THERE is a series called Single Ladies, a TV programme which highlights all the problems faced by single ladies today. The unfortunate reality is that most of the singles go out on a first date on a high note, only for them to be disappointed.There are a few things that one needs to k now when going out on that first date – remember it is a make-or-break! Talking of exThe last thing anyone wants to hear from a person they are trying to date is about their ex. The rule is simple; if you are not over your ex, then what are you doing trying to date a new person? Try to focus on the moment, and the person sitting across from you. Let the bygones be just that.Don’t drink yourself sillySome people get really nervous when they are going to meet a new person. So the only way to overcome their fear is by drowning themselves in booze quickly. This will only confirm why your ex dumped you. Try and be decent, a glass of wine is enough to take away the butterflies in your stomach.Groom yourselfThe person you are going to meet might not be the one, but invest in grooming yourself to look nice for your date. How you take care of yourself says a lot about you. Give someone a reason to invite you on a second date and the rest will be history.Show that you are knowledgeableDo not start a conversation about something you are not sure of. You will only be confirming that you have nothing between your two ears. It pays to read; you can read a little bit about the current news of what is going on in the world. Most people start conversation by talking about what is happening around.Put your phone awayYou will not miss anything if you put your phone away or even switch it off for the few minutes that you are discussing important matters that can even determine your future. It is very rude to be busy sending sms’s while the other person is sitting next to you, and showing little interest. No extra baggageGirls especially are fond of carrying their best friends on a date. Please try not to carry your friend or sister to your first date. This shows that you are not your own person, and never comfortable in your own skin. This time round leave them and go to your date alone.Etiquette First impression is always the last. How you conduct yourself on a first date will speak a lot about you. Eat and drink in moderation, don’t play with your fork when eating, or strike a conversation with food in your mouth. Remember to say thank you, please and excuse me where necessary – otherwise you will look uncouth.Don’t act desperateTry and not act or sound desperate, this is so cheap. You should not say a yes to everything so quickly that you leave the other person gaping at you because of the disparity in your voice.Take note that your first date determines whether you will have a second and third one. Be honest to yourself as much as possible. Do not say things that are untrue, because one day that person will find out the truth about you – and the reaction will not be so good.