You can meet a potential date at school, work, a grocery store, a bar, or in other social situations. Smiling also releases endorphins that make you happier and can make other people react in a positive way. [4] X Research source Maintain eye contact for two to three seconds before looking away. If you look back and the person is still looking in your direction, this is a good sign that they meant to lock eyes with you. [5] X Research source
If the person smiles back, it’s a good indicator that they wouldn’t mind your company. If they hold your gaze for more than two seconds, it’s a good sign that they would talk to you. If they avoid your gaze, look uncomfortable, or avoid you altogether, this is a sign that they aren’t interested.
For example, you can say something like, “Hey, my name’s Alex. This band rocks. What do you think of them?” Pay close attention to their body language and facial expressions. If they look disgusted, disinterested, or frightened, you may not want to introduce yourself.
You can enhance your listening skills by summarizing or repeating something that the person said. For example, if they explain how they liked a band before they went mainstream, you can say something like, “So what you’re saying is that you liked their underground sound more than their poppy new music, right?” Some good starter questions include: What do you like to do in your spare time? What kind of music do you prefer? Are you a student? Do you like art? or What’s your favorite movie? However, don’t plainly ask the question by itself. Integrate it into the conversation. For example say, “I just saw the new Guillermo Del Toro film and thought it was amazing. What movies do you like?” If you’re feeling nervous, try preparing some questions ahead of time. That could help you feel more confident once the conversation starts. [10] X Expert Source Louie FelixDating Coach & Matchmaker Expert Interview. 5 May 2020.
If they avoid eye contact altogether and have short responses, you should take this as a sign to leave.
You can say something like, “I had a fun time talking to you. Do you want to do this again?” Try having a specific date in mind when you ask the person out. For instance, you might want to say, “Do you want to grab some pizza with me after work next week?” or “There’s a concert coming up, do you want to be my date?” Consider a date that includes some type of activity, like playing trivia or riding bikes. That way, you’ll have plenty to keep you engaged throughout the whole date, which can help you avoid any awkward silences. [11] X Expert Source Louie FelixDating Coach & Matchmaker Expert Interview. 5 May 2020.
You can start the conversation by saying, “Have you been dating around recently or just hanging out by yourself?” You can also say, “I thought you were still seeing Derrick. Are you not together anymore?” If you’ve noticed that the person isn’t regularly in a relationship, ask them something like, “I notice that you don’t date that often. Are you trying to concentrate on your studies instead?” Do your best to talk to them so that they open up and start talking about their romantic desires. Sometimes people don’t date because they are busy with school or work, have recently got out of a relationship, or are enjoying their time being single. Some single people may want to stay single.
If you are platonic friends, asking your friend out may upset them. If you are playful and flirtatious, the chances are that the chemistry already exists.
If they like staying inside, you can watch a movie on the TV instead of going out. If they like to party, you can take them to the club or bar. If they are interested in theater, you can search for shows coming up in your area.
You can say something like, “Hey, I know you like plays and Wicked is coming into town. Would you like to go with me next Friday?” If they can’t go because of their schedule, ask them if they can go at a different time or date.
In text you could write, “Hey. I’m going to see Spiderman this weekend. Would you want to come with me?” If they don’t respond, don’t obsess over it. Wait a couple of hours before sending them a follow-up text.
You can say something like, “Hey, I really like Mark, but I’m too nervous to ask him out. Do you think you could ask if he’d meet up after school for me?” Sometimes if you let a friend know that you like someone, the person that you like will reach out to you themselves if they feel the same way.
You can also frame the question like it was their idea. For example, you can ask “What’s the best Mexican restaurant around here?” If they respond, “La Tacerquio,” you can say, “Sounds good. Do you want to go with me on Thursday for lunch?”
