What are some questions you can ask on a first date?

First dates are hard.  There's no denying that.  From the endless supply of sweat that you didn't know your body could produce, to the awkward silences when you actually contemplate talking about how unseasonably cold it is outside, to the question of who pays the bill, first dates are often fairly anxiety-inducing. One thing that makes it even harder is not knowing the right questions to ask.

Now, we all hope that the conversation flows naturally on a first date, pinging and ponging like Zhang Jike in the London Olympics.  (Yes – I'm a total ping pong nerd!)  But inevitably, most of us, even those who think we could have a conversation with a piece of broccoli if we had to, will be stumped at some point or another.  Rather than running off to the restroom to plot your next conversation topic, it's a good idea to have a few questions in your back pocket just in case the gulping of your drink doesn't quite overpower the dreaded silence.

There are certainly no right or wrong questions to ask on a date, but the ones that have the most luck require more than a simple one-word answer.  You want to get the person thinking, showing them that you actually care.  For example, rather than asking, "What do you do?" (perhaps the most boring question in the book), you could ask, "What made you decide to get into medicine?" or "How do you enjoy your job as a pediatrician?  I imagine it must be very rewarding."  The first question allows your date to simply say, "I'm a doctor," but the other two require a bit more thought and introspection, leading to a more thoughtful conversation… and perhaps a second date.

Other questions that might come in handy:

-       What do you generally like to do after work?

-       What made you decide to move to the Philly area, and how do you enjoy it?

-       How was your day?  (Often overlooked, but a great conversation-starter.)

-       What kinds of things do you like to read for pleasure?  Have you read anything good lately that you would recommend?

-       What would be your perfect Sunday?

Remember that this is a date, not an interview, so try to avoid acting like you're judging the other person based on his or her answers.  (Maybe you are, but keep that to yourself!)  It's best to stay away from the stereotypical interview questions like, "What is the hardest thing you've ever accomplished?" or "Tell me about a time where you were challenged to do something you felt was wrong?"  These questions are scary, whether at an interview or a date.  Don't put the person on the spot.  Rather, ask something that he or she already knows or can at least have a fun time thinking about.

Dating is about both talking and listening.  The date should be a give and take, with you asking some questions and your date asking some questions.  What you say is just as important as your ability to listen.  And what will you be listening to?  The answers to these fabulous questions you'll ask!

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Erika Ettin is the Founder of A Little Nudge, where she helps people navigate the world of online dating. Her services include: writing unique profiles to get you noticed, helping to choose your best profile pictures, writing one-of-a-kind emails to get someone's attention, and planning dates. A Little Nudge has been featured in The Washington Post, NPR, Talk Philly, Good Day Philadelphia, JMag (JDate's online magazine), and Ask Men. Want to connect with Erika? Join her newsletter for updates and tips.