First date: The most important question to ask a dating coach
Job interviews and first dates share a similarity in that both require you to present the best version of yourself. However, in both situations, your focus on being understood and liked may hinder your ability to truly get to know the other person.
A recent study by Plenty of Fish found that nearly half of single individuals have experienced a date where the other person failed to ask them any personal questions.
According to Blaine Anderson, a dating coach and founder of Dating by Blaine in Austin, Texas, the key to making a great first impression is to shift your focus from yourself to your date.
What is the main point of Anderson's statement?
How? By using their date's answer to talk about themselves.
Instead of changing the subject to your own crazy day when your date talks about theirs, you can ask a "support question" to gain more insight into what made their day chaotic and how they're feeling, according to Anderson.
The 3 ingredients of a good question
According to communications expert Matt Abrahams, demonstrating empathy and asking someone to expand on their thoughts shows that you care.
He states that these tools and assets are valuable for both career growth and strengthening relationships.
To make your date feel heard, ask questions that demonstrate you were listening, according to Abrahams.
- Be concise
- Can you elaborate on the specific aspects of the project that you are struggling with?
- Revolve around a focused idea
Anderson advises asking questions related to their priorities without directly asking about them to determine if there is a potential match between you two.
"Based on their descriptions of their leisure activities and social connections, one can infer a great deal," she remarks.
If your date informs you that their family was in town last weekend, you can inquire about how frequently they visit or what activities they enjoy during their visits.
The "support questions" demonstrate that you were paying attention and can aid in determining if you and I are compatible.
Ask about something that is 'easy to have an opinion about'
Can you please provide me with your email address so I can send you the necessary information?
Grace Lee, a dating coach and founder of A Good First Date, says that asking questions can put your date at ease.
"The objective of a first date is to ensure that you don't miss out on someone exceptional. Your aim is to set them up for success so that you can bring out their full potential."
What is something that is "easy to have an opinion about," Lee suggests? A cocktail menu, for instance, can offer a secure environment for individuals to express their trivial views.
"Lee says, 'You're at a bar and you ask, "Oh are you a tequila person?" or "What's your drink of the season?"'
Anderson claims that while job interviews and dates share some similarities, dates are intended to be flirty.
""Asking the right questions can set a positive and romantic tone on your date," she advises."
Sign up for CNBC's online course to master your money this fall. Our practical strategies will help you hack your budget, reduce your debt, and grow your wealth. Start today to feel more confident and successful. Use code EARLYBIRD for a 30% introductory discount, extended through September 30, 2024, for the back-to-school season.
Sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to receive tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.
Make It
Saving money is a top priority for many people, and one 27-year-old who makes $108,000 has found that thrift shopping has been a key factor in his financial success. Here are his top three tips for saving money through thrift shopping: 1. Be selective: When shopping for clothes, it's important to be picky about what you buy. Look for items that are versatile and timeless, so you can wear them for years to come. Avoid buying trendy pieces that will quickly go out of style. 2. Shop smart: Take advantage of sales and discounts, and look for deals on items that you need. You can also save money by buying secondhand clothing from thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces. 3. Donate and sell: When you're done with clothes that you no longer wear, consider donating them to a local charity or selling them online. Not only will this help you declutter your wardrobe, but it will also put money back into your pocket.
Make It
You might also like
- What does it mean for a psychologist to explain the concept of "holding space" for "Defying Gravity"?
- At 15, Keke Palmer became a breadwinner by earning $40,000 per show on Nickelodeon.
- An estate planning expert advises that you can learn from Warren Buffett's updated will, regardless of your wealth level.
- Barbara Corcoran believes that employees are not more productive when working from home, but she still supports hybrid work.
- At 42, he's a bestseller: 'My last novel just debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times'