So how can you make a positive first impression when dating?

Here’s some tips:

1. Look Good

"There is a saying that you never get a second chance to make a good first impression,” says Joe Tracy, publisher of Online Dating Magazine. "When meeting someone for the first time on a date, it is absolutely vital that you look your best.” Your physical appearance is the very first thing that catches a person’s eye so your first step to making that great first impression is - dress to impress. If you can walk into a room and make peoples heads turn, then you’ve cracked it. “If you look pristine, you'll feel pristine: you will ooze more confidence, you'll feel comfortable and proud to be you and will automatically transmit a positive message,” says performance coach Fiona Harrold. So before a date, look through the wardrobe and pick an outfit that will make them say “WOW”, and if you can’t find one, go treat yourself!

2. Smile

It’s all very well looking good, but if you have a face that looks like thunder you aren’t going to come across as approachable. So listen to the rock band The Killers when they say in their song “smile like you mean it”. Not a fake, cheesy, manic grin, but a nice genuine smile that will light up the room.

3. Relax

One of the keys to making a good first impression is to relax. If you come across as calm and collected, your date will relax, which makes for a perfect, non-stressful atmosphere.

4. Enjoy Yourself

One of the most important things to remember is simply this: have fun! “There's something quite irresistible about a person who appears relaxed, happy and enjoying every moment. It spells "zest for life" and shows people you're comfortable in your own skin,” says Fiona Harrold. A date shouldn’t be hard work, you should both enjoy each other’s company and have a good time. Relationship author, Sarah Paul, says: “Don’t criticise, don’t talk about anything negative, and avoid any “deep” conversations on that all-important first date.” If something does go wrong and you spill your drink down your designer outfit, don’t worry about it, just laugh it off and move on. “If you can carry off any crazy situation with aplomb and humour, they’ll be wowed… and they’ll want to keep you from getting away,” Sarah Paul adds.

5. Listen and Prepare

There is nothing worse than someone that talks and talks and then when you finally do get a word in, they speak over you. Make sure you don’t talk at them, but let the conversation flow and listen to what they are telling you. Be attentive! “If you want someone to be interested in you, be interesting. What have you done lately that makes you interesting? Bring it to the fore. Be proud,” advises Fiona Harrold. Think of some topics of conversation before you meet them, to avoid the nerves kicking in. The more interesting anecdotes you have to share, the better - that way they will see you are a fun, active person and someone they want to get to know better.