Tips on How to Start a Conversation on a First Date

First dates are usually pretty stressful events for most people. Individuals usually want to impress this new person they are attracted to and may experience a bit of anxiety before and during a first date.

First date jitters are common and one of the biggest anxiety aspects of a first date is usually the conversation. As people are asking themselves “Will my date like me?” and “What should I wear?”, one of the biggest questions they mostly wonder is “What in the world do we talk about?”

Since most first dates are typically focused on the ‘getting to know you’ period, there is either going to be lots of talking if both people are truly interested or strained conversation if enthusiasm is not so high, or the excitement wanes partially through the date.

If you want to keep conversation flowing and get through any awkward periods, here are a few tips to help you get over the conversation hurdle of a first date:

*Keep it Light

Conversations that are centered on small talk are not only great ice-breakers but they remove the pressure from having to say too much or talk about things that are not known.

Light-hearted conversation is usually a stable starting point for talking during a first date because it doesn’t require any specific knowledge to participate in the discussion. These kinds of conversations are also a good way to get to know one another better and see what kinds of things you might have in common.

*Avoid Tough Topics

Many people are tempted to get into religious or political discussions on a first date. This is most often not a good idea unless both people are not sensitive and can handle a hearty (and potentially heated!) debate if the conversation turns that direction.

Heavy duty romantic topics are also best avoided on a first date; these kinds of discussions can come later if the relationship progresses. You don’t want to scare off a potential new relationship by getting too serious too quickly.

*Personal Background

This is going to vary from individual to individual because some people like to really open up immediately and others like to keep their personal life safeguarded until trust is established.

Depending on how you met this person is a good gauge to decide how much you want to talk about yourself on an initial date.  If you don’t know the person well, you might want to keep your guard up in the beginning for safety’s sake.