Probably. You're probably breaking the biggest date rule of them all: learn how to communicate. Learning how to communicate effectively is the single best way of getting asked out on a second date. Communicating badly, which can be done in several different ways, is a surefire way to mess up any date, regardless of how much thought and effort you've put into trying to make it a success.

What you need to remember when going out on a date is that you want the other person to get a better idea of the kind of person you are, without talking too much or too little. People who talk about themselves too much, are a real turn off. Not only that, but they're annoying. For some people it's in their nature to talk about themselves, and yet other people babble, because they're nervous, which is natural. Instead, get the other person to talk about himself or herself, and maintain some mystery. By doing this, the other person will want a second date, just to learn more about you.

Talking too little is another surefire way to mess up any date. Your dating partner doesn't want to go out on a date with a manikin! They want you to talk, make them laugh and they want to get a little insight into who you are and what you're all about. Make it easier for them, and open up a little.

People love to laugh. Laughter is infectious, and sexy. This doesn't mean you have to be the next Chris Rock, it just means you should try to loosen up and enjoy yourself. Tell your date a few funny stories or a joke to liven things up a bit. If you can make him or her laugh, you're half way to getting a second date.

Just remember to be yourself. A surefire way to mess up any date is to be a fake, which is another communication problem. Be confident, slightly mysterious and make them laugh. Those are the keys to any successful date and the path towards a second.

• Smile. Smiling is the easiest way to look approachable. Can you actually engage in an animated conversation with someone who sulks and frowns all the time? The situation will be downright uncomfortable and daunting, not to mention that it's big turn off. Smiling makes the other person smile back. So create a lighter aura so as not to scare your date away.

• Talk and listen. This is a no-brainer. Of course we all need to talk and listen in a conversation. But more often than not, we tend to just talk and talk and let the other party drown to nowhere. Listen genuinely and understand what they're saying. This could lead you to more topics and more opportunity to have a good time conversing.

• Have a sense of humor. Be funny. Make her laugh. Nothing beats a guy who knows how to be laidback and crack a joke. Girls will always have a soft spot for funny dudes who are witty and can make them smile. That's probably in every girl's criteria in a guy. So quit talking about something that will make you feel downtrodden. Loosen up and remember you're on a date. Enjoy the evening.