Hold your tongue and listen if a friend asks your opinion of a new boyfriend or girlfriend you may dislike, social worker Karol Ward advises. Photo courtesy of Woman's Day.

Have you ever gone on a blind date and found your date unattractive?

Or has a friend asked your opinion about a new love interest that you think is a jerk?

National Association of Social Workers member Karol Ward, MSW, and other experts offer advice on how to take your foot out of your mouth and escape such awkward situations in this article in Woman’s Day.

For instance, instead of criticizing a friend’s new love interest ask that person how they feel about their boyfriend or girlfriend and how that person treats them, Ward advises.

If your friend has concerns about the relationship this cue could get them to open up, Ward said. However if they say the relationship is going well Ward advises you to keep quiet about your negative opinions.

Social workers help people improve their relationships with others. To learn more visit the National Association of Social Workers’ “Help Starts Here” Relationships web site by clicking here.