Blind dates can be nerve-wracking and I'm sure you've heard lots of horror stories. They don't have to be this way though. Here are 10 tips to you have a successful blind date!

Plan.
First impressions are important as we generally form an impression of a person within just minutes of meeting them. Blind dates are no different. Your first impressions sets the stage for the entire date, so be sure to prepare in advance!

Preparing Yourself
When it comes to appearances, select clothing that is appropriate for your date, such as casual for a movie or a little more dressy for a nice dinner date. Do not wear clothes that are too revealing, strange, or over the top. Get a fresh haircut or trim so that you look neat and well put together. You should also shine your shoes, and/or iron your clothes, if needed. While a bit of cologne or perfume can be good, do not overdo it. Remember, you only have once chance at a first impression, so make it a good one! Plan your evening ahead, but stay flexible so that you can easily change your plans if needed.

Blind Date Safety.
Blind dates can be fun and exciting, but remember that this is your first meeting. Make sure that a friend knows where you will be and at what times, as well as the name of the person. Carry a cell phone with you at all times as a precaution.

Where To Go.
Pick a public place because is there safety, and you will feel more relaxed and have fun when you're in a public place. Keep the first date short and simple because with shorter date plans, you can make a quick exit if you're not interested. If you are interested, you can stick around or arrange to meet up again in the future. A few good options: Meet for coffee, A drink date in the evening or Meet for lunch during the week

The First Date Make Sure.
Arrive a little early and offer a polite greeting and handshake when he/she arrives. Smile and be friendly, even if you are nervous. Men, be a gentleman and open doors, hang up her coat, pull out her chair, etc. Women, be polite and thank him if he does these things for you. Remember that this is a blind date. If you set your expectations too high, you will surely be disappointed. Stays open minded and free of high expectations for your date.

Plan Exit.
In the even that a blind date isn't going well, be sure to have an exit plan in place. An option would be tell inform them that you will have leave early because ''X'' reason just after the two of you are set to meet. If the date is going well, you can call and "cancel" these plans. If it's not going well, you have your out.

Be Yourself.
One of the biggest mistakes that people make on blind dates is trying to be someone that they aren't. Just be yourself. During the date, answer questions honestly and talk about yourself without exaggerating. Remember, your date wants to know who you are; not who you your date wants you to be.

Make Conversation.
Conversation is extremely important to the success of a blind date. Ask about her career, her family or his friends. Keep the conversation light, but really try to get to know them.

DO:

• Ask about him.
• Ask about her family and friends.
• Ask about what he or she does for a living.
• Compliment your date.
• Ask about his or her interests and hobbies.
• Discuss music, film, food, and art.
• Talk about yourself (but not the entire time!)
• Show an interest in what he or she is saying.
• Stimulate the conversation with open-ended questions.

DO NOT:

• Discuss past relationships
• Talk in depth about topics that don't interest the other person.
• Speak badly about others.
• Say anything stupid, mean, or inconsiderate.
• Monopolize the conversation.
• Cross-examine your date.

Body Language
Remember that first impressions are not just based on appearance, but on the way you communicate with your words, tone of voice, and body language as well. In fact, body language is actually the most important when it comes to communication. Don't focus on your body language so much. Relax and react appropriately. Keep your eyes on your date, not on yourself or others around you.

Things to Watch.
While you should never go into a blind date with bad expectations, you should keep an eye out for a few 'warning signs':

• He or she is wearing a wedding ring.
• He or she just talks about past relationships.
• He speaks badly about his mother or ex-girlfriends.
• He doesn't offer to pay.
• He or she is rude to you directly.
• He or she treats the waiters rudely or doesn't tip.
• He or she drinks a lot.
• He or she does not pay attention to you