A wise man once said that the way something starts often is a prediction of how it will continue to be. Perhaps that’s why so many of us single folks long for great first dates. There really is nothing like meeting up with someone, having an immediate chemistry, going to a place that both of you like and then never wanting the date to end. *sigh*
There are certainly all kinds of scenarios that can lead to a great first date (meeting someone on your own, using an online dating service, testing out a matchmaking company like Tawkify). Unfortunately though, there are a lot of people who end up being so caught up in the euphoria of the experience that they don’t take advantage of the crucial and fragile time following their first date. They overlook things that they should do in order to insure that a second (and hopefully second, third and fourth) date will soon follow.
So, just what is the follow-up etiquette after an amazing first date? Good question. Although there are all kinds of things that you could do, here are five that should definitely go on the very top of your list.
Mention a second date---on the first date. If you’re having a great time, what’s the point in keeping that to yourself? Towards the end of the date, it’s perfectly fine (encouraged even) to say “I hope we can do this again sometime” or “Next time let’s try going to so-and-so.” That let’s your date know that they’re definitely on your radar; that going on a second date is something that you’re definitely interested in doing.
Get their contact information. Does that sound obvious? Yeah, you’d be surprised how many people miss the obvious sometimes. Being that a lot of us are much more tech-savvy than the generations before us, not everyone talks on the phone before going on a first date. Say for instance that you met via one of your social media accounts and everything was via email. Once you’ve met and had a great date, it’s then time to take things up a notch. Getting each other’s phone numbers or asking for another way to get in contact with your date sends the message that you want to get to know them better. And them giving the info to you lets you know that they feel the same way.
Don’t be physically closed off. A professional matchmaker is probably going to recommend that you pump the brakes when it comes to physical intimacy. No matter how good a first date is, you still need more time to get to know someone better before giving up the goods. But that doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with extending a hug or kiss on the cheek. It helps to break down any potential barriers. It’s a way of conveying warmth and interest without overdoing it.
Leave a message or send a text that same day. OK, all of that “I don’t want to seem too eager” crap usually tends to backfire. No one is saying to call them 10 times on your way home (that’s a stalker and no one likes them). However, it’s both thoughtful and proactive (proactive is big with the ladies, guys) to leave a voice mail or shoot a text that says “I had a great time on our date. I’m looking forward to seeing you again.” It only takes a second and it’s time well spent.
Call within the week. Another mistake that first daters make? Playing the perpetual waiting game. You know: “He should call me first” or “If she’s interested, she’ll call.” Stop it! Just pick up the phone and call. If they’re still interested, you’re that much closer to your second date. If they’re not, well, making the call will let you know that sooner than later. This means you can---and should---move on. Either way, it didn’t take a month to find out what you needed to know. You are able to confidently take the next step in less than a week. Awesome, right? Right.
Curious about Tawkify? Use the promo code etiquette20 for 20% off your membership if you decide to try it today. C'mon, what you got to lose?