Blind Date Tips

Blind dates can be quite exciting, but also a touch riskier than a first date with a person whom you've met previously. With the right attitude, your blind date can be an interesting adventure rather than a stressful ordeal.

While it is important to exercise caution in all types of dating, it’s even more important in blind dating. Odds are you are being set up on this date by a friend, but before you agree to a blind date you should try to get as much info as you can about your date. Ask for as many details about her as you can reasonably expect without pushing too much. If you can, get a general physical description as this is important not only to determine if she is your "type", but also to make her easier to spot when you meet.

When meeting new women for the first time, it's a good idea to use separate vehicles and to meet in a fairly crowded public place, particularly a coffee shop, a restaurant or a mall you usually shop at so you'll be able to exit quickly and easily if you need to. Keep it simple for the first date and plan to meet for a drink or a cup of coffee. Then, if you are both comfortable, you might want to stick around for a meal. On the other hand, if the chemistry is not there, you can end the date after a quick drink and avoid the pressure of a long, awkward evening.

Because a blind date deals with someone who does not know you, it’s important to give her a true sense of yourself. You also want to ensure that you make a good first impression and that you spend time getting to know her. It is important to arrive on time, be polite and show up for the date looking as though you have put a great deal of effort into your appearance.

Ask her open-ended questions to stimulate conversation and to see if there is a mutual interest between the two of you. Ask each other questions about likes and dislikes. Be a good listener to what she has to say and be friendly. Ask her about her interests, her job, where she's traveled, whatever it takes to keep the conversation flowing and don't get on the offensive or defensive side if you hear something you don't like. Yes or no questions will only create uncomfortable silences and leave you frustrated.

By the end of the date, if everything goes well and both of you find a mutual interest, tell her you had a great time and if you'd like to see her again, let her know. If you're clearly not right for each other, be upfront about it, thank her for coming, say goodbye and leave. Don't tell her you'll call her when you know you're not.

Remember, blind dates are touchy and need to be handled carefully. Be open-minded about your blind date and do not expect perfection. 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. Making an honest effort to have a good time can lead to a successful blind date and possibly a second one.