Whether you are a schoolboy spending his allowance or a high-powered executive, a first date with someone new is always an awkward event.

There is little you can do to make the butterflies in your stomach quit their fluttering. But there are a few things you can do to ensure that the date goes well and sets you on your way to future, far more relaxed, meetings.

Keep it simple
When making the date, try to make plans that are fun and different, but keep it simple and don't plan for a whole day or evening event. The first meeting should be casual. Going out for coffee or a light dinner, perhaps. If it is a disaster from hello, you will want to be able to cut your losses and go home - something that may not be an option at a five-star restaurant.

Timeliness is next to godliness
Be clear about the date, time and place you are to meet. Being on time is crucial if you are to make a good impression, so if you are unfamiliar with the location, get directions and leave a little early to allow for possibly getting lost. Always, for safety's sake, take your own car and make sure friends or family know where you are going and who you will be with.

The good humor man (and woman)
Even though you may be nervous, maintain your sense of humor. Good humor is an ice breaker and an important asset to display. Use the first date to explore the interests and hobbies your date has. Just make sure the information flows as lively conversation and doesn't come across as an interview or interrogation. Smile, be confident and be friendly. Try to be honest - act and say how you really feel about them and whatever topics of conversation may arise.

A fashion accessory you won't need
Don't wear your heart of your sleeve. There are some things in your personal life that people don't need to know when they first meet you. Keep a positive attitude during conversation and don't dwell on past relationships or other negative aspects of life. Don't focus the conversation all on yourself. Listening is as important as telling. Don't drone on about past relationships, children, pets, sports accomplishments or sexual prowess.

Be presentable, but remember its not the prom
Dress neatly and conservatively. Save your torn jeans, T-shirts and sneakers for some other time. By the same token, don't get too fancy. Your killer Armani suit and silk power tie may be overkill for a trip to the movies and send the wrong message.

Check, please
When the date comes to an end, be honest with your date. If it went well, say so. But don't mislead by saying you would like to see him or her again if it is not true. If you really don't want to see this person again, gently tell them that it is not going to work out. A courteous way to get your message across may be saying something like: "I enjoyed this evening, but I don't really think we have that much in common."

By the same token, don't out-of-hand dismiss the possibility for a relationship simply because the first date wasn't filled with thrills and animal magnetism. Sometimes it takes time for a relationship to mature and reach its potential.