In many ways blind dating is no different than any other type of
dating. The basic elements of dating still exist but you do need to
exercise more caution in a blind date. Like any other date you want a
blind date to go well so that you can ensure yourself a second date.
However, while it is important to exercise caution in all types of
dating it’s even more important in blind dating. Another factor unique
to blind dating is getting set up with a great date. While this may not
always be in your hands there are some ways that you can take some
initiative in this area.
Like any date the key to a blind date is
setting yourself up for a second date. Arranging a fun date and being
interesting to your date are two keys to achieving a second date. In
making conversation on a blind date, it is important to take an interest
in what your date has to say. Doing this will let them know that you
are interested in getting to know them better. Also, try speaking about
subjects that you really enjoy. This will make you not only sound more
natural but will also make you sound more interesting.
Dressing to
impress is also critical to a blind date. In meeting someone for the
first time you will want to ensure that you make a good first
impression. You don’t always know how much a blind date already knows
about you but it doesn’t hurt to show up for the date looking as though
you have put a great deal of effort into your appearance. You’re date
will appreciate the effort and be flattered by your going out of your
way to impress them.
One key factor to blind dating is to exercise
caution in meeting your date. Even if you are being set up by a close
friend you can’t be positive that they know the person they are setting
you up with very well. It’s best to set up an initial meeting in a well
lit and populated location. Never agree to meet someone you don’t know
at a secluded location. While your blind date may be a wonderful person
with no intentions of hurting you, it’s best to exercise caution on a
blind date.
Another factor unique to the blind dating situation is
getting yourself set up with a great date. You may have several friends
that are interested in setting you up with a friend or relative whom
they think is just perfect for you but try not to agree to go on a blind
date that is set up by someone who doesn’t know you very well. If they
don’t know you well, then don’t trust them to choose a date for you.
However, if you have a friend who does know you very well, don’t
hesitate to drop hints about what you are looking for in a date. Those
who know you best are most likely to set you up with a compatible blind
date.
Making an honest effort to have a good time on your date is
another tip that can lead to a successful blind date. If you go into a
blind date with the attitude that things won’t work out, you will most
likely unconsciously put a damper on the date. Your date may sense your
lack of enthusiasm and in turn won’t be inspired to put an effort into
having a good time either.
Another tip for blind dating is to be
sure to end the date appropriately. Many people may recommend that when
going on a blind date you have a backup plan in place such as having a
friend call you shortly after the date starts to give you an excuse to
leave if things aren’t going well but doing this just isn’t right.
Instead extend your blind date the same common courtesy that you would
any other date and be willing to complete the entire date. If neither
party is having a good time, it’s acceptable to end the date early and
just agree that you weren’t compatible but don’t be too quick to give up
on the date. Also, at the conclusion of the date be honest about your
feelings towards your date. If things just didn’t work out, don’t be
afraid to let them know instead of offering empty promises of future
dates. However, if you truly enjoyed your date, let your partner know
and take the opportunity to suggest a second date.
Bringing a
friend along is another tip for blind dating. This is helpful for a
couple of reasons. First if your blind date had any malicious intentions
towards you, having a friend along is likely to spoil his plan.
Secondly a friend may be able to ease the tension and break the ice by
getting the conversation started. While the addition of an extra person
on a date may seem awkward, having them there can provide emotional
spirit and an additional comfort level.
Even if the date is going
well, another tip for blind dating is to end the date after 2-3 hours.
This is an adequate amount of time for two people to get to know each
other on a date and determine whether or not they would be interested in
a second date. Blind dates that last longer than this often reach a
point where the couple runs out of things to talk about and the date can
stagnate leaving a negative feeling at the end of the date. Keeping the
date short can help you to end the date on a positive note and will
leave you with more to talk about on a second date.
Being yourself
is important on any date but it’s critical on a blind date. A blind
date deals with someone who does not know you so it’s important to give
them a true sense of yourself on your date. You may get away with
pretending to be something you are not on the first date but it may lead
to trouble in future dates as your date realizes you were phoney on the
first date.
Finally, treat your blind date with the same courtesy
that you would any other date. You may not know the person you are
dating but it is important to arrive on time, be polite and put an
honest effort into the date. Your blind date is just as deserving of
these courtesies as any other person you have dated. A blind date is no
excuse to let your manners lapse and mistreat your date.
For the
most part blind dating does not differ from any other dating situation.
However, there are a few things unique to blind dating of which you
should be aware. Most importantly it is critical that you not put
yourself in danger by agreeing to meet a blind date in a secluded
location. Another unique aspect of the blind date is that you are often
set up by a friend or family member so you have the opportunity to learn
what they think would be a suitable match for you. Beyond the specifics
related to blind dating, the rules of regular dating still hold true.
If you are polite, genuine, fun and interested in your date you will be
likely to score a second date.