First dates are always stressful. Whether you are looking for The One or just trying to get in her pants, you need to make the right impression. Wearing the right clothes, making the right dinner choices, smelling the right way…there are a lot of variables that can determine whether you secure a second date, take her home, or get a flimsy excuse about her dog being sick and a phone number with six digits. The only advantage you have in this position is that she is likely also very nervous and worrying about the same things, so any faux pas you may commit could be overlooked. No matter the situation, however, conversation has to go smoothly throughout the evening. That means no lengthy awkward pauses and saying all of the right things. At the very least, don’t say any of the following if you want to ever see her again.
 

5. “You look really nice tonight.”

Just like you, your date probably spent a considerable chunk of time choosing her outfit, fixing her hair and makeup, and generally aiming to wow you when you see her tonight. When they put in so much effort to look sexy, giving a generic compliment like “nice” or “pretty” does little to boost her self-esteem. You use “nice” to describe the cashier at the bank, not your date and possible future sex partner. Here is some tips for getting lucky on the 1st date. Use specifics when you compliment her, and show her that you notice the extra effort she put in. Also, many guys are afraid to use the word “sexy” on the first date, thinking it’s too forward, but that’s exactly what she’s aiming for!
 

4. “My ex and I used to came here.”

Mentioning anything about your ex or past flings during the first date is a risky move, and is generally best avoided. You are trying to start something new here, and commenting on your ex-girlfriend will make your date think one of two things: either you’re comparing this girl to your ex, or you still miss your ex. Either way, she probably doesn’t want to hear it. Don’t be that guy.
 

3. “Do you want kids?”

If you’re the kind of guy who is looking for your future wife, then you should definitely ask these questions to any woman you think could be The One. That being said, the first date is definitely NOT the time to ask your date if she wants kids. Leave personal questions like this for future dates and deeper conversations. This includes talking about marriage and emotional topics like her mother’s relentless battle with cancer and how it makes her feel. Keep the first date light and get to know each other on a surface level before diving in deep and seeing if she is the girl you marry.

2. “I’m nervous.”

No matter what age, gender, or race you are, everyone finds confidence sexy. Being brash or arrogant goes too far in the opposite direction, but you never want to admit to your date that you’re nervous. Of course you’re a little nervous. She is too. Fighting the urge to show it, however, can go a long way in having a successful first date and agreeing to a second one. You want to give the impression that you are comfortable in your skin because that helps her relax as well. Dates are meant to be fun social experiences, and admitting to having nerves will quickly break the spell. Here are some tips for staying calm on your first date.
 

1. “Want to come back to my place?”

Remember when I said that being brash was too far on the opposite side of the line from confident? It’s a couple lines up, refresh your memory. I’ll wait…. The point is that, even if this date is a hookup and not necessary to find a girlfriend, you don’t want to be that guy expecting too much after dinner and a movie. No matter what, she doesn’t owe you anything, so don’t be presumptuous. If you both tacitly agree that tonight is about getting laid and not about bringing someone home to Mom and Dad, take your cues from her. Bring her back to her place, kiss her before you leave, and see if she offers to bring you to her place (or to see your place). If you really like this girl and are hoping for a second date, then you definitely don’t want to say something like this. For decades, the rule has been to wait a few dates before jumping into bed together, and for good reason. You don’t have to wait months or years, but not going all the way on the first night will actually strengthen your relationship in the future. The build-up is that much sweeter if you really like her.