone make a great first impression. Nerves and anxiety abound when making the leap from an online chat; or phone relationship to a real life dating scenario. We psyche ourselves out and play the worst case scenarios over and over in our head until we go insane… well, have no fear! We are here to help settle those nerves and give you a few choice tips to leave a great first impression.

Have a plan
How well you’ve planned your date is the first indication of your interest level. If you leave the planning up to her, she might feel like she’s just taking a number, and you don’t care enough to put any effort in. But also be careful not to over-plan as it might seem like you’re trying too hard (women love a man who can be spontaneous, so don’t worry if you’re a few minutes late to dinner because she wants to get a caricature drawn in the park).

Dress appropriately
You don’t need to put on a suit to head down to the local bar, but make sure that whatever you are wearing is clean, well-pressed and seasonally suitable. Also, remember to take off your hat and coat when sitting down. Keeping it on signals that you’re antsy and in a hurry to get out of there, which will make her feel uncomfortable.

Chivalry
Hold doors open, pull her chair out, take her coat and hang it up. Being a gentleman is really that simple. Also, try to keep good posture when sitting across from her at the table, and don’t talk with your mouth full!

Ask questions
Showing interest in your date will make her feel special and will give you big points down the road. Be keen to learn about her interests, what she does for work, whether or not she enjoys it and what some of her goals are. Be careful when it comes to topics such as exes, religion and politics.

Pick up the tab
And don’t let her split it even if she offers. Take her somewhere in your price range, you’re not impressing her by taking her to the fanciest restaurant in town. If anything it might make her feel uncomfortable. Make your first date somewhere more casual and show her that she’s worth it by paying for the whole bill. If she’s insistent on going dutch, tell her next time, it’s her turn.