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First dates can be one of life’s most stressful experiences, as we put our looks, personality and sense of style on the line. We’ve all experienced the classic side effects of first date nerves, be it the sweaty palms, the nervous stammer or the annoying mental blank.

Yet, no matter how nervous we might feel on a first date, there are always some conversation topics and bad behaviours that should be strictly avoided. From awkward innuendos to suggestive staring, here is a countdown of the top ten deadly mistakes that every first date goer should steer well clear of.

1. Arriving late 

It might sound like a simple one to get wrong, but getting there on time is literally the first impression you’ll ever make on your potential future partner. If you show up late to the restaurant, your date will always clock you as a disorganised person, even if it’s on a completely subconscious level.

Of course, there are always going to be circumstances that can hold us up, whether it’s bad traffic or being delayed at work. Be sure to let your date know if you’re going to keep them waiting and make a point of apologising once you arrive.

2. Alcohol

Enjoying a glass of wine with your meal is one thing, but if you find yourself shooting tequilas then it’s safe to say you took a wrong turn somewhere along the line. Limiting your alcohol intake not only stops you making a fool of yourself, it’s also a matter of safety as you get to know this new person.

3. The ex

Under no circumstances is it appropriate to go into a lengthy discussion about your ex girlfriend or boyfriend. It doesn’t matter if they’re relevant to a witty anecdote or if their persistent phone calls are driving you mad, bringing them up is awkward and will probably damage the flow of easy conversation.

Keep in mind that by dropping their name or mentioning your past experiences together, it gives the expression you haven’t got over your old feelings and aren’t ready for a new relationship.

4. The telephone

Whether it’s work calling or your sister checking up on you, turn your phone off and show some basic manners. There’s nothing ruder than writing a text message while your date is trying to get to know you. If you’re waiting on an important phone call, or need to have it switched on in case the kids contact you, then politely explain the situation and keep the phone out of sight and out of mind.

5. Table manners

Licking your knife, belching loudly and picking that niggling piece of spinach from underneath your molar are all sure-fire ways of disgusting your date. If table manners aren’t your forte, try to be on your best behaviour.

This isn’t like the scene in Pretty Woman where the socially unaware, yet beautiful lead star’s lack of cutlery knowledge is seen as sweet and endearing. Bad table manners always leave a lasting impression, so put your elbows down, read up on which fork to use and keep a napkin on hand.

Impressions are important; they leave an initial taste in people’s mouths that can remain prevalent for the entire relationship. It is often said that “the first impression is the last impression” and it rightly holds. If you want to impress someone you get only few minutes to do so. The first meeting and the first few minutes of that meeting does it all. A person can well judge you with your very first appearance or talk with him or her. Building an impression that last long, you have to be really careful. Its based on the impression you create in your bosses minds that many a times you reach heights of success in your organization even when you practically never thought you will. So, how to make a good impression? Here are 10 rules we listed out for you which will help you to create the best impression possible.

1. Don’t try to impress:

This is certainly the first rule to impress a person. Don’t ever try to impress anyone. It reflects in your behaviour. The best way to impress someone is not trying to impress them. People who try too hard to impress will only end up giving an impression that they are showing off. So the main mantra here is, be subtle. Do not over do any act to create an impression. You may soon be a matter of boredom.

2. Be on Time, Be Punctual:

Punctuality is one of the most important elements that contribute towards the building up of a good impression. Being on time is absolutely essential each time every time. Being on time or at least two minute before time for any event or meeting just shows your seriousness. This will help you to impress others big time.

3. Speak less, Speak Sensible:

This is another important aspect which everyone should keep in mind. Speaking sensible and speaking less always helps to build a good impression. If you keep on blabbering and basically half of what you say doesn’t make any sense will not be entertained by people much. It will just fetch you a negative impression and people will least bother to hear you. So be precise on what you say and be sensible.

4. Be Humble:

Humility is the quality of being modest, even politely submissive, and never being arrogant, contemptuous, rude or even self-abasing. This is the best quality any human being can have. Always be humble towards others. Whatever the situation is however big you are or great things you did never be arrogant and never be boastful of your talent. I humble person can win hearts of people at any given situation. When people praise you for a something good you did, be humble and acknowledge the gesture with humility. This will keep you down to earth and you can do even greater things in life as success comes to those who respect success.

5. Keep Smiling:

A smile can win a heart, and it’s absolutely true in impressing people as well. Smile when they say something funny, and speak with a half smile. Smiling is actually very powerful. You can change someone’s whole behaviour towards you simply by flashing a quick innocent smile. What is also important with regards to smile is, don’t over do it. It can have a reverse effect if you continuously keep a grinning face. But then again, a sweet smile can win hearts for you.