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Going on a first date is a bit like sleeping with the queen, it's a great honour, but most people don't really enjoy it. The problem is the pressure and of course wondering what to say. Conversation etiquette on a first date can vary wildly depending on who you're having the date with. You probably don't want to ask your first date if they saw South Park on TV last night if they're 76 years old. If your date is 16 then maybe it's OK. Alternatively you may avoid saying anything remotely outrageous for fear of being offensive, when your date is actually dying for you to add a bit of spice and sauce to proceedings.

The trouble is most first dates are with people you don't know very well. Therefore one of two things generally happens. Either you're really cautious because you don't want to upset them, or you go thundering in with your big mouth babbling away about something that bores them, offends them, depresses or distresses them. This is because you've forgotten to do one key thing find out about them. If you can do this before the date then that's great, but regardless, try and make the date all about them.

The first thing you need to find out is what they enjoy doing, because once you express an interest in something they like, they will start associating you with those good times. If you find their hobbies and interests dull then at least they're being the boring one and not you. And that's what most people get worried about before a date anyway, being boring. A great topic for conversation is holidays because most people will have had one in the last few years and recalling those happy memories will bring out the best in them and they'll think you're interesting for bringing it up. If you've been on a similar holiday, or to the same place then you're in a great position.

Preparation is crucial, especially if you're nervous or unsure of what you're going to talk about. Write down the questions you want to ask and practice asking them. Here are some good examples, as they are either open ended or leave room for another follow up question. Most importantly of all, they are all positive subjects.

- Where are you from? That must have been nice because.?
- What do you like to do for fun / kicks / laughs?
- If you could have any job in the world what would it be?
- Who's your hero?
- Where would you like to go on holiday next?

Unless your date is completely tongue tied these positive, open ended questions will bring out the best in them. After all a first date shouldn't

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