subject: The Insiders Secrets To Dating from Get Up and Date [print this page] Simple Tricks for Confident Conversations
No matter how much time you spend on looking good and feeling confident before your date, it can all fall apart when you open your mouth. Maybe you freeze up and can't think of a single thing to say, or you jump right in and talk about anything at all, only to see that "I'm listening politely while hatching my escape plan" look on his face.
Starting a conversation, particularly with someone you don't know very well, can be the most difficult part of a date, but it can also be the simplest way to start a date off right. In today's video blog, I share a couple of tips for getting your head in the right place and having something to say that will start the conversational ball rolling in a positive direction instead of downhill fast.
The best initial conversations are lighthearted and fun. This is not the time to get into a deep philosophical discussion or to go on and on about the many ways your boss drives you nuts. Before the date even starts, do whatever you can to lighten uplisten to a comedian while you're getting ready, play with a pet, or sing along to upbeat musicwhatever works for you.
Then on the date, remember that the key to being memorable is not to talk about yourself. The more questions you ask him, the more he will think you were the most fascinating person he ever met. It seems counter-intuitive, but it's true, and it works every time.
Think in terms of compliments, although keep them sincere. Don't tell him you like his shoes if you think they're hideous. He'll just think you're fake and feel even more on guard rather than more comfortable.
Also plan to ask him questions. You might think of a few before the date if you're the type of person to blank out easily, but try not to fire off too many prepared questions or he'll feel like you're interviewing him. Really listen to what he has to say, comment, then tailor further questions based on what he said. If you keep asking questions from a prepared list, he'll feel like you weren't really listening.
These straightforward tricks really do work wonders in any conversation, and you'll be amazed at how simply being interested makes you interesting.
