The dos and don’ts – 10 top dating turn-offs

You’ve been chauffeured from your doorstep, tucked into a nice meal, whispered sweet nothings into each other’s ears and held hands across the table. All the ingredients of a desirable first date, right?

That’s right up until you’re presented the bill and given an overt look that implies it’s time for you to stump up your share.

A dating no-no? You wouldn’t be the only one to hold that view. According to a study carried out by Ocean, one in five Brits find being too stingy with cash the biggest financial turn-off in a relationship.

Now we know it’s not all about how many pennies prospective partners have in their pockets, so let’s take a look at some other traits that set alarm bells ringing.

1. Neediness

If we haven’t replied to a text after 15 minutes, this isn’t a cue to prompt us with a follow-up message containing just a question mark. There’s a fine line between showing you’re interested and coming on too strong.

2. Smombie (aka smartphone zombie)

Can’t wait to find out that football score? If you’re out on a date, think twice. If you’re desperate, at least have the courtesy to have a sneaky check while you nip to the toilet so we can’t see.

3. Cheesy chat-up lines

“If I could rearrange the alphabet, I’d put U and I together.”

“You must be tired, because you’ve been running through my mind all night.”

Please, just don’t.

4. Lateness

If we can shower, style our hair, slap some make-up on, pick the perfect outfit and still get there on time, you really don’t have much of an excuse – not one that will pass, anyway.

5. Manners

We obviously expect to be treated well, but it doesn’t stop there. It can be very off-putting dining with someone who disregards the waiting staff or chews food with their mouth gaping open.

6. Ogling other women

You know those eyes you’re using to gawk at other women? Yeah, we have a pair too, and we can see you!

7. Playing hard to get

This one’s a bit of a minefield. We don’t want needy question marks, but we also don’t want to be left in the lurch for days at a time. “Sorry, I’ve been really busy,” doesn’t suffice either – even if you’re not the most mobile savvy, a text takes a matter of minutes.

8. Missing personality

“Hey, how are you?”, “What are you up to?”, “What are you having for tea?”, “What do you think about the weather?” Not the most riveting conversations, I’m sure you’ll agree.

9. 3am phone calls

If you’ve not made the effort to speak to us all day, it’s no use ringing us in the middle of the night after you’ve had a truckload of bevvies.

10. Fibbers

There’s a hint of truth in all of the comparisons likening women to MI5. You can try to cover your tracks – we might even humour your efforts – but rest assured, we’ll always uncover the facts.