First dates mean first impressions and you don’t want to blow your chances by messing up what could be the most important meeting of your life. What it takes to mess it up could be one of a number of things. The following is a list of common complaints from both men and women. It’s better to make sure you cover them all – just in case!

Body odor: Finishing a marathon only moments before your date doesn’t give you an excuse to stink. If you plan on getting anywhere near your date, make sure you smell like morning dew and not morning sickness.

Cockiness: Only a select few will find this approach attractive. I’d avoid this tactic of seduction at all costs.

Bad breath: Take your time and brush your teeth and rinse with mouthwash before taking off on your date. Nothing ruins a kiss more then an odd oder drifting from your mouth.

Smoking: If you’re not sure if you’re date smokes, forget about lighting up after you’ve brushed your teeth. Nonsmokers are repelled by the smell.

Talking about the ex: If you can’t get your mind off your ex, you shouldn’t be out on a date. Talking about your past relationships in general terms is fine, but you’ll get yourself into trouble if you don’t know what you’re doing when it comes to chatting about your ex.

Silence: First dates aren’t the time to clam up and not ask questions or chat about yourself. Dating is about exploration and unless you open your mouth, they’ll never get to know you.

Ask about money: It’s not polite or appropriate to ask how much someone makes or if they own their house on a first date. These are private matters and nobody has a right to ask that of someone they’ve just met. It’s rude – so don’t do it!

Answering the phone: We live in a connected society but when you’re on a date, you should make it priority one. Turn the phone off. Life can wait an hour.

Wandering hands: It’s a first date and your hands belong in your lap. There are occasions when it becomes acceptable to grope your date, but only if they make the first move.

Talk about yourself – and nothing else: You’ll ruin a first date if you can’t get off your favorite subject – you! Ask as many questions as you answer. Dating is about balance. Keep the conversation split.

Splitting the bill: If you’re a woman, ensure you split the bill. There’s nothing worse than a freeloading date. You might make great company, but you shouldn’t bet on it.

Swearing: Don’t cuss it up on a first date. Every phrase is useful in certain circumstances but your arsenal of four-letter wonder words should be left at home.

Rudeness to wait staff: The only person who will be impressed if you’re rude to the wait staff is you. If you want to live alone, go ahead and point out the incompetence of your server. It will be plain to see to your date that the real ass is sitting across from them.

There’re a few of the big issues that can sink your date. Sure, some of the above won’t offend all of your dates, but it’s better to be prepared. Best of luck and let us know how it goes!