The following article is a guest post, courtesy of Lily Rudolph

Yep, we have all been there:
“So what do you do?”
“I work in (not very interesting office job)”
“Really, I work for (similarly dull business)”
Then the silence grows as you rack your brain for questions to ask each other.  Of course you are supposed to stay away from controversial topics like politics, sex, and religion.  Talking about family and future goals seems heavy for a first date, but that doesn’t mean the conversation has to be boring.  Here are 4 interesting conversation topics that will keep you chatting on your first date.
1. Traveling

Just the thought of travel takes your mind to a new place.  Share stories about places you have visited and cultural experiences you have had.  Allow yourself to get wistful.  I know it might seem silly to tell your date about your dream of sailing around the world or visiting the moon, especially if you are the super-logical type, but once you get lost in conversation the date will feel more comfortable and fun.  For a little inspiration check out Amazing Places  by The Cool Hunter.
2. Shared Interests

Whether you share an affinity for climbing, surfing, cooking, knitting or anime conventions, talking about shared interests will bring you closer together and might even give you ideas for future dates.  If you can’t think of a favorite past time maybe it’s time to start a new one.  Check out these tips for hobby hunting in A Beautiful Mess, an awesome blog by Elise and Emma Larsen.
3. Things That Used to be in Style

This only really works if you were born in the same part of the world in the same generation, but talking about your favorite childhood TV shows and the fashion you grew up with will allow you to relate to each other’s memories.  For ideas check out BuzzFeed Rewind.  If you grew up in the 80’s, Like Totally 80’s will be a total blast from the past.
4. If You Were Stranded on a Desert Island blah blah blah

Okay so that one is a bit played out, but creative questions can be fun.  My favorites are: If you were to design a restaurant what would it be like?  If you were born into a different decade what decade would you choose?  If you could sleep with one dead celebrity (in their prime of course) who would it be and why?
Most importantly, remember to be creative.  Use these dating tips as guidelines that you can branch off from, let the conversation flow naturally, and have fun!