What Topics are Appropriate to Talk About on the First Date?

First dates are like first impressions – you only get one time to do it right. When most of us think of the first date, we typically envision a meal or coffee being involved. This type of one-on-one interaction leaves a lot of room for conversation, which, of course, is the whole point. But it’s nerve-racking nonetheless!

Being prepared with some basic conversation topics can really help move a conversation along and reduce the chance of being forced to encounter the dreaded awkward silence. In many ways, the first date is like a job interview. You want the run down – job history, interests, education level, experience, goals and strong points. You have about two hours to get to know as much about this person as possible so maximize every second. Ask a zillion questions if you can, without making your date feel like they are on a job interview.

• “Where did you grow up?”
• “What do you do for fun?”
• “What kind of music do you like?”
• “What’s the last movie you saw in a theater?”
• “What’s your position on the War on Drugs?”

Any question you can think of, ask it! The more you know at the end of the evening, the better equipped you will be to decide if you have to go home and prepare more questions for your second date.