How to Get Fresh this spring:

Does anyone really know the rules for dating in the 21st century? Are they any different than in ages past? Remaining single throughout our 20s and 30s is commonplace these days with many people deciding to pursue careers and life in the fast lane before settling down with The One. So, is there an unwritten code that all these singletons are privy to, or is it more of a free-for-all where no one really knows what is expected of them? Whatever the case, whether you are looking for Mr or Miss Right or just out for a bit of fun, here are some do’s and don’ts to help you get fresh on the dating scene this spring.

Don't:
* Give one-word answers – If your date asks you a question, elaborate! They are not trying to dig up dirt on you under duress; they are interested to learn more about you. Keep the conversation flowing by giving full answers and by asking questions in return.
* Talk about yourself all night – make sure you take the time tofind out aboutthe person you have chosen to spend this date with, rather than just filling them in on the intricacies of your own life. Talking about yourself, especially when un-asked, can come across as self centred, this may put your date off seeing you for a second time.
* Talk about ex-relationships - most importantly if it is a very recent one and you are still hankering after your ex! If you are ready to move on then leave your past relationships in the past and talk about things you have in common with the new person in you life rather than what went wrong with the old one!
* Answer the phone – it canbe very distracting fora person who is trying to spend time with you if you are constantly fielding phone calls, so put your phone on silent or, even better, switch it off. If it is important they’ll call back.
* Be late – leaving your date waiting alone for too long can make a very bad first impression so, if you are unavoidably late, let them know. Better to be on time though as it is difficult to come back from a bad first impression.
* Hit on others while on the date – yes you are out to find Mr or Miss right, but hitting on the hot waiter as he walks past your table is not going to improve your chances. Focus on the date you are on, you can always get that other number another time.

Do:
* Make a plan – there is nothing worse than finding yourself on a date with no idea what the two of you might enjoy, so make sure, when you make the date, that you plan what to do and then do it!
* Ask questions and seem interested – everyone likes to talk about themselves so, if you want to make your date feel as if you find them interesting, ask questions about them: where did you grow up? How many siblings do you have? What is your line of work? Whatever the question, this little piece of advice will keep the conversation flowing.
* Compliment your date – nothing makes a person feel better about themselves on a date than the knowledge that they look good, are intelligent or are interesting. So tell them. Complimenting your date will also show that you are interested in them as you will have had to look and listen in order to make the observation.
* Get the door – in this modern age it is very confusing for men as to whether or not they should still show the chivalry that once distinguished a gentleman in the crowd. Go for it guys. You may occasionally be knocked back but on the whole most women, modern or not, like to be treated with respect. Open the door, pull out her chair, see her safely home if possible. Girls let your men treat you like a lady; chivalry exists so than men can show respect, not because they think we are incapable!
* Look showered, clean and well dressed – nothing is more off-putting than going on a date with someone you have met in the boardroom wearing Versace, and then he turns up unwashed in dirty jeans. Making an effort to show yourself at your best will go a long way to securing that second date. 
* Have an opinion – 21st century singletons are better educated and more knowledgeable about the world and its current affairs than generations before. So if asked, offer your opinion, but make sure it is a well informed one, intelligence is at the top of the job description for Mr or Miss Right!
* Be yourself – there is no point in trying to be something you are not. Especially if you are hoping to keep seeing the person you are dating. They will soon catch you out and that could mean an unnecessary end to your high hopes.
* Be honest - If you are genuinely interested but honestly busy, set a new date and time then and there. If you just say you are busy, your date will think you are not interested and perhaps Miss Right will walk out of your life for good.

Top Tip for dating in the 21st century? Go out and have fun. When you stop looking for love, it will find you!