First Date Topics of Conversation

Nothing's worse than those awkward moments on a first date when you're getting the "So....." look from across the table. Having a few general topics lined up ahead of time can go a long way toward avoiding these moments. When focusing in on topics, choose ones that your date will enjoy discussing too, not just ones that will make you look good. This is an important point for guys because we generally try to impress women with our exploits instead of finding common ground. I know it's hard to believe, but your date will have much more fun talking about little things like movies you’ve both seen than listening to your impressive resume of accomplishments. Remember, people love to talk about themselves and their passions, not just listening to yours, so if you can figure out their favorite topics they will be more than happy to open up and share. Which is great for you btw, because you'll get to learn all about your date and decide whether or not you want to spend time with them in the future.

A few quick points about good conversations in general; remember to ask open-ended questions (not 'yes' or 'no' answers), never make your date feel like they're in an interview, and don't pursue topics that you can't intelligently discuss. In other words, don't ask your date what they're reading if you haven't picked up a book in 9 months because your contributions to the conversation will be a string of slack-jawed "Uh huh..."s. So in closing, don't dominate the conversation, ask open-ended questions, and it's not an interview. Here are some safe topics:

Food
If you're out to eat, food's always a safe and easy topic. Asking their favorite types can open up discussions about local restaurants, styles of cooking, and food preferences in general. Do you like the same kinds? Have they tried a certain restaurant that you know about? If they cook maybe you talk about their favorite meals to make from scratch or the best homemade cookies ever.

Travel
If you've had a chance to see some of the world, travel stories can provide a glimpse of your date's worldly, adventurous side. If not, everyone has places they've dreamed about seeing, find out theirs and why.

Family
Family is important to many people, learn about your date's by asking how big theirs is, what they do for fun when they're together, favorite memories, whether it's total chaos or mellow during the holidays, etc.

Entertainment
If you're going to be spending time with this person you might as well find out some of the things you'll be watching together. What do they consider the best movies of the year, top bands, TV series, books, actors, authors, and so forth.

Current Events
Try to steer clear of politics and religion on first dates but if you're up on world events or local ones like new clubs, restaurants, events, sports, and such, find out if they are too. It's a great opportunity to learn something!

Hobbies and Sports
We all have our own little collections of things to do in our spare time. Is your date an outdoor or indoor person? Do they like sporty fitness (basketball, volleyball), active fitness (hiking, biking), or working out at the gym? Or sitting on the couch? Do they volunteer, fish, knit, play pool, or collect coins?

Goals and dreams
This is a fun one that ranges from professional goals to travel and even personal growth. Throw it out there and see what happens!

Art
By art I don't mean whether they prefer Rembrandt or Van Gogh, it's more about discovering if your date has an artistic streak. See if they like photography, playing guitar or the piano, painting, designing jewelry, clothes, candle making, or whatever.

Their Weekend
Find out what they were up to this past weekend. It's a good way to learn about their usual activities and friends.

The Environment
If all else fails, sit back and take a look around. Sometimes the scenery, waiter, or that obnoxious couple two tables over make for a great conversation.