Dating tips for men wouldn't seem like something you have to read about in an article; after all, you can ask your buddies for their advice, right? But perhaps that's why so many of your buddies are still single. These days it seems like the rules of dating have become so complicated that the basics have been forgotten. To make it a little bit easier, here are some basic dating tips for men that are guaranteed to make things easier – and they're back to basics rules that every woman will appreciate.

Make Eye Contact

So many men today forget that conversation isn't just about words. Women put a high value on communication that goes beyond words, and if you focus on impressing, talking and showing yourself in the best light, you may not be focusing on her. Eye contact assures her that she has your undivided attention – something every woman wants on a date. It reassures her that the night is about her and her alone.

Remember to Ask Questions and Listen to Her Answers

Yes, you want her to get to know you. You'll have plenty of opportunity to let her get to know you if you get to know her on those first few dates. You should certainly answer her questions and give input to the conversation, but make sure you ask her about what she likes and what she's interested in. Don't forget to get her opinion rather than just giving yours – and if you disagree on a particular subject, that's fine. Debating an interesting topic in a relaxed manner will show you're intelligent and that you respect her opinion. For Pete's sake, don't insist on changing her mind – respect her independence.

Be Yourself

This sounds so simplistic, but I'm astounded by the number of men who try show off how successful and important they are by inflating their job titles, salary, etc. early on in a relationship. Do you really want to get caught in this type of charade weeks or even months down the line? If she's really the one for you, she'll respect what you do and who you are. Far better to find out now than later. Especially if you really have it for the girl later, and she dumps you for being deceitful. If you remember any dating tips for men, this is the absolute most important.

Flowers on the First Date?

Save the flowers and grand gestures for after the first few dates. This is one of those dating tips for men that may come as a shock to a lot of you, but flowers on the very first date isn't nearly as impressive as flowers or some other gift a few dates down the line. On the first date, a woman will assume you bring flowers to every first date, so it's a relatively empty gesture. Gallant, but not triggered by your feelings for her. On your third or fourth date, she'll be wowed by a small gift or bouquet. Why? Because you've taken the time and thought to bring her something after you've already known she'll go out with you. It means the gesture is heart-felt – it's all about the way she makes you feel.

Keep it Casual

Another dating tip for a single man that's often overlooked is to keep it casual. You don't have to make the first date the most impressive and romantic in the world. After all, it's difficult to go up if you start at the top – what will you do for an encore on an anniversary or special occasion? Instead, go out for coffee or drinks on the first date. If you definitely want it to be dinner, suggest someplace nice but casual, not the Ritz. You'll both be more comfortable when you aren't worrying about which fork to use or how to address the wine steward. Choose a place that's comfortable and not too loud so that you can linger and talk as long as you'd like.

Should You Talk about Work?

Avoid talking about work too much. Always remember this dating tip for men: Naturally a woman wants to know what you do, and you should give her a brief sketch. But until you know a woman really well, don't give a long dissertation on the last deal you landed. You'll either sound like you're bragging or she'll think you're obsessed with your job. Neither image is appealing.

Show Up on Time

Don't ever, ever keep a woman waiting on you – it doesn't build anticipation. It makes you appear inconsiderate and self-centered. If something happens and you can't avoid running late, be sure to call ahead and apologize and let her know so that she isn't sitting at home stewing.

Call When You Say You Will

(Here's an online dating tip for men: The same applies to logging on – if you have plans to “meet” by Instant Message – be there.) No woman ever wants to feel like she was humored and then brushed off. If you say you will call next week, call next week. Not the week after, or the next month. When you do that, it screams, “I was keeping you on the back burner just in case nothing better came along.” If you aren't interested in another date, don't promise anything. Simply say, “I had a nice time. Good night.” Promising something you have no intention of following through on is guaranteed to hit the female grapevine, and your name will be Mudd.

If you keep these seven dating tips for men in mind, you'll be successful in dating as many, or as few, women as you want to. And if you continue to follow them, you're much more likely to win the woman of your dreams.