When it comes to online dating, everything is a little bit different than during a classic ‘meeting each other’. You may see the profile of the other person first. Get an idea. And write to each other. Maybe for days, maybe for weeks. And if everything goes well, you will like each other. You may even feel first butterflies in your stomach.
In such a case, it is certain to get to know each other sooner in real life. See you for the first time. And suddenly the question arises: How do I actually greet the person who is facing me there?
From the digital world to the real encounter
Depending on how long you’ve chatted together, the relationship can already be very deep. Maybe you’ve told each other personal things. Or even exchanged a few love words.
Is a handshake appropriate in such a case? Somehow it feels wrong. Falling straight into each other’s arms and even kissing? That’s a bit too much, right? So how should you best greet your date partner?
Shake hands, or hug? Find details in this video:
First date: These greetings are OK
There are greetings, which are very common in many countries. For example, the handshake. In fact, it may be appropriate at the first meeting. As long as you do it right. A strong handshake is great. Just make sure it’s not too weak, and not too tight. Variants like a high-five or even a fist bump are inappropriate.
The classic handshake is fine, however, if you expect more of the date and have already developed a few feelings, it’s simply too formal. A good alternative is a hug. That’s ok too. But it should be a friendly hug first. A short, heartfelt squeeze. That’s enough. And it shows your date partner that you are pleased about the encounter.
Maybe you are particularly emotional, and have you been looking forward to the date for a long time – Thus, you might tend to kiss at the first greeting. What may work on a date in Berlin, in a trendy neighborhood with very easy-going, open-minded people, is not necessarily commonplace. So better do without it. Unless the preceding digital contact was particularly intense and familiar.
And another tip for the men: Complimenting the woman during the first greeting is always a good idea. Dedicate the compliment especially to the woman in front of you. Something about her that attracts your attention. And the ice is broken.
Read the signs at the date
Whether a handshake or a hug is appropriate – The answer may be found in the posture of your date. If the person keeps a distance, then a handshake and a friendly “Hello” are your best choice. Likewise, if she seems rather shy and reserved.
And don’t forget: Despite all these tips, authenticity is the most important thing about the date. Welcome your date the way you feel like. However, always consider your current relationship and the body language of the other person.
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FAQs
In some cultures, it's standard to greet with a kiss or two on the cheek, but others might find this to be too much. In that case, a simple handshake or even a casual hug will suffice. According to experts, one of the most important dating reminders is gauging your date's comfort levels.
How do you introduce yourself on a first date? ›
Introduce yourself if you've never met before.
Try saying something like, “Brittany? Hi, I'm Suzanne! It's so nice to finally meet you.”
How do you greet someone you meet for the first time? ›
Formal Ways To Say “Hello”
- Good morning/afternoon/evening. These are classic, formal phrases to use when greeting someone, whether it's the first time meeting them or if you've already met them before. ...
- Pleased to meet you. ...
- It's nice to meet you. ...
- It's good to see you. ...
- How are you?
Deciding whether or not to kiss on the first date is tricky, but experts say to just trust your instincts. “I don't think there's any right or wrong when it comes to kissing on the first date; it's just how you're feeling, what the vibe is, what the connection is, what you're comfortable with,” said Durocher.
How to say "hi" in flirty way? ›
Here are some cute ways to say hi:
- “Hey, cutie! How's it going?”
- “Hey there, beautiful! What have you been up to so far today?”
- “Hey, lovely! How was your day?”
On average, a first date should last a little less than three hours (2.72), and it takes respondents about four dates to feel comfortable with that person. Almost one-third (31%) of respondents feel the least comfortable part about going on a first date is the nerves.
How many dates before holding hands? ›
If you have a significant other, you know that there comes a time when you feel the urge to hold their hand. This is normal. It's okay to show affection and love to your significant other. Typically, couples start holding hands on the third day of "going out" at the earliest.
What do you say instead of hi? ›
Howdy / Hey mate / Hey man / G'day / and Gidday mate all indicate that we know a person quite well. How are you? / What's up? / How's it going? are casual ways to say hello in English and indicate that we've known that person for some time. How's you? is a casual and tender way to ask after someone's wellbeing.
How do Americans greet each other for the first time? ›
Most people shake hands firmly and briefly when they meet for the first time or in a formal situation. When people are good friends or family, they will sometimes hug each other to say hello, goodbye or thank you.
How do I greet my crush? ›
Greet them casually.
- It may sound silly, but using your crush's name can induce some warm fuzzy feelings right off the bat. Saying, "Hey, Brad!" sounds much more personal than "Hey!"
- If you can't make "What's up?" flow off the tongue naturally, open with anything that feels natural to you.
A short, heartfelt squeeze. And it shows your date partner that you are pleased about the encounter. Whether a handshake or a hug is appropriate, the answer may be found in the posture of your date. If the person keeps a distance, then a handshake and a friendly “Hello” are your best choice.
What is first date etiquette? ›
In fact, your focus should be on listening well and making the other person comfortable. To that end, avoid sensitive topics related to sex or money. Asking how much the other person earns or why their last relationship ended are not good questions to ask on a first date.
Should you cuddle on a first date? ›
Don't get too cozy.
Don't become too comfortable. No sensual touching or hugging and cuddling on the first date. Men will often test you in this to see how far they can get which we, at times, use to measure how easy it will be to get you in bed.
What should you say first when introducing yourself? ›
Step 1: Greet Your Interviewers
The first part of your self-introduction should be about who you are and where you live. For instance, you can say, "My name is Leonardo, and I am from San Francisco".
How do you introduce yourself in a friendly way? ›
15 creative self-introductions
- Use a name tag. ...
- Share a unique fact about yourself. ...
- Express yourself through your clothing. ...
- Use a custom-made business card. ...
- Consider your surroundings. ...
- Uncover similarities. ...
- Identify a mutual friend or acquaintance. ...
- Offer your help.
You can try to be engaging and witty, or you can ask her a simple, earnest question. It helps to have an opening line, to break the ice, but it doesn't need to be a rehearsed "pick-up line". You will make a better first impression if you're comfortable, so approach her in a way that you would want to be approached.
