ITV Dating - Rules of dating

Rules of Dating

Published: Tuesday, 21 August 2007, 2:09PM

As the presenter of ITV2’s Streetmate and co-host of Holly and Fern Go Dating, Holly Willoughby knows a few things about dating.

She’s put together a list of do’s and don’ts on how to male a good impression with a new love interest. Read her advice if you’re struggling to secure a second date.

Tell your friends where you’ve planned to meet. Get them to call you during the date – there’s no harm in making you look popular by receiving calls

Ask lots of open questions to keep the conversation flowing

Go Dutch when it comes to the bill.

Just be yourself. There’s no point pretending to be something you’re not as the real you will always come out later. And, you want someone to like you for being you – not someone you’re pretending to be.

Tell your funniest stories and try to keep the chat up-beat. Even if you have been going through a hard time, your date won’t want to hear about your ex who ran off with another man or any other skeletons in your closet.

Be a good listener. Your date will want to want to wow you with their charm, wit and funny stories too!

Ask to see your date again if you like them. Life is too short for playing games. If they say no, who cares? And, if they say yes – what a result!

DON’T

Drink too much. By all means have a glass or two, but it don’t start stumbling around and slurring your words –it’s not a good look.

If the date is going badly, cut the date short. If you don’t want to hurt their feelings, make up an excuse and leave. Life is too short!

Talk about yourself too much - there is nothing worse than having to listen to someone go on about how great they are.

Talk about exes unless asked any questions about them.

Ask them if they want to get married – you will send alarm bells ringing.

Belch, fart, pick your nose or do anything that might gross your date out – save that for your mates…..or wait until you have sealed the deal.

Come across as desperate. Nothing is more off putting than someone who is desperate or pushy. It’s only a date! Take it in your stride and – MOST IMPORTANTLY - try to have fun.