Dating Tales

First date conversation can be painful, awkward, and superficial. Not everyone is a born conversationalist so a little bit of practice and research can go a long way. Think the Bridget Jones’ Diary scene where she practices pronouncing Chechnya.

Don’t forget the basics, of course, like schooling, hobbies, family composition, books, movies, etc., but to make that first date conversation flow here are a few other tips.

Listen to what your date is saying

The greatest conversation sources are waiting for you to jump on them. Just listen for follow up question openings and thenfollow up! For instance, your date tells you about his childhood in Albany and since you’ve never been there you ask more about the city, state, region. If you have been there, ask for more information on what you didn’t or did see.

Find offbeat news

Great sources of interesting conversation topics surely to entertain most of us can be found on Best-of-Craigslist, popular picks on Digg.com, and CNN’s Funny News. To fill up those lulls in the conversation, get a quick read on the internet that day so you’re prepared with a few stories.

Research your date’s interests

Find out from the friend that set you up, his profile, or on the phone before you meet what his interests are. This way you can research beforehand and come up with intelligent questions to ask on the date. He’ll be impressed.

Looking at your nightstand

Think about the book that’s currently on your night stand, the CD that’s playing in your car, the last vacation you took and be prepared for the questions you’ll be asked. Just like you, your date is preparing. In other words, you should be able to answer every question you ask your date.

Jokes: Tell a few

Don’t start now if you rarely tell jokes. But if you know you’re funny and your friends normally laugh at your jokes, you’re probably safe.

Avoiding these things

The ol’ saying that politics and religion shouldn’t be talked about in mixed company stands true for first dates too. Although these are things important in deciding on your mate, it’s a great way to scare someone off before they get to know you well.