How to Start a Conversation with a Blind Date
Confidence and Common Sense Can Make Blind Dating Easier
For shy individuals, starting a conversation with somebody they have never met can be terrifying. It goes without saying everyone wants to make a great impression, but how is this done? It's simple, and once it gets going the stress and anxiety will disappear. This article will look at how to get the attention of a blind date, keep it, and maintain a conversation.
How to Break the Ice
Some ideas to get the words flowing include things like the weather. While it's true that this topic may seem tired and clichéd, it's something that can be discussed for at least a few minutes. If something really big has happened, like a hurricane, tornado or a severe blizzard these can kick start a conversation.
If your mind suddenly goes blank, don't worry. Focusing on the fact that you've got nothing to say will make you tense. Starting with something too clever or intellectual could stump the person you're with, and he/she might not be able to come up with a response. Instead, start with some open-ended questions. This will get her to say something more than just a yes or a no. Ask about how her day at work went. It will show you are interested in her and what she does.
Talking About More Substantial Topics
Congratulations, you've broken the ice and gotten past the first awkward stage! Now that the conversation is moving in another direction more detailed questions can be asked about a wider variety of topics. End statements with questions, and give your date a chance to pick up where you left off. Giving compliments to your date is a sure fire way to make him/her more comfortable, but don't forget to ask a question. For example, if you say "I like your shoes," your date will likely answer with "Thank you." Then it will be all over. If you ask them where the shoes were bought and when, the conversation will flow more easily.
Easy and interesting topics include the following:
- Jobs
- Travel
- Cooking
- Sports
- Current events (if you can easily discuss what's going on in the world, you will seem interested and interesting).
- Movies and television
Stay away from any of these:
- Religion
- Politics
- Money
- Past relationship failures
- Any kinds of dark or creepy topics like terrorism or serial killers.
The first three topics in the second column more often than not will divide people, not bring them together. Also, use caution when asking about your date's family. If any hint of estrangement or bitterness comes to the surface, quickly talk about something else.
Some Other Helpful Tips
Be a good listener. This means more than just waiting for a chance to speak. If your date went well, at the end of the night thank him/her for a great time and offer to call sometime in the next few days to arrange a second outing, but don't sound too eager. If it didn't go well, thank your date anyway and be polite.
Getting to Know Each Other
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Partners & Parents
Latest Articles