I'm not an expert, but here's my advice: focus on getting your date to talk. The best way to do this is by asking questions.
Since it's a first date, there's a lot to learn about each other. When you ask a question, ask follow-up questions based on their answer.
For example:
- You: "Do you have any siblings?"
- Them: "No."
- You: "What was it like being an only child?" or "Were your parents super protective?"
If they say yes, ask: "How many? Older or younger? Do you get along?"
The goal is to listen to their answers and ask more questions about what they say. This makes you a great conversationalist. If one topic dies out, just start a new one.
Good topics include: work, school, family, friends, hobbies, pets, food, and travel.
Don't be afraid of a little silence. It's only awkward if you let it be. Just take a drink of water or look at the menu while you think of your next question. And most importantly, keep your phone away.
This is just my personal advice. The last time I went on a date was 8 years ago, and I’ve been happily married to her for 6 years now. So it worked for me.