The dating scene can be a challenge, especially when you're about to embark on the unknown with someone new. It's not always easy to communicate with someone in situations that build pressure, and first dates do just that. The things said, and the responses given in conversations can determine whether or not there will be dates to follow. Below, I have addressed a few ways to possibly help ease the stress and tension when it comes to conversation starters.

First dates make people anxious and nervous, so it's not unlikely that the conversation on a first date will be awkward. In the beginning of the date ask simple questions, just to get things rolling. Inquire about your date's hobbies, occupation, likes and dislike. Remember, the both of you are still in the "getting to know you stage." It's perfectly fine to keep it simple. Often, one topic can lead to the next topic, and that can solve any problems of silence.

Once you've covered the basics, it's not always obvious where to take the conversation next. One thing you want to try and avoid is questions that only have one worded answers. You both want to feel comfortable on the date. If the answers to the questions are minimal, then neither person is going to feel relaxed. Also, one worded answers can give the impression that you're just not interested. The case may be that it's only your nervousness working against you, but it could appear otherwise to your date.

One thing to remember is that while people love to talk about themselves, it's also important to listen. It's very attractive to have a date that makes direct eye contact with you. It's a sign that he or she is attentively paying attention to what you're saying.

Keep the topics to your conversations light. You don't want your discussions to get too controversial on the first date. While politics and religion can make for a good debate it can also cause the situation to get heated. You may want to save that for another time.

Another good thing to avoid is talking about past relationships. You're on a date to talk about yourself and find out if you both have similar interests. It's a huge turn-off sitting there having to listen to stories about someone's ex. Conversing about past relationships can make it seem like you're comparing your date to someone else, or that your feelings for your past love may still be there. In either case, that could start things off on the wrong foot.