One of the most nerve wracking parts of getting into a relationship is winning over your boyfriend’s friends and family. You know that his loved ones’ opinions are important to him, so you want to do all that you can to get them to like you. Read below for some tips to get them on your side.
Good First Impression
Remember the quote, “You never have a second chance to make a first impression.” When you’re meeting your boyfriend’s friends and family (particularly his parents) you need to make a good first impression, because otherwise you’re going to have trouble changing their opinion about you. Find out some background information about his loved ones so that you have an idea of what you’re in for. Even though they probably know who you are, introduce yourself and shake their hands. Remember to be attentive during conversations, and go out of your way to be polite to them. It never hurts to tell them that you’ve heard great things about them.
Act Interested
Whether you’re talking to his friends or family, show them that you’re interested in what they have to say – if they’re important to your boyfriend then they should be important to you. If your relationship gets more serious you’re going to have to see a lot of these people, so you want them to think that you’re an all-around good catch. Both his friends and family will most likely tell you funny stories about your boyfriend, so share a few laughs and listen to them reminisce. Don’t reply to them with one word answers because you’ll seem bored. Share your own memories to try to relate to them better. If his parents try to show you picture albums or home videos that is a sign that they’re trying to bond with you.
Watch What You Say
You do not need to walk on eggshells around your boyfriend’s loved ones but there are certain things that you just shouldn’t say. Never under any circumstances should you talk about sex in front of his parents – even if you’re joking around, it’s just awkward. Try to sound like you're intelligent and avoid cussing in front of them. Don’t talk about how you’ve been unfaithful to boyfriends in the past, or any issues that will raise red flags about your character. Also, don’t share stories that are going to you’re your family sound creepy. Think of talking to them as a campaign for yourself, try to exclude the negative points and emphasize the positive ones.
Treat Him Nicely
It’s okay to playfully poke fun at your boyfriend in front of his family and friends, but you shouldn’t make a mockery of him. Remember, it’s totally different when his buddies or siblings make fun of him, but you’re his girlfriend so you should be on his side. His family and friends want him to be with someone that is going to treat him nicely and take care of him, so they’re not going to find it amusing if you appear to make him feel bad. Show them that you like him and care about him, and that you want to make him feel good about himself.
Minimal PDA
When you’re in front of his parents and the rest of his family, engage in a minimal amount of PDA. It’s okay to hold hands and give the occasional peck on the lips, but his family will not like it if you start making out with him in front of them. It is true that you’re both adults but they are still his family and it is disrespectful. Save the steamy moves for the bedroom.
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