How to Get a Second Date

You flirted like a pro. You finally made the transition from 'just friends' to 'maybe more'. You swapped numbers at a party. No matter how you managed it, you got a date. The magical, exciting, awkward first date. You know how you feel, but how can you convince them to keep seeing you?

Assuming you want to see your date again, here are some tried and true tips for obtaining that elusive second date.

1. Always maintain your sense of mystery! Think of Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice. Don't just ramble on and on so that after ten minutes they know your entire life story. Give the impression that they've only seen the tip of the fascinating iceburg that is you. Reveal interesting snippets about yourself, but keep some surprises and good stories for later.

2. Do not invite your mom (or any other relative or close friend). I know it can be tempting to bring along some moral support. Don't do it. If you bring along a good friend, then the two of you will already know each other well. Whether or not you realize it, you will speak in a kind of code. Your date will be left feeling excluded while you laugh at inside jokes, make obscure references to shared memories, and enjoy yourselves. You need to get to know your date better. The only exceptions to this are:

(1) If you met your date online or in a bar. In this case, you have little background information about them. In the interest of safety, meet in public places and consider having someone else come and keep on eye on you.

(2) If you were introduced by a mutual acquaintance. You should still not go as a three-some, as one of you will end up being the third wheel, but a double date could be good.

(3) If you were already good friends before you started dating. If you already know each other well, then the transition into being a couple is more gradual and subtle.

3. Express interest, but only when genuinely interested. Ask your date questions about themselves. Notice details, like their cool shoes or calloused fingers from playing guitar. Find mutual interests. Always be polite, but don't pretend to like anything that you don't.