We kiss and tell! TRIED & TESTED DATING GUIDE

Newly single? Divorced? Widowed? If you’re looking to dip your toes back in the dating pool, psychologist Dr Angela Ahola has all you need to know

Newly single after a long marriage, psychologist Dr Angela Ahola decided to throw herself into the world of dating and embarked on an experiment: she went on 100 different dates to learn as much as she could about what makes a successful encounter – and what doesn’t.

Listen to your gut!

We tend to make fairly accurate assessments of people in the first few minutes of meeting them. Be careful not to let someone’s charm distract you from your instincts about their character.

ANGELA'S TOP TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL DATE

● Don’t talk all the time without pausing or listening to your date.

● Don’t talk exclusively about yourself.

● Don’t smell bad. Come showered and clean – good hygiene is a must. Check that breath too.

● No dirty clothes.

● Never talk about an ex or anyone else you’ve been romantically involved with.

● Never talk about previous sexual escapades or your sexual prowess.

● Don’t sit tongue-tied so that your date is forced into a monologue.

● Ask questions back. You’re not being interviewed – it’s a conversation. Avoid speeches, interrogations or any other unbalanced communication.

● Don’t interrupt. Let your date finish their thoughts and leave a little pause in the air. After a moment, you’ll know it’s your turn.

● Don’t stress the time. Avoid planning dates for when you’ve got a million other things to do.