Dating Expert Reveals 6 Questions to 'Never' Ask Someone
When it comes to first date conversation, one dating expert says some topics are meant to be ignored.
Australian relationship expert Alexa Johnston says there are six questions in particular you should never ask on a first date. Johnston warned singles about which subjects to avoid in a new interview with The Sun.
"First dates are already nerve-wracking enough without accidentally stepping on conversational landmines," Johnston said.
“What people frequently don't realise is that certain questions, no matter how innocent they might seem to you, can instantly send your date running for the exit."
According to Johnston, the six questions are as follows:
- How much money do you make?
- Why are you still single?
- Do you think I'm attractive compared to your ex?
- When do you want to have children and how many?
- What's your body count?
Have you had any work done?
As a substitute for the first question, Johnston suggests asking your date what led he or she to their career and what they enjoy about it, as asking about one's salary creates "immediate discomfort."
"Asking about someone’s salary on a first date suggests you're evaluating them based on their financial worth rather than their personality," she added.
Of course, asking someone why they are still single seems counterproductive when the person asking the questions is presumably single themselves. Johnston says such questions can put people on the defensive.
The dating guru added that there's "literally no good answer" to a question comparing yourself to your date's ex-partner, and that inquiring about someone's "body count" might come off as judgmental.
A conversation about children is certainly appropriate down the line, but only after you've developed a rapport with the person and have been seeing each other frequently.
Lastly, Johnston says people should focus on giving their date genuine compliments as opposed to asking if they have had their appearance altered.
“This question puts your date in an awkward position where they either have to admit to cosmetic procedures or feel like you're scrutinising their appearance for 'flaws,'" she said.
“Either way, it makes them self-conscious at a time when you should be helping them feel comfortable and appreciated.”
Good luck out there, everyone.