There are some hard and fast rules about dating that would seem not to need to be said, but it is surprising how uninformed some people are. Probably the number one rule is the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do to you. If everyone practiced this, there would be fewer misunderstandings, broken hearts, and hurt feelings. In truth, some people go out with another person in the guise of a date expecting and hoping for something else altogether: a one-night stand, a steady romance partner, salve for a their wounded self-esteem. Treating others as you wish to be treated is no guarantee they will act in the same manner, but one thing you can be sure of is that you'll never look back with regret on your own behavior.

- Make sure you are not only speaking, but actually listening to your date. One bad habit many people have is already having something in mind that they want to say and are so eager to speak that they aren't listening to the other person speak.

- Ask open-ended questions; questions that require more than a one word answer. This gives both of you an opportunity to learn more about each other and sparks conversation.

- Make good eye contact with your date. Because 85% of communication is done via non-verbal signals, eye contact while conversing is a great way to signal to your date that you are indeed interested in what he is saying.

- It's okay to openly admit you're a little anxious about the date; it may break the ice so your date can make a similar admission or provide reassurances to you.

- Meet in a public place on your first date. This ensures your safety and minimizes the awkwardness of being alone with a stranger, trying to find something about which to converse.

- Don't go on and on about your exes, childhood traumas, or medical concerns. The time will come when the two of you are more comfortable with each other and are really into learning about these more personal issues.

- Don't be afraid to show your sense of humor. If you know a few anecdotes or jokes, share them with your date. You'll learn a lot about his sense of humor, too.

- Don't overindulge in alcohol. Since alcohol dulls the senses, you'll end up garnering little about your date and remembering even less, while he may see a side of you you had meant to keep to yourself.

- Do give your date your undivided attention. Don't answer cell phone calls during your date. In fact, unless you've left children in the care of another, turn off your cell phone until after the date.

- Don't be afraid to express a difference of opinion on topics. Just remember to voice your opinion on the topic and not on your date being “silly, stupid, or uninformed” to have a differing opinion.