5 Things You Need to Know About Dating Etiquette

1. Dress Appropriately for the Activity

Wear an appropriate outfit on your date. It will help you look your best and be comfortable. Showing up for an evening hike in a fancy outfit could make both the hike and your date a little awkward. If you aren't the person planning a date or the date is a surprise, ask for hints about what you should wear.

2. Be Punctual and Reliable

It may sound odd, but when you first start dating someone, you should treat it like you are interviewing for an important job. You should always call when you say you are going to call and be on time. Give your date at least 24 hours notice if you have to cancel. Most importantly, if you'd like to see the person again, tell him and follow up in the next day or two to make plans. If things didn't go well on the date, you are better off being honest then telling the person you can't wait to see him again.

3. Turn Your Cell Phone Off (or at Least on Vibrate)

Answering your phone during any social setting can be a bit awkward. On a one-on-one date, it sends a message to your date that you are bored or uninterested in your date. Your date has taken the time out of her day to devote just to you, and you should return the favor. If you are expecting an important phone call that you may have to answer during your date, let your date know ahead of time so she won't take the interruption personally.

4. Be Open to Differences

Dating someone is a perfect opportunity to try new things. It is a chance to learn more about the other person and his interests. Your date may introduce you to a new hobby or music group that you didn't know about before. For some people, opposites attract. Others may prefer to date someone who only has similar interests. Try to take the time to really get to know the person before deciding whether he is too different or too similar to date.

5. Always Be Yourself

Don't try to be someone else on a date. On the first few dates, it is great to do special things to impress your date, but don't take your date to a five-star restaurant if you'd rather be across the street eating a slice of pizza. Pretending to be someone you aren't will prevent the other person from getting to know the real you.