A blind date starts with one thing you both share: the person who set you up. Begin there. Ask how they know your friend and what made them say yes, then move to everyday topics like food, weekends and where they live. Save the questions about who they are for when the conversation has found its feet.
Start with the setup
You probably arrive knowing a few details passed on by a friend, and those details were likely flattering. Talking about the setup gives you something to laugh about together and takes the pressure off the first few minutes. Leave room for the person in front of you to be different from the description.
If the answers stay short
The other person may be nervous or tired, or you may simply not click. Switch to a lighter topic, such as a favorite restaurant or what they are watching. These ask less of someone than questions about family or values. If the conversation never picks up, finish politely. Neither of you owes the other a second date.
What your friend couldn’t tell you
The friend who set you up knows each of you separately. They can’t know how you’ll get on. Use the date to find out the things they couldn’t see: whether the other person likes to plan or decide on the day, how much they like to text, and what they find funny.
At the end of the date
If you’d like to see them again, say so before you leave: “I had a good time. Would you like to do this again?” If they aren’t interested, you’ll know now rather than after a week of waiting.
Meet somewhere public, and get yourself there and home on your own terms. A date arranged by a friend is still a meeting with a stranger.
For your next meeting, try second date questions. First date questions work for any first meeting, however it was arranged.