Girls can be a fickle bunch; willing to give a guy the brush-off for the slightest indiscretion; whether it be the way you rock that socks and sandals combo (your mum thinks its cute) or your Action Man doll (oops sorry, I meant 'action figure' collection). There are women out there who may love those things but there are going to be lots and lots... and lots, who don't.

There are some turn-offs that are avoidable and I'm going to give you the run-down on some of them. Read them, memorise them, use them and you will stand yourself the best pulling chances by reducing your personal 'turn-off rating'.

Manners Maketh The Man

With good manners you'll go far...maybe even all the way if you're lucky. Now I'm not suggesting that you throw your coat on the ground so she can walk over puddles, it is 2008 after all, but a woman will notice if you don't cover the basics. Open doors for her but don't make a big deal out of it. Simply open the door and let her walk through it.

No need to shout 'Ladies first' and please don't let the door slam into the face of the little old lady behind you. She'll also make mental notes on how you treat other people, as well as her. Bad manners are a real no-no and a definite turn off.

Say Hello To My Little Friend

We all know that mobile phones are indispensable gadgets; but they can also be a real turn off. If you're permanently attached to yours, your prospective chick will be unimpressed. Bare with me though guys because this one can be a little complicated; if your phones always off when you're together she may think your hiding something.
On the other hand if you have to say 'hold on I need to take this call' too often on a date, she'll be gone before you can press re-dial.

How Clean Is Your House

I once dated a guy and things were going well until I visited his house for the first time...calling it a mess is understating it. Firstly, I was confused. Secondly, I never saw him again. If you're going through renovation work, fair enough. If you're just a really mucky pup, employ a cleaner. Dirt is not a turn on for women whether its dirt on you or dirt covering your sheets. Either way it's not good so get cleaning you dirty boy.

Scary McHairy

Rugs belong on the living room floor, not your back. If you have a little hair, that's fine, many women will not be put off by it at all. However, if your back resembles shag-pile carpet circa 1971, book yourself an appointment with the nearest beautician pronto. On second thoughts, while you're there get that nasal and ear hair sorted too.

So there you go lads, follow my advice and you'll at least be able to get your foot in the door. I can't guarantee success with the ladies; that's down to you my son.

See you next month.

Written by donna@crumbsformen.com