Four Things You Should Never Do on a First Date

When you're online dating, you meet a lot of people without knowing much about them. And they know basically nothing about you either, aside from what you've mentioned in your profile or over a text or phone call. This means that there's more pressure for you to leave a good impression, and more room for misunderstandings to occur. After all, you don't come with references. And neither does your date.

With this in mind, it's important to understand that first impressions are everything. And while it might be unfair to be judged by a virtual stranger for something you did unintentionally, that's what happens a lot of the time. So it's up to you to put the best foot forward possible, so that you have a chance to get to that second date. (Especially if you find yourself really attracted to her.)

Following are four important reminders of what you should never do on a first date if you want to make a good impression:

Drink too much. It's okay to have a glass of wine or beer, but if you're feeling nervous and tend to wash those feelings away with a couple of shots, you should reconsider your strategy. You want to have control of your impulses and senses to keep yourself out of danger. You also want to make decisions you won't regret later. So have some restraint.

Constantly check your cell phone. Have you ever been sitting across from your date and he's texting or checking his Twitter feed all night? This is really rude and annoying. Your date will think you're not interested or that you're texting about her. It will feed all kinds of insecurities, none of which mean you'll have a second date. So do yourself a favor and put it away while you're together. I promise, you'll be okay being offline for a couple of hours.

Act too sexually eager or aggressive. Men - even if you feel like she's making a move or being overly flirtatious, it's good to let her lead the physical aspect of the relationship. Don't just assume she'll hook up with you. And ladies - know where you stand. If you're too eager to enter into a physical relationship with a guy to lure him, he won't take you as serious relationship material. Proceed with both eyes open, and know your limits.

Look around at the other hot guys/girls in the room. Engage with your date. It also helps to keep your eyes focused on your date, especially when he or she is talking. If you're looking around at everyone else in the room, she's going to think you're rude or uninterested. Try to focus your attention fully on her, no matter how distracted you might be.