10 Top Dating Tips

It doesn't matter whether you are dating regularly, haven't dated in some time, are a man or a woman, some dating rules apply all the time. A bit like going for a job interview, you should always try and portray yourself in the best possible light, create the right impression and give off the kind of vibes that will make another person think, 'Yes I'd love to see more of them'.

1. General Appearance - Clothes
Always look your best. Smart or casual, you should not look scruffy and unkempt. Buy the best clothes you can afford and don't try to dress to be someone you clearly aren't. Unfortunately, as we get older, we have to change our style to suit our age. That does not mean that we have to look stuffy and starchy, but a suitable outfit for a suitable age speaks volumes about a person.

2. Hair and Personal Hygiene
A good haircut is worth it's weight in gold. Always have a style to suit your age and looks - a good hairdresser will be able to advise you on this. Most importantly have it cut into a style that you can manage to do yourself and is easy to keep up to.

Personal hygiene is an absolute must. I know it might sound obvious, but get into the habit of taking a regular shower and always use a good deodorant and after shave or perfume - something subtle and not over-powering. Both men and women appreciate a nice sweet smelling partner. How often have you caught a whiff of a scent and thought that it reminded you of someone? Be remembered for the right reasons - smell nice!

3. Job
Women especially will take more interest in a man with a steady reliable job. Never pretend to have a position that you don't. You will always get caught out! If you feel that your job is of a mundane nature, look for some of the more interesting factors of it to elaborate on when the topic comes up in conversation. Every occupation plays it's own valuable part in the tapestry of life, so don't ever feel embarrassed by yours.

4. Conversation Topics
Keep up with the news (and not just the sports news, men!) Current affairs and hot topics are always good general conversation areas. Politics and religion are always dangerous grounds to get onto, until you get to know a person and their beliefs better. Watching the news, listening to it on the radio or reading the (quality) newspapers are good ways to do this. There is nothing worse on a date than one person having to try and stimulate the conversation all of the time. Remember, the important way to start any question is in a way that does not allow a simple 'Yes' or No' answer. Try always starting off a question by using: who, what, why, where or when.

5. Manners, Courtesy and Chivalry
There is no excuse for bad manners. Good manners do not cost you anything and say alot about a person. The basis of good manners is to put the other person first. Men, try opening the door for a lady. Pull out her seat at the dinner table to allow her to sit down. Open and close the car door for her. Basic good manners go along way especially with women. Forget the bad language and remember to always use please and thank you. If you are going out for a meal, make sure you know how to use cutlery correctly and in the right order. If you aren't sure, don't be afraid to ask someone beforehand as good table manners create a great first impression.

6. Stop Talking & Start listening
Everyone likes to talk about themselves and what they have done. For once however, shut up, let the other person speak and LISTEN. Remember what they have said and relate back to it at a later point in time. If they have told you the truth, they will be very impressed that you remembered something about them. If they flounder, then perhaps you have caught them out and they may have told a little white lie, which in turn tells you a lot about them. Whatever, a balanced two-way conversation makes for a much more pleasant meeting and is likely to lead to a successful romance or courtship.

7. Smoking
We all know it isn't easy to give up this habit. But, if you are a smoker and your date is not, then please be considerate and avoid smoking if possible. The least you should do is to ask their permission. Best of all though, give up now!

8. Dancing
We are not all budding Fred Astaires or John Travoltas, but don't be afraid to learn. Dancing is great fun, keeps you fit and can be romantic and sexy. Even better, learn together! There is nothing worse than being at a social gathering where one partner is dancing whilst the other is seated looking on.

9. Drinking
We all like a drink to relax and unwind, and social drinking is a great way to spend time with someone. However, remember, it should be just that. Don't drink to excess when you are out on date. Giving someone the impression that you spend all your time in a pub or bar is not going to lay the foundations for a long term relationship. A great alternative for a good time is a coffee bar. Since the tv comedy series 'Friends' hit our screens, coffe shops have become fashionable meeting places and offer a great alternative to noisy pubs and bars without the temptation of the dreaded 'Alcohol'. Make the right impression by drinking in moderation and NEVER drink and drive!

10. Sex
As the saying goes: 'Good things come to he who waits!' Sex is a real no no on a first date. Be patient and wait for the right time and place. A woman will generally find a patient man far more appealing and a man will respect a woman far more for making him wait. Again, 'act in hast and repent at leisure!'