Listen Up Gentlemen.. It turns out, women love a man who has manners and grace but still manages to be strong. A guy who knows how to treat a woman right is a guy who has a good grip on etiquette. The trick is to make sure that what you do is smooth and natural… and not awkward and staged.

The Meet + Greet

So, meeting for the first time, do you lunge in for the cheek kisses right away? Probably not. Usually that would be a little awkward, whereas a warm, not too firm grasp of the hand that lingers while you smile and say “Hello, really nice to meet you,” is a great way to start out. After all, if you fancy someone, isn’t it great to feel the build-up of romantic tension when you wait to hold hands or kiss for the first time?

First-Date Dinner Etiquette

As much as you might like the opportunity to view your date from behind, if you go into a venue that has a flight of stairs, you should walk ahead. If the moment arises, you can reach back and offer your hand so there is a nice moment to touch. If your date is wearing a coat, you should offer to help her with it when she takes it off or when she is putting it on. When you head for the table you should look to offer your date the best seat or position and ensure she is seated and comfortable before you sit down. It’s a natural impulse to sit on the side of the table looking out onto the restaurant — but if you fight the urge and offer the best seat to her, you will have her swooning at your good manners and chivalry. In terms of ordering, make sure you allow your date to place her order first.

Paying The Bill

Then there’s that moment of who pays the bill. My recommendation is for men to make the first move when the bill arrives. There is something about the man picking up the bill that says you are solid, can manage things, that you’re generous and kind. It says a lot about you as a gentleman and women really appreciate this show of generosity on a first date. Of course, you will help her with her coat again and open the door for her when leaving.

After Dinner

So, you are walking down the street, possibly in search of a coffee or an after dinner drink. A gentleman should always place his date out of harm’s way; it sounds old fashioned, but walk closest to the curb and the road and have her walk on the inside. As you cross streets or turn corners, always move to this position. Again, be sure to do this smoothly and naturally to show gentlemanly care.

Taxis/Ubers

If your date is getting an uber or taxi home, always make sure you wait with her until her ride arrives and she is in the car. Never leave her waiting alone!

Seems like there are so many things to think about, right? But really, if you only master these few etiquette tips, you will be well on your way to establishing yourself as a real gentleman whose good manners women will recognise.