Catch a date in 50 seconds

Fancy climbing out a window to escape a date? In your average day, you see so many different faces yet no-one really talks to each other. Lots of single pringles are still waiting to find their perfect match; but human nature takes its toll with nerves kicking in on the first date and many of the UK unsure how to even start talking to someone.

So why do so many citizens bail out last-minute because we are just too scared to commit? In day-to-day life, everyone checks out some-one or other, whether it’s checking out their bum or even thinking the person is hot whilst drunk on the town. If you’re brave enough to approach someone you think is your match whilst drunk, there’s no stopping you from bringing that confidence to a real life sober experience. What could possibly go wrong?

There are so many dating sites around such as Plenty of Fish, Match.com and EHarmony, it’s no wonder the nation is turning to social media to connect and date online. With the click of a button, you can find many singletons in your area. Is the art of dating in person becoming nonexistence? With many in the mists of not knowing how to have a great first date and too worried that it will take a turn for the worst, now is the time to get some useful tips that are from real human beings, not robots.

Six adventurous people joined Exeter College to discuss their best and worst experiences of dating and lots of tips to get you through your date. Whether it be good or bad advice for dates and what to expect, you better get reading to get your dream date!

What is the best dating experience you’ve had?

Sue: Bike ride for the first time and it was fantastic. It’ll stick in my memory forever.

Alex: Dating someone I’ve completely fallen for and having a great time with them.

Zara: My current partner took me for a surprise valentine’s meal and also meeting his parents for the first time, which was really nice.

Tracey: Having been in a relationship for 20 years it’s hard to remember. I suppose the date when Jason asked me out and he said ‘do you want to go to the cinema?’ We originally went as friends but half way through the date I thought to myself, I actually really like him.

Rachel: The newness, unknown and excitement! You know they would bend over backwards for you and make you feel special. If you get asked out on a date it’s exciting and unexpected.

Catherine: When my partner surprised me whilst we were on holiday for my birthday. He bought me presents without me knowing, then took me out for a meal in the evening which he paid for, and we had cocktails. That was lovely.

And what is the worst experience of dating you’ve had?

Sue: Going out with someone who didn’t speak at all and spent the whole time staring into space.

Alex: When I was in year 10, I got asked out by a girl and it lasted three days because she forgot she was going out with me. That wasn’t nice at all but makes me chuckle.

Zara: Where you have nothing in common with them and the other person not making the effort to get to know you.

Tracey: I met this guy in a nightclub, and he asked for my number so I gave him my number and we arranged to go out on a date. When I met him I thought ‘oh I really don’t like you,’ and couldn’t wait for the date to be over. When he phoned back it was like avoiding his call.

Rachel: If I found out they aren’t who they are perceived to be or married or something, it can be a shock to the system and hurtful.

Catherine: When I went to the cinema with a boy once and he didn’t say anything the whole time. Afterwards we got the bus home.

What’s the best way to start a date?

Sue: With a big smile and being happy.

Alex: What you’re doing like work, studies and health. Both like each other and you have some kind of connection going on.

Zara: Doing something you both enjoy in an environment where you can get to know each other and have fun. Cinema wouldn’t be an ideal date as it would be like ‘hi bye’ sort of thing, there wouldn’t be a lot of talking going on.

Tracey: Going out like friends, nothing serious, have a cup of coffee and have a bit of fun really.

Rachel: I definitely have to know them first and be comfortable with them.

Catherine: If you can have a conversation with the person and get on really well with them, then obviously it’s going to turn out well!

What’s the worst way to end a date?

Sue: Arguing and not speaking as it leaves you feeling grumpy. The best way would be to leave with lots of kisses and with another date.

Alex: I suppose being awkward, throwing insults, being rude and ignoring the person wouldn’t go down to well.

Zara: Doing something that you don’t really enjoy, like an army challenge would be the worst first date for me because I hate getting muddy! If the other person kept talking about himself would be annoying!

Tracey: Climbing out the window – I would try that! If it’s really awkward that is!!

Rachel: If I wanted to get out of the date because I didn’t like them. If they didn’t wanna let go I’d put them down gently – it can be quite uncomfortable!

Catherine: If you didn’t like the person or their traits!

So with many real life experiences to take note on – go grab a date, be confident, fun, sassy and have the best time EVER!