I don't find dates awkward per se but apparently a lot of people find that dynamic to be uncomfortable, especially if you've only met online.

A girl recently told me 'hey tbh I don't know if we should meet, I just feel like it will be awkward meeting someone from a dating app, sorry'

I managed to change her mind by saying something like 'I get that but personally I feel like things are only really awkward when people go into it with crazy high expectations - so lets get rid of any stupid expectations and just hang out and see how we vibe.'

But on that point, what are a few ways to make dates less awkward in your experience?

I also don't find silence awkward but seems like a lot of people do and woul drather fill the air with mindless drivel