Kenyan men have been accused of being terrible at romance. The first date decides whether you have a chance for a second date or not. They are not keen on dressing up and making the first impression. That's why most Kenyan women are looking for suitors from abroad; let's say Nigeria. In as much this area is debatable, I'd like to lay down my thoughts crystal clear. I have a few pointers that Kenyan men can follow. Here are my top 10 tips on avoiding getting dumped on the first day.

1. Keep time

This may not be a business meeting, but the first impression matters. A friend of mine told me that ladies are allowed to be late - up to 15 minutes for that matter. As a gentleman, this will show that you're keen on kicking off a serious relationship with your girl. However, do not try too much to impress; arriving two hours earlier and blowing off her phone, asking where she is. It'll put her off. She may not even turn up.

2. Pay the bill

Don't confuse weird for different. Do not expect your lady to pay for the bill the first time you meet. Take this kind of scenario into consideration; you don't carry enough funds to the restaurant or lounge. During clearance time, you start asking her to chip in and fund your date. She'll be forced to cover for you and will never look at you the same way. Are we on the same page?

3. Eye contact

When talking to her, make sure you look into her eyes. It should work well for you. It should be convincingly genuine. This will make her feel appreciated and that you do not regret inviting her. It will also show that you are sure of what you are talking about and that you are not making promises for the sake of it. It will show that you are intelligent enough to deliver an interesting conversation.

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4. Be calm and collected

This goes hand in hand with number 5. Try not to fidget or throw hands like a rapper due to excitement or lack of confidence. Converse like a real gentleman. Use allusions, funny narratives and a touch of current issues - that are of interest to her - to keep the conversation going. This will also compel her to open up...let you know more about her and ultimately you'll end up having fun...both of you.

5. Confidence

This can be largely influenced by the way you dress for the occasion. Dress up like you're attending a ball; be semi-casual but sharp. If you love suits, make sure that the outfit goes well with your accessories, the weather, and the general ambiance. Do not show up looking like a polar bear when you are having a date at the top floor of a 5-star hotel in town or during a hot day.

6. Don't talk much

This goes hand in hand with number 7. Please give the lady a chance to contribute to the conversation. It will make her feel important and that you're not trying to be the bigger person in your relationship. Make her feel that she has something to bring into the relationship you're trying to start. In this case, try to ask her open-ended questions and let her respond.

7. Don't give too much information

Don't start dictating what you expect from her. Avoid the 'wife material' kind of conversations or you will not get a second date. Do not touch on sex life issues; demanding to know such details will derail your motives and you'll end up single forever. In fact, keep the stories as light as possible.

8. Keep away your devices

Once your date comes through the door, put the phone or tablet away. Pull the chair for her and warmly welcome her. Avoid posting instant Instagram pictures or picking calls that can wait. This is your moment to make a lasting impression. Do not let you 'quarry' sleep away. Let her know that you are a gentleman of inner decorum and not those boys who are always chasing after successful women.

9. Don't ogle at other women

This should be a no-no. Once you start heading for natural tendencies - of looking at other women - she will get the impression that you're a player. That you'll cheat on her openly. That you might get violent when she questions you as her boyfriend and so forth. If you manage to keep this habit at bay, you might nail your maiden date...the best way possible.

10. Table manners

One of the most basic habits to observe is not to talk while chewing your food. You'll need to be yourself, especially with the steak. Do not drop a whole chicken wing while trying to fight it. Use your hands but in a dignified manner.

Looking for the perfect outfit? Click next to find out where to get one. >>

For the best outfits to wear for a date, you'll need to check through your wardrobe for a ground-breaking outfit. If you do not have something special to wear for the big day, you can as well shop. Online shopping is the most convenient way to get a perfect outfit since there are many collections to choose from and a wide price range to look at. The delivery system also makes sure that you do not waste hours searching for such an outfit.

is one of the best malls I know that can give you value for your money. They have the most cost-effective products in the market. All you need to do is to go to their men apparel section and chose what works for you.

Good luck on your first date!