Some people enjoy dating. Others hate it. But here's one thing everyone can agree on: dating and meeting new people is an ESSENTIAL element in finding your special someone. And like most things in life, you'll enjoy dating more (and get better results) if you feel like you are "good" at it. Here are some quick and easy tips to help you become a dating expert:
  1. Be focused: avoid the lure of free dating sites or singles bars, your best bet is to go on quality dates with compatible singles.  You'll be better off going on one or two quality dates per month rather than five bad ones.
  2. Be serious: dating can and should be fun, but show your date that you are serious and not just looking for a casual hook-up. The people you meet who are the highest potential will likely demand nothing less.
  3. Be positive: complaining about your prior bad dates will virtually guarantee that your bad dating luck continues. Everyone wants to be with somebody positive, so come prepared with some fun, light and positive topics to discuss on your date.
  4. Dress for success: ball gowns and tuxedos are not required, but making an effort to look your best on a date helps make a great first impression. And yes, in dating as in life first impressions matter.
  5. Be on time: aim to arrive on time or, even better, a bit early for your date. Besides showing respect for your date, it'll also help you relax and feel more comfortable and natural.
  6. Turn off your phone: if you are serious about finding someone, then your messages can wait until after your date. Answering messages or texting during a date is one of the quickest ways to turn your date off.
  7. Be interesting: come prepared with some fun and light conversation topics; expect that you'll need to carry the conversation for the first bit until your date gets 'warmed up'. The first 5 or 10 minutes of a date are probably the most important so be ready for it.
  8. Be interested: pay attention to your date and practise 'active listening'. Aim to spend roughly half the time talking and half the time listening.
  9. Don't hesitate: if you feel like things are going well on your date, ask for a second date. There is no rule that says you have to wait; your best chance of getting a second date is likely during a positive first date.
  10. Follow up and follow through: if you say you'll call, then call. In any case, a nice follow up call or message thanking your date for a nice time is always welcome. Remember, treating people with respect means they'll think and speak positively about you even if the romantic connection wasn't there.