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Know the odds are in your favor -

Your significant other's parents are actually rooting for you. In the end, they want the best for their child, so they truly want to like you. Just show up and shine!

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Feel confident about how you look -

Remember, first impressions stick, so take the time to select an appropriate outfit for the occasion. But make sure it's still in line with who you really are. 

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Offer a small gift -

It's always a nice gesture to bring something when meeting someone for the first time. Especially if you've been invited over to their place.

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Prepare in advance -

Before meeting the in-laws, make an effort to learn more about them. Ask your partner questions about them, and you'll be ready to engage in topics they enjoy.

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Find common ground -

As the conversation evolves, feel free to talk about yourself when meeting the in-laws. If they share any similar interests, let them know.

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Center the conversation around them -

However, don't get caught up in having your in-laws learn about you. This is the chance for you to learn about them. So instead of rambling about yourself, direct the conversation to things they want to talk about.

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Offer help -

If you see them setting the table or doing the dishes, offer to help them out. Actively helping will demonstrate your level of altruism, work ethic, and respect for others.

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Be yourself -

In the end, it's best to just be yourself. Don’t be afraid to tell a funny joke and get your in-laws laughing. Your personality will shine through.

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Avoid checking email or answering text messages -

If there’s one time you should stay tech-free and focused, it’s when meeting the in-laws for the first time. Too much time on the phone will make your in-laws think you don't appreciate their time.

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Let them know you love their son or daughter -

Your partner’s parents want to know that you love their child. But make sure to avoid too much PDA when meeting them. A kiss on the cheek, holding hands, or putting an arm around them is okay. But anything more than that is a big no-no.

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Don't forget eye contact -

Make sure to maintain eye contact, as this is something that your future in-laws will pick up on. It can also greatly improve your chances of creating a good first impression.

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Be attentive to your partner -

This is a good opportunity to show your in-laws how much their child’s well-being is in good hands. This will make them trust you more as well.

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Remember your manners -

Being courteous and polite will go a long way to helping you make the best impression. So don't forget your "please" and "thank you."

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Avoid controversial topics -

This isn't the time to debate on politics and/or religion. This is purely to avoid any potential for conflict if you have vastly differing views to each other.

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Do not take things personally -

Your in-laws may test you to see how you react to certain situations. Even their comments may be a little provoking, so make sure you stay calm. Unless things get out of hand, don't place your partner in a position where they have to pick sides.

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Ask for their advice -

Your in-laws will want to be valued in your life. One way to show that they matter to you is by asking for their thoughts and advice.

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Be especially polite if you are in public -

Your in-laws will be paying extra attention to how you treat your partner and everyone else around. For example, if you're having dinner out, make sure to not criticize the food or to be rude to the server.

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Body language -

Pay attention to the way you sit and fidget. Body language is a powerful communicator, and these are things your in-laws will pick up on.

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Call them by their preferred name -

Start out by calling them Mr. or Mrs. They might ask you to call them by their first names. Make sure to call them by their preferred name.

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Compliment them -

Try giving them compliments on their home or on their outfit. Compliments like these are another way of showing your in-laws that you’re giving them your attention.

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Don't complain about your own family -

Just like you shouldn’t badmouth former employers during a job interview, you shouldn't do the same about your own family while meeting your in-laws for the first time. This will leave them wondering if you're going to talk about them behind their back in the same way.

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Have a one-on-one chat -

If you're at a big gathering, try to get a moment to chat alone with one or both of your in-laws. It doesn't have to be a big talk, but it will show you feel comfortable around them.

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Let them know how nice it was to meet them -

Take a moment before you leave to tell them you had a great time. Let them know that you hope to see them again soon.

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Relax -

While it's understandable that you'll be nervous, make sure you manage to relax and have fun. You only get one chance to meet someone for the first time, so make it memorable.

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Respect their rules -

If your in-laws live far away, and you have to stay over, they might be old-fashion and want you to sleep in separate bedrooms. Respect their rules.

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Set up a time and place -

Choose a time that is convenient for everyone, and pick a place that is easy for all family members to get to. It could be a restaurant or even your place.

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Start conversations that show you’re interested -

Once you know what your in-laws are interested in, make sure to ask them about that. You can ask about their hobbies, home, and even family history.

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Try the food, even if you don’t think you’ll like it -

If your in-laws have invited you over for dinner, actually trying the food will show you respect them and appreciate the invitation. So even if it's something you don't normally eat, try it (although if you have dietary restrictions, advise them beforehand).

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Follow up -

Consider sending a follow-up "thank you" text or note after you meet them for the first time. These small gestures are highly appreciated. 

Sources: (WeddingWire) (Easy Weddings)

See also: Stereotypical family members at every gathering 

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