The few hours leading up to a first date can be filled with nerves. Whether you’re second-guessing the dress you’ve chosen (is it too formal for a semi-casual evening?) or perhaps you’re washing your car for the second time today (just because, gentlemen), you’re already considering the impact of first impressions on a date even without consciously thinking about it.

But how important is a first impression, really?

In Malcolm Gladwell’s book, ‘Blink’, his research discovered that we can make a reasonably accurate assessment of someone just by observing them for a few seconds; and that’s all it takes – a few seconds.

So, when you’re on a first date, how can you ensure that you make a good first impression within those first few seconds?

We have the answers.

Here’s how to make better first impressions on a date:

Be aware of your body language.

When you’re meeting your date for the first time, whether it’s in a restaurant or you’re picking her up in your just-washed vehicle, be aware of your body language.

If you’re meeting him or her at a pre-determined location, stand up straight and ensure you make eye contact when your date enters. Be sure to smile and, if you’re nervous, it never hurts to take a few deep breaths before he or she walks in the door.

Be presentable.

This one should go without saying, though reminders never hurt.

Dressing well doesn’t mean pulling out your suit or wearing a semi-formal dress. In fact, if you’re taking your date to a casual location (like a tapas bar or a bowling alley), you can dress well with a form-fitting pair of jeans and a light, fitted Fall coat.

Additionally, it’s important to show your confidence (without an ego) through your initial topics of conversation. Come prepared with a few topics to kickstart your date, especially in the first few minutes as you’re meeting him or her for the first time.

Try to break the “small talk” barrier early.

Speaking of the first few minutes, it’s important to break the “small talk” barrier early.

As we all know (and as we’ve likely experienced), small talk simply isn’t engaging – and is often boring.

Search for common interests. Pull together points of conversation from their ROVR profile (do they like hiking? Maybe you work in similar industries?) and be sure to avoid sensitive topics, like religion and politics. Save that for another time.

Be sure to talk about the OTHER person.

Remember our suggestion to avoid ego, yet still exude confidence?

Show genuine interest in the other person by asking him or her about their hobbies. Topic ideas can be about their career, their family, and what they enjoy doing on weekends.

The general rule of thumb is to ask two questions for every one comment you make about yourself.

Treat everyone with respect (not just the person you’re with).

The ultimate test for a first date is to watch how your prospective partner treats third parties you come in contact with.

For example, if you’re sitting at a restaurant or bar, how is he or she treating the server or bartender? Did he or she tip the valet, and smile while handing over the keys? Were they patient with the hostess if your table wasn’t quite yet ready?

For yourself, make sure you smile and be considerate with everyone you come in contact with. Although, to be a good person, this goes without saying.

As you’re preparing for a first date, remember the rule of thumb according to Malcolm Gladwell – first impressions can be made within just a few seconds of meeting someone new. So, while you’re en route to your date, think positively, be presentable and treat everyone with respect. By following our tips, you could land yourself a second date.