The thing about real-life, first-time romantic encounters is that they don’t have a “redo” button. Just like in a court of law, everything you say can and will be used against you. So if you fall prey to a serious case of Cady Herron proclaimed “word vomit,” you’re a goner.
Collegiettes, we meet new people all the time, every day, in surprising places. Even on Wake’s small campus, we’re constantly making first impressions. The exciting thing is that you never know if that new person you just met will be your next BF. Personally, I’m a big believer in the “everything happens for a reason” motto. Yes, I know it’s cheesy, but it means each person in your life enters it for a reason.
To prevent a social faux pas from interfering with your next possible romantic endeavor, I’m here to give a few tips. Below is what not to say during your first few conversations with a guy you’ve known for five minutes, five hours or even five days. Whether you’re at Village Tavern, at a party, or in the Pit, avoid these topics at all costs.
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1. Do not ask him the who/what/where/when or whys about the last person he dated. Trust me, just don’t. No one wants to talk about his or her last relationship. There is a reason that thing is dead and gone.
2. Do not ask him why he is single. It’s just awkward and rude. Is there even a way to answer this question? If he’s on a date with you then he probably wants to change his single status. If you keep asking every guy this question, it may be the reason why you’re single.
3. Do not ask him how tall he is or how much he weighs. Sometimes us girls forget that guys have feelings too. He may hate being “below average height” as much as you do! Avoid any discussion of physicality, unless it’s a compliment. That he’ll definitely like.
4. If one of you is graduating this spring, be sensitive when discussing real life. Some people have scored awesome jobs. Others are still looking. Some people were accepted to the grad school of their dreams. Others were not. Keep this in mind. Follow his lead to find out if he’s the former or the latter.
5. Do you know _______? Yes, there’s a 50/50 chance he knows that person. Yes, there’s also a 50/50 chance he doesn’t like that person. Talk about yourselves, not other people.
Collegiettes, making conversation with a cute guy isn’t that hard, but sometimes it can feel like it is. Let the convo flow freely. You don’t have to be smooth as long as you’re genuinely interested.
Destiny (and sexual chemistry) can handle the rest.
*Images courtesy of Google