The rules for dating has changed from when your parents started dating. So some of the tips and advice they may have given you aren’t necessarily relevant in today’s dating-sphere.
New (and old) dating habits that every modern single should know
1. He Doesn’t Always Have to Pay
It’s a common belief that if the guy asks you out on a date, that he is going to pay for it. However, according to Match.com, 41% of women actually prefer offering to pay on the first date. While this isn’t a revolutionary change, it is something that some people are still getting used to.
2. It Only Takes 15 Minutes to See if There is Chemistry
A first date is always nerve-wracking, however if you and your date has true chemistry, studies show that you will be able to pick up on that chemistry only 15 minutes into the date. Don’t worry about your date leaving after that 15 minute mark, because according to Match.com, only 12% of first daters will leave before the date is over.
3. Honesty Is Always the Best Policy
You can’t argue with honesty. Daters old and new can agree that if you really want to get somewhere with your date that you should always be honest with them — even if you don’t care for them. Besides, why lie about having a good time if you really aren’t? Unless you are an award winning actor, chances are you probably won’t be that convincing when you say you’re having a great time.
4. Don’t Have Sex After the First Date
Now, this is entirely subjective because if you both are brimming with chemistry and want to maul each other, go for it… But, a staggering 80% of singles believe you should have sex on the first date. Why? Well… You know the saying, why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free? By giving it up so quickly, there is no mystery or anticipation, and what fun is that?
5. Don’t Hesitate to Follow Up
This is where there is a big difference between men and women. Approximately 68% of guys prefer to play the waiting game after a date to follow up. So yes, they may not call for as long as three days after the date. Women, on the other hand, prefer to reach out within 24 hours of the date. So… Guys, feel free to contact her sooner — she’ll appreciate it.
6. Phone Calls Trump Digital Communication
We are surrounded by ways to reach out to one another — texting, email, instant messaging, and a slew of other methods. You may be surprised that 80 percent of couples still prefer the good old phone call as a means of communication. Who would have thought?
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Friend Your Date on Facebook
We aren’t saying that you should friend your date as soon as you get home from your first date, but it is okay to send a friend request after two or three months of dating. Older couples prefer to wait until the relationship is exclusive before they send that request. Really, just use your best judgement, because you don’t want to see too eager and stalkerish if you’ve only been dating for a few weeks.
8. Don’t Forget About Your Friends
Sometimes when we are dating, we tend to put our friendships on the back burner. You definitely don’t want to do this because they will be with you should the relationship not work out. In fact, you can introduce your friends to your partner early on in the relationship. It’s a good way for everyone to get to know each other and who knows, you may be able to plan group dates!