If you're about to meet your partner's parents for the first time, you're probably feeling anxious. Yikes! This can make or break your relationship. So instead of thinking about how you'll be endlessly stuttering, think of how this meeting will set you up for the rest of your relationship. With the right amount of preparation, you'll do fine.
Speak with your partner ahead of time about their parents' expectations. Ask them to lay the groundwork for a positive encounter. If your loved one has already talked you up, you can go into the meeting feeling comfortable yet confident. Here are some ways you can make a good impression.
1. Be yourself
Don't try to be someone else just for the sake of impressing their parents. At the end of the day, it will be nothing but a lie, and you'll have to keep up the ruse for the rest of the time you know each other. Being yourself will bring you confidence, because you'll feel more comfortable. Be the person your partner fell in love with. Their parents just want to see how you are together and the happiness you provide their child.
2. Dress to impress
The second most important thing you'll need to do is dress to impress. Ask whether your partner's parents are conservative or more modern -- you don't want to offend them by showing too much skin or dressing inappropriately. Ask what their parents' expect clothing-wise. The key is to appeal to them. You don't have to change who you are and what you usually wear, but you should cater to what they want you to wear.
3. Find out what's off the table
It's imperative to understand that no matter how truthful you both are, there are some things that are better left unsaid. Before meeting the parents, align your stories, so that you don't end up looking like a bunch of liars. Perhaps you grew up in a different religion, and your partner doesn't want to bring it up until a later time. Find out what topics -- if any -- are off the table, so you don't slip up.
4. Maintain eye contact
As in any conversation, the most common rule is making eye contact. It's a simple action that is easy to forget when nerves get in the way. Be careful, however, that your eye contact does not turn into a staring contest. Simply keep your eyes focused on the triangle that is formed by the two eyes and the tip of the nose. This shows that you are sincere and confident in what you say or do. Remember that nonverbal signs of communication are just as important as (if not more important than) the things you say.
5. Prepare for the Q & A
Face it head on. If you're going to meet your partner's parents, it's only natural that you'll be asked some questions. There's nothing to worry about. Answer everything as honestly as possible and try not to fumble or show signs of nervousness. Remember that they're just curious about you and are in no way trying to interrogate you.
6. Share your plans for the future
Most parents prefer their child be with someone who has ambitions and thinks of the future with care. Share your plans for the the future -- not only career-wise, but also as a person. Talking about your prospects and outlook shows you're a goal-oriented person.
These are the most important things you when meeting your partner's parents. We wish you all the best in the world and believe us when we say: You got this!