When out on a date, truly fabulous girls don't talk about themselves all the time.

They ask a man open-ended questions and act as though whatever he says is fascinating. And until they know him really well, they won't embarrass themselves by talking about any of these:

Health problems
Neither your ovarian cysts nor your Uncle's colon surgery will contribute much towards setting a romantic mood. And, for heaven's sake save your periods/acne/dandruff stories for your girlfriends. Guys really don't want to know.

Ex-boyfriends
Avoid any mention of exes at all. Talking too much about a past relationship will only reveal your flaws. He doesn't need to know your last boyfriend was a loser. There's no need tether yourself to the past. If he knows all your dating foibles, he's more likely to lose interest.

Daily grind
Face facts – most of what you did today wasn't very exciting – at least, not to a man you don't know very well yet. Domestic mishaps, you nephew's antics, the squabble at the office and your addiction to Isidingo will inspire more yawns than a sleeping pill.

Have you ever experienced a bad date? Tell us about it in the box below.