Romantic Encounter: How to Turn a 1st Date Into Something Wonderful

Make the effort to make a real connection—whether it's your first date or the 45th. Fei Meng

As Valentine’s Day approaches, here are some tips and techniques aimed at making a great connection on a first date—that work equally well for the 45th date, too.

Be Honest

When meeting someone new, there is no excuse to be anything other than 100 percent honest about your age, education, job, or family. Outright lies and half-truths have a way of rising to the surface sooner or later, and once exposed, there’s no way to go back and regain trust.

This requirement of being honest also applies to the chances of the relationship moving forward and evolving. First dates are intended to let each party learn about the other to see if there is interest in moving forward. If one or both sides don’t see a future, be honest so you both can move on.

Have Fun

You can’t connect with someone you can’t hear or see, making a movie a less-than-ideal choice for a first date. Choose a venue that allows you both to talk and laugh. If both parties are having fun, it’s more likely there will be a second date.