Men are just as nervous about dates as women, they are just better at hiding it.  If you are a single guy looking to start dating and hopefully meet a potential mate, a little guidance will be in order. 
Dating is not the same social ritual that it used to be a decade ago.  It has become more of a gruelling training for marriage or whatever qualifies as a long term relationship.

Here are some points worth taking note of when going out on dates:

Get real and stay honest.  What women are looking for these days are men who can be honest with them about almost anything.  If for instance you did not have too great a time on the date and you are not likely to call her again, do not make the mistake of letting her believe that you will.  This is just considered a very distasteful behavior.

Chivalry is not dead.  While men are no longer expected to go through all courtship rituals in order to land a woman, it is still considered a good thing when you open a door for your date or offer to pick up the check for the meal.  Showing a woman that you can take care of her would earn you at least a hundred positive points and might very well earn you a second date as well.

Never talk about age or money.  When men are out with older or less successful women, it is a very bad mistake to ask about how old she is or how much money she makes.  It is just a can of worms waiting to mess up the date so better leave it alone.  However, do not be afraid to tell her about how successful you are because this fact is very important to women especially those who are looking to settle down soon. 

Ease up on the liquor.  It is never a good idea to get drunk while you are on a date, let alone a first date.  Three glasses of wine is the maximum for dinner dates and if you are taking a lady out to lunch, try to limit your consumption to just one.  If you are nervous and need not to be, try other means that do not involve lowering all of your inhibitions.

When it comes to dating, you need to have all your bases covered to ensure maximum fun, and perhaps even the prospect of a long term relationship.