Your new boyfriend is a total catch, but there is one problem: your parents can’t stand him! What do you do when your new man just can’t seem to get it together to impress your family? If you know he’s a great guy and just lousy with first impressions, here are four foolproof ways you can convince your parents to give the relationship their seal of approval:
1. Create a new playing field:
Not all guys can be charming when meeting the parents. If he didn’t impress your family at a big and fancy sit-down dinner, chances are they won’t be impressed at the next dinner. Instead of setting him up for failure, let your parents hang out with your boyfriend somewhere he is more comfortable. For example, if he’s an athlete, take your parents to see him play a soccer game. If he’s a musician, take them to see one of his gigs. If your parents see him doing something he is passionate about, good ol’ mom and dad might get a glimpse of why you are so infatuated in the first place. If he is more in his element, he’s more likely to impress.
2. Pick out his clothes:
Sure he might not be thrilled about the idea, but bringing a polished boyfriend around won’t hurt your parent’s perception of him. I’m not saying make him wear a tie to your house, but clean clothes would be a plus. If he looks like he just rolled out of bed or came from the gym, kindly suggesting a wardrobe change couldn’t hurt.
3. Complain about him to your girlfriends, not your parents:
If your new boyfriend does something stupid (Lets face it, he will) tell your friends, not your parents. Your dad doesn’t want to see his little girl being hurt by a guy, so every time you bring up a negative, your parents will be mentally keeping track. The little things he does that are annoying are better mentioned to your gal pals. If you bring up his flaws to your parents, their negative perception of him won’t change anytime soon.
4. Bring up his accomplishments in conversation:
If your guy does something really great, give him the recognition he deserves. You need your parents to see how awesome he is, so that means you’ll need to work in his achievements into your conversation. Even if it’s just the little things like him winning a soccer game, or getting an A on a test, every bit counts. If your parents aren’t sure on your taste in boys, you have to make them see what a catch he really is.
If your boyfriend is in it for the long haul and is a genuine guy, your parents will see that eventually. Sometimes it just takes time for boyfriends to grow on our parents, but with these helpful tips, your dad will be inviting him over to watch the game in no time.
Sources: weeatfilms.com