Going for a first date has this so-so feeling that gives you jitters and excitement all at once … especially if you’re really looking forward to meeting the could-be-potential-future-bae.
We have all been in a position where the date got awkward or the conversation just wouldn’t flow and the last thing you want is to sit your dolled up self listening to stories about a cat named Pearls or a monologue about exes…God forbid!
If you get cold feet about what to talk about on a first date, here are some ideas on what you can talk about:
1. Start with a compliment
It’s always great to compliment your date. You could mention that the color of his suit is great and the guy could compliment her dress, hairstyle or even the smile. Be sure though not to over compliment as it comes off as ‘trying too hard to impress’ and it makes the person being complimented uncomfortable. Also, when complimented, remember not to self sabotage yourself. Don’t go on about how you thought the dress makes you look fat and all that yada yada simply say “thank you” and smile.
2. Talk about your backgrounds
Talks such as what you studied in university, where you went to university and such make for interesting conversations. It’s interesting to find out why your date studied what they studied and what professions they fancy and why.
3. Hobbies
You could find out what your date loves to do when he/she is free. You’ll get to know if they are intrepid extroverts or introverts and you’ll figure out whether or not the two of you can be compatible enough, should you become an item.
Photo: ElitHeant
4. Travel
Talk about where the two of you have been … tell your date how magical your trip to Lamu was, or how the pyramids in Egypt are really dark inside or how tiring yet rewarding the hike to the Macchu Picchu in Peru is. Travel talk is always interesting. Even if you’re not well traveled, you could talk about your dream destinations and why you hope to visit them one day. Who knows…you could end up checking off that bucket list together in future.
5. Profession talk
Related to number 2, it’s important to find out what your date does for a living. However, don’t spend hours telling your date about your job as a vet and how dissected animal intestines look and what not. Keep it short, simple and interesting and move on to something else.
6. Current affairs
Get the opinion of your date on current affairs. “What do you think about the floods in Nairobi?”. Talk about global warming, talk about the poaching crisis…while at it, careful not to rock the boat and veer off topic by talking about political affairs or touchy subjects like religion…save that for when (and if) you start dating.
7. Share secrets
Ask your date a personal question such as what they are afraid of in life, if they have any regrets, if they had a super power what it would be…etc. You get to know your date on a deeper level by asking a subtle personal question.
8. Redirect questions
Do not spend the whole time while on a date talking about yourself. When your date asks you a question, respond and throw the ball back in their court with another question. “I don’t fancy poetry too much. How about you?”
