Studies reveal that on average within 42 minutes and 29 seconds of a first date, most people know whether they would progress to a second date or not, proving that the first impression really does count, relying on green, red and beige flags as a cheat code for compatibility.
So what are Londoner’s top dating flags? Interested to find out, BonusFinder.co.uk surveyed over 2,000 Brits and uncovered some of the most common red, beige and green flags and discovered the best and worst dating habits we are all guilty of.
Study highlights:
-
79% of Londoners declare lack of independence as the worst red flag
-
Almost two-thirds (60%) believe being an attentive listener is the top green flag
-
Being a picky eater is the worst beige flag according to 64% of London citizens
The top red flags according to Londoners
|
Rank |
Act |
Viewed as a red flag (%) |
|
1 |
Not independent |
78.4 |
|
2 |
Only talks about themselves |
77.6 |
|
3 |
Talks about ex-partners too much |
77.2 |
|
4 |
No fashion sense |
76.2 |
|
5 |
Lazy |
72.2 |
|
6 |
Gets your name wrong |
70.9 |
|
7 |
Rude to others |
64.8 |
|
8 |
Excessive phone use |
60.4 |
|
9 |
Uses slang such as yeet, cop or bussin’ |
59.4 |
|
10 |
Doesn’t tip |
56.5 |
The most common red flag amongst Londoners is lack of independence, with an outstanding 78% voting for it. Whether they rely on their parents for too much or simply are easily influenced by others, this is a real turn-off amongst us all.
Meanwhile, in second place, 78% of respondents believe only talking about themselves earns a spot in the top three most common red flags. In third place, talking about your ex too much will put you in the bad books, with 77% of Londoners referring to it as a red flag. Having no fashion sense is almost criminal in the British fashion capital, with 76% hailing it a red flag, making it place fourth.
The fast-paced London dweller doesn’t put up with laziness, placing it in fifth, with almost three-quarters (72%) voting it a red flag, compared to the UK average of 70%.
The top green flags according to Londoners
|
Rank |
Act |
Viewed as a green flag (%) |
|
1 |
Attentive listener |
60.1 |
|
2 |
Offers to pay the bill |
46.1 |
|
3 |
Organises dates |
41.1 |
|
4 |
Shared sense of humour |
39.6 |
|
5 |
Is spontaneous |
34.0 |
|
6 |
Good manners |
32.7 |
|
7 |
Family orientated |
29.6 |
|
8 |
Remembers your likes/dislikes |
28.2 |
|
9 |
Showing enthusiasm |
27.6 |
|
10 |
Responsive/good communication |
27.1 |
According to Londoners, being attentive is the top green flag, with 60% loving being the centre of attention and their date being present in the moment.
Get your wallets ready, the age-old debate of who pays for the bill lands in second place. If you offer to pay nearly half of London (46%) award this act as the second-best green flag.
Meanwhile, being proactive and putting in the effort is a turn-on for many, with 41% of people declaring organising dates a green flag and the way to their hearts.
The top beige flags according to Londoners
|
Rank |
Act |
Viewed as a beige flag (%) |
|
1 |
Not adventurous with food |
64.4 |
|
2 |
Never been abroad |
55.3 |
|
3 |
Gives indecisive answers |
53.9 |
|
4 |
Only likes one genre of music |
53.1 |
|
5 |
Non-specific/genuine compliments |
51.5 |
|
6 |
Agrees with everything you say |
44.9 |
|
7 |
Doesn’t know their left and right |
43.1 |
|
8 |
Makes cliche statements |
40.6 |
|
=9 |
Doesn’t want to leave their hometown |
37.3 |
|
10 |
Makes a food or drink their personality (coffee, craft beer) |
36.8 |
Beige flags have taken TikTok by storm, with many flocking to the app to share their thoughts. This term refers to things that make someone a bit odd, straddling the line of being an ‘ick’. Whilst they’re not ideal, they aren’t deal breakers for most. However, it’s best to steer clear of them, especially our top spot, not being adventurous with food, no one wants to make a romantic connection over bland food with 64% of votes.
In second place sits those who lack wanderlust, not travelling abroad can definitely put off the adventurous spirit, with 55% of respondents branding it a beige flag.
Coming in third place is giving indecisive answers, not knowing where you see yourself in five years or even your favourite film can really put a downer on those hoping to find love, with 54% of Londoners declaring it a beige flag.
Featured Photo by Wiktor Karkocha on Unsplash.