Here’s How to Impress On A First Date And Make a Memorable First Impression
First dates. We’ve all been there, dear reader—those pre-meeting butterflies jumbled with excitement and nervous energy about how to impress on a first date. Thankfully, it boils down to authenticity, preparation, and a dash of flirtatious fun sprinkled on top. The truth is that the best way to impress someone is by being yourself. It might seem overly simple, but it’s true. Trying too hard, pretending to be someone you're not, or scripting everything to sound perfect can backfire if your date feels like you’re not being authentic.
Authenticity stands out because it’s refreshing—and sexy. That said, letting your best self shine through takes a bit more thought than just showing up. You want to leave the person curious, wanting to learn more, and checking their phone for that all-important “So, when can we do this again?” message.
Here’s how to impress on a first date:
Confidence
Confidence is one of the sexiest traits, but be mindful—there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. To come across as confident, keep it cool with body language: sit comfortably, make eye contact, and smile often. It’s your way of signaling comfort, security, and enthusiasm without being clingy.
Listen More Than You Speak
Want to shine and be memorable? Be a great listener. Ask questions that show you're actively engaged in the conversation rather than checking your phone or thinking about your to-do list. Good listening radiates empathy, demonstrates interest, and makes you more attractive. Dear reader, remember that discussing your ex on a first date is a big no-no.
Mind Your Manners, But Don’t Be Stuffy
Good manners go a long way, and I'm not just talking about holding the door. Be courteous about everything from how you speak to the waiter to how you address last-minute plan changes. That said, don't confuse being polite with being boring. You’re not trying to pass an etiquette test, so just let the vibe stay lighthearted and flirty.
Stay Present and Put the Phone Away
We all know how tempting it is to check your phone when you feel it buzzing. But if there’s ever a time to ignore that notification, it’s on a first date. Giving someone your full attention is a nonverbal way of saying, “I’m genuinely enjoying our time together.”
Pro-tip: If you really need to look at your phone because it might be an emergency, be upfront with your date. A quick, “Let me check that, sorry about this!” goes a long way in showing respect for their time.
The most important thing to remember in learning how to impress on a first date is to show up as the best, authentic version of yourself. Confidence paired with genuine interest, great listening skills, and staying present are the things that ultimately leave a great impression.