SAY WHAT?!

SIX PHRASES THAT WILL HELP YOU ON A DATE:

#1.) "Tell me more about it". Once you go beyond small talk and delve into a meatier topic . . . like a problem she's struggling with at work . . . it's important to refrain from offering up a quick "fix". Instead, encourage your date to keep talking by saying, "Tell me more about it."

--It's not that you should never share your brilliant ideas to fix your date's problems . . . you just have to give them a chance to vent for awhile.

#2.) "What are the reasons for your opinion?". Eventually you and your date are going to disagree on something, whether it's an important issue like the war in Iraq, or something trivial like the state of BRAD PITT and ANGELINA JOLIE'S relationship.

--When you find yourselves butting heads over a particular topic, it's okay to share your thoughts . . . just do so after you've asked your date about the REASONS behind their opinion. It'll make the difference between an engaging conversation and an instant turn-off.

#3.) "I never thought of it that way". After your date has explained their viewpoint on anything from a current event to a celeb's behavior, think about their comment and say, "I never thought of it that way."

--Saying this doesn't mean you think your date is a genius, it just shows that you're being influenced by their thoughts and opinions. And once someone senses that you respect their ideas, they may be more willing to open up to you in other ways. . . if you know what I mean and I think you do.

#4.) "How did it go?". Sooner or later, your date may mention an upcoming event that's important to them, like an upcoming promotion, a relative's triple-bypass operation, or a best friend's wedding.

--Take note when they mention these events, since they'll turn into prime opportunities to show your date you were listening later with a, "So how did that promotion/surgery/wedding go?" --While it may seem obvious to follow up on stuff like this, it's easy to forget, especially if the events aren't a matter of life-and-death.

#5.) "You're a really generous person". Many people, especially men, are quick with the compliments: "You have the most gorgeous eyes," "You look great in that dress." Sure, your date will love it, at first. But then the compliments wear off and so does their interest in you.

--The problem is that you're focused on superficial qualities when people often prefer to be recognized for who they are on the inside. So try complimenting an internal quality by saying something like, "It was so thoughtful of you to go out of your way to meet me here."

#6.) "I admire that". Everyone loves to be admired, so look for opportunities to make your date feel proud.

--If your date shares a story about how they took a risk, switched jobs and ended up in a better position, tell them, "That takes courage. I admire that." Or if your date tells you a story about how they got a friend out of a bind, say, "I admire that kind of loyalty." (Happen Magazine)