It’s completely normal to feel nervous on your first date, says Sabrina Romanoff, PsyD, a clinical psychologist who specializes in relationships.
While you may spend time picking the perfect outfit or planning date activities, don’t overlook the importance of preparing some conversation starters too.
Because, as you try to make a good first impression, your mind can go blank when trying to come up with questions that go beyond dull, small talk. You want to ask meaningful questions that spark an interesting conversations and help you get to know the other person.
To help you out, we compiled some of the best first date questions recommended by dating experts and everyday people alike.
Whether you want to keep things light with funny icebreakers, dig deeper emotionally with thoughtful questions, or heat things up flirtatiously, our list has you covered.
We provide a diverse range of open-ended questions that can work for different dating personalities and goals.
So the next time you find yourself fumbling for what to talk about on a first date, review this list of engaging questions. They are great conversation starters to help break the ice and let your personality shine through as you get to know your date better.
50 First Date Questions
With these first date questions in your arsenal, you can approach your next first date with confidence. These are great for breaking the ice on a first date.
20 Good Light-Hearted and Fun Questions
- What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day?
- What does a typical day look like for you?
- What’s one hobby you’ve always wanted to try but never have?
- What was your favorite TV show as a kid?
- If you had to eat one meal over and over again for a month, what would it be?
- What’s the best or worst purchase you’ve made recently?
- If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
- What’s your favorite dessert?
- Who was your childhood celebrity crush?
- What’s your dream job?
- Do you have any hidden talents?
- What would your perfect weekend look like?
- What chore do you absolutely hate doing?
- What’s your favorite season and why?
- What is your favorite childhood memory?
- What’s your favorite place?
- What’s your favorite family tradition?
- What fun plans do you have coming up?
- What songs have you completely memorized?
- Are you a morning person or a night owl?
20 Deep and Meaningful Questions
- What qualities are you looking for in your life partner?
- What’s one thing that’s changed about you in the last few years and why?
- Do you’ve any pet peeves?
- What’s one misconception others often have about you?
- What’s one obstacle you’re proud of overcoming?
- What advice would you give your younger self?
- What’s your philosophy on life so far?
- Is there anything you don’t eat or allergic to?
- What gets you fired up or passionate about life?
- What’s one thing on your bucket list?
- What quote or mantra do you try to live by?
- What random act of kindness are you most proud of?
- What’s the most worthwhile investment you’ve made in yourself?
- If you knew you couldn’t fail, what dream would you pursue?
- How do you think your closest friends would describe you?
- What life lesson took you the longest to learn?
- What issue or problem is most important for our society to address? Why?
- What does your ideal future look like?
- How would you like to make a difference in the world?
- What has been the biggest blessing in your life?
10 Questions for Navigating Awkward Silences
- What’s the best trip or vacation you’ve ever been on?
- Have you read any good books lately?
- Are you watching any TV shows right now you really like?
- Do you prefer sweet foods or salty foods?
- Do you have any pets? Have you ever had an unusual pet?
- Are you originally from this area? If not, what brought you here?
- Do you have siblings? Older or younger?
- What’s your go-to music playlist you always have downloaded?
- Been to any concerts lately? Who’s one artist you’d love to see live?
- What’s one of your all-time favorite movies?
Tips for Making Conversation on a First Date
The key to have a good time is to show genuine interest in learning more about your date while also letting them get to know you better too!
Ask open-ended questions: They allow the other person to share more about themselves. What do they enjoy doing in their free time? What are they passionate about? Listen closely to what they say.
Active Listening: Pay close attention to what your date says.This shows your interest in the exchange. Smile and react to things they share to keep things flowing well.
Self-Disclosure in Moderation: Share things about yourself as well, but don’t dominate the conversation. Gauge their interest by asking follow up questions about the things you share.
Finding Common Ground: Find common interests and connections. What TV shows, movies, sports, hobbies might you have in common? Those make for great conversation.
Express Genuine Interest: Compliment them sincerely on little things from their dress to something they share that impresses you. But don’t overdo it.
Ending on a High Note: How you you guys end the conversation is also very important. Conclude the conversation with something positive or memorable. This could be a compliment, a shared joke, or plans for a next meeting. This leaves a lasting, positive impression.
Summary:
A first date is all about starting a connection and seeing if there’s chemistry between you. While you want to make sure you don’t bombard someone with too many questions right away, having some thoughtful questions planned helps the conversation flow.
Mix lighter questions about hobbies and interests with deeper ones that reveal other person’s values, hopes, and dreams.
Remember to focus on really listening to their responses too – not just rapid firing one question after another. The goal is to have a good time so both of you want to go a second date, not feeling interviewed.
If you can relax, be genuinely curious about your date while also being your authentic self, you’re sure to make a positive impression. A great connection starts with an openness to learn about one another through caring conversation.
