1)Don’t assume that the other interested party has read your profile and still has an interest in you. Many just skim over the main points of address, age, and photo without reading the details of what type of person you may be looking for. This can cause an embarrassing situation. It doesn’t hurt to directly ask.

2)Make the person you are about to have a first date with feel that you know something about him or her. This gives a level of being comfortable. Try and pick out something in the profile that perhaps you both may have an interest in. This instantly gives you a point of conversation that is mutual.

3)Pick a place that both of you know or at least is a public place where one can feel at ease. Perhaps a restaurant or coffee house is adequate. If it’s going to be a restaurant make sure the menu is suitable for both. You will regret it if you are eating food you enjoy but your date only likes Chinese or Pasta.

4)What you wear for dress is important. Don’t look like you just got off a bus with torn jeans or t-shirt. You might be more comfortable but you will look like an idiot. If possible mention to your date whether informal clothes are acceptable depending on the place you are meeting.

5)Cell phones are a NO- No. There is nothing more rude than having an interesting conversation interrupted by a cell phone ringing. This is supposed to be a very important time where decisions can change your life. Both of you should be listening to every word the other is saying. Both of you took the time to show up and see what you have in common. Shut off the phone. If you have an emergency call you are expecting, the least you can do is notify your date ahead of time.

6)Be on time and be prompt. This shows respect for your date. It’s a real turn-off if one party has to wait an unreasonable amount of time for you to show up. Perhaps even contact your date a short time before you leave to make sure you are on the same page as time goes. Reliability is a huge issue. Show it and prove it.

7)If both of you feel that you are right for each other and want to start dating seriously, then it is a good gesture to suggest that you both cancel or shut down your profiles on the dating sites where you met. This gives a good impression that you are not going to cheat or seek others while dating and erases any other temptations that might arise.

Don’t get too personal with your prospective mate about finances or bad experiences. This is not the time. Forget about the pension plans, the 401k and savings account. It’s none of your business at this point.

9)This may seem trite but don’t discuss your medicines and problems on your first date. Forget all the dramas. People don’t want to hear them so keep it light. Both of you probably have baggage that neither want to reveal at this time.

Etiquette and common sense will go a long way toward achieving your perfect companion.

© 2009 Senior Dating

Manners Matter