Your first date should make a lasting impression, for all the right reasons. To ensure it does, follow these five rules for his-and-her happiness:

Rule 1:  Give Him Your Full Attention

He asked you out for some one-on-one time. That means no texting while you’re out with him—or for that matter, checking your Facebook page. If he thinks you can’t make time for him, he won’t waste his time with you, either.

Rule 2:  Don’t Just Talk. Listen, Too!

Yes, you want to prove to him that you’re interesting to be around. Well, guess what? He wants the same opportunity. That said, ask questions that draw him out—and stay away from those that put him on the defensive (in other words, anything that he’d have to answer if he were picked out of a police line-up).

Rule 3:  Dress Appropriately For The Occasion

Looking your best doesn’t mean over-dressing (forget the heels for the hike in the woods) or under-dressing, for that matter. He wants to show you off, not bust a few noses because you’re getting propositioned by every other man in the room. Make it easy for him to love you— don’t look “easy!”

Rule 4:  Don’t Play It Too Easy—Or Too Hard To Get

Men love a challenge—mentally, emotionally, and physically. If you’re willing to give without some emotional quid pro quo, he won’t stay interested for long. At the same time, he won’t hang around if you’re into game-playing or head trips. Rule of thumb: treat him as you would your best friend—that is to say, with respect and appreciation. By doing so, you’ll set the course for a live-long friendship…or perhaps, a lifetime of love.

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Josie Brown is the author of The Housewife Assassin’s Handbook novel series, and the Totlandia novel series. She is also the co-author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Finding Mr. Right, also the as well as Relationships Channel Editor at SingleMindedWomen.com.