The expert named the factors influencing the decision to continue communication.

Today, the first date is increasingly turning not into an acquaintance, but into a test of expectations. Natalia Krasilnikova, PR director of the Mamba online dating service, told Izvestia on March 25 that in most cases the decision to continue communication is made right during the first meeting and rarely changes afterwards.

According to the service, up to 85% of women are not ready to go on a second date if a man has failed to meet expectations or there are so-called red flags in his behavior. Representatives of the stronger sex are more flexible in this matter: about 35% admit the possibility of giving a second chance.

This speed is explained by the fact that by the time they meet, people have already formed an idea of each other. Up to 95% of expectations are formed at the stage of the questionnaire, photos and correspondence. As a result, the date itself becomes more of a test of a pre-formed image. Photos act as an instant filter, a questionnaire enhances or reduces interest, and correspondence helps to understand the level of comfort and boundaries of communication.

About 72% of users are already discussing basic things by the time of the meeting — dating goals, lifestyle and interests. Therefore, the main question that remains on a date that cannot be solved online is whether there is emotional "chemistry" between people.

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Despite the digital stage, basic factors still decide when meeting in person. First of all, the appearance, neatness and general feeling of well—groomed. This sets the tone for communication and becomes a kind of "entrance ticket": in its absence, the conversation often does not work out.

"The manner of communication is equally important. The ease of dialogue, friendliness and lack of tension directly affect the perception of the interlocutor. A sense of humor helps to remove awkwardness faster, while the coincidence of interests fades into the background and becomes significant after the appearance of comfort," Krasilnikova said.

At the same time, men and women evaluate the first impression differently. Representatives of the stronger sex are more likely to focus on appearance and a general sense of ease in communication. Women pay attention to details: neatness, smell, respectful behavior, a sense of security, and the ability to maintain a dialogue. A sense of humor also plays an important role.

According to the expert, there are a number of typical mistakes that can spoil the impression on the first date. Among them are untidy appearance, constant use of the phone, conversations about former partners, excessive alcohol consumption, as well as discussions of politics and religion.

Men are more likely to make mistakes related to violating boundaries: excessive sexualization, focus only on themselves, lack of interest in the interlocutor, rudeness. Women have emotional excesses: complaints, excessive negativity, lack of engagement, or an overly provocative appearance.

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The logic of evaluating a partner also changes with age. Visual sympathy and ease of communication play a key role for a young audience. Millennials and Generation X have added a rational approach — an analysis of lifestyle, stability, and alignment of goals. For an older audience, personal qualities come to the fore: sincerity, mental closeness and emotional comfort.

The expert noted that the first impression in most cases remains decisive. Women rarely review it, men are a little more often ready to give a second chance, but more to test their feelings than because of a formed interest.

"No complicated strategies are required to make a good impression. Neat appearance, neatness and moderate perfume create a base, and sincere interest in the interlocutor and the ability to maintain a dialogue consolidate the effect. Politeness, respect for boundaries and natural behavior remain universal factors that most often determine whether dating will continue," Krasilnikova concluded.

Krasilnikova named the best places for dating on March 6. According to her, calmness and a sense of security are especially important for the first meeting after meeting on the Internet. Therefore, locations are popular where it is convenient to meet and, if necessary, quickly disperse, such as small cafes near the subway, afternoon brunches, museums, exhibitions, or walks around the city center.

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