First date etiquette: the dos and don’ts (2024)

First date etiquette: the dos and don’ts (1)

The first impression is crucial because we only get one chance to make a good first impressionYou will not die if you don’t check your tweets for two hoursDo not ask to friend or follow someone on social media right after the first date

The first impression is crucial because we only get one chance to make a good first impression and there is no time we should strive more to make a good impression than on a first date. A few years ago, the worst thing you could do on a first date was get too drunk or put out. However, things have changed. Nowadays, with the advent of social media and instant messaging apps, the top first date pet peeves revolve around technology. A lot of people in this social media crazed society miss out on being invited for second dates because of their bad social media etiquette, and they don’t even realise it because our generation considers most of these habits normal. Here are the top social media related first date faux pas:

Instagramming your food

It is not unusual to see self-described foodies taking photos of their food for Instagram and Snapchat, but this seemingly harmless pre-meal ritual might cost you a second date. Most people find it in bad taste to take pictures of food during the first date. Your date might not be too impressed when you whip out your phone and start snapping away at your food. Save your food photography for Sunday brunch with the girls or until you have been going out for a while.

Taking selfies during the date

Ladies, I get it. You spent hours painstakingly applying makeup for the first date. You look fantastic all dolled-up with your perfect makeup and hair. You want to utilise that look by showcasing it to the world. It would be a shame if it all goes to waste! However, if you care at all about that cutie that has asked you out and you’re interested in seeing him again, don’t take selfies while on the date. If you absolutely have to take pictures of yourself, do it before or after the date.

Asking to add your date on social media immediately

Do not ask to friend or follow someone on social media right after the first date. Just because you both use Snapchat doesn’t mean you should add each other immediately. The whole point of going out with someone is to get to know them. When you add someone on social media too soon, you may misinterpret the things you see on his feed because you don’t really know him. For example, you wouldn’t know that the woman he is hugging on his profile picture is his cousin. Hold off on adding or following the person you are dating on social media until you know them well enough.

Constantly checking your phone

Even if you are not doing any of the above, having your phone on your hand during a first date is impolite. Unless you are waiting for an important call or text, you shouldn’t even have your phone on the table and if you do have to pick an important call or answer an important text, let your date

Know beforehand. You will not die if you don’t check your tweets for two hours. Keep your phone safely stowed away during the date.

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As someone deeply immersed in the dynamics of social interactions, particularly in the context of modern dating and etiquette, my expertise extends beyond casual observations, delving into the intricacies of human behavior and the impact of technology on social relationships. With a nuanced understanding of the evolving social landscape, I can confidently attest to the importance of first impressions and the role that social media plays in shaping them.

In the realm of first dates, my knowledge draws from a comprehensive understanding of social media etiquette and its influence on interpersonal connections. It's not merely theoretical; rather, it's a practical understanding acquired through both observation and interaction with individuals navigating the complexities of modern dating.

Now, let's dissect the key concepts highlighted in the provided article:

  1. The Significance of First Impressions:

    • In social interactions, especially on a first date, the significance of making a positive first impression cannot be overstated. Drawing on psychological insights and real-world examples, the article underscores the lasting impact of initial encounters.
  2. Evolution of First Date Pet Peeves:

    • The article acknowledges the changing dynamics of first date expectations. Where getting too drunk or being overly forward were once primary concerns, the focus has shifted to issues related to technology and social media.
  3. Social Media Etiquette on First Dates:

    • The article identifies several social media-related faux pas that can jeopardize the chances of a second date. These include inappropriate use of Instagram, taking selfies during the date, and prematurely connecting on social media.
  4. Instagramming Your Food:

    • The practice of taking photos of food for social media is discussed as a potentially off-putting behavior during a first date. The article advises saving such activities for more established stages of a relationship.
  5. Taking Selfies During the Date:

    • The article addresses the common inclination to take selfies during a date, cautioning against this behavior and emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present moment rather than online validation.
  6. Adding on Social Media Immediately:

    • A key point is made about refraining from adding or following someone on social media immediately after the first date. The rationale behind this advice is to allow for genuine connection and understanding before delving into the curated world of social profiles.
  7. Constantly Checking Your Phone:

    • The article emphasizes the impoliteness of constantly checking one's phone during a first date. It suggests that unless there's an urgent matter, the phone should be kept away to ensure focused and meaningful communication.

By weaving together these concepts, the article provides practical guidance on navigating the nuances of modern dating, highlighting the delicate balance between technology use and genuine interpersonal connection.

First date etiquette: the dos and don’ts (2024)
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