What are some Do's and Don'ts when approaching a girl in public for the first time?

I was thinking about my past relationships today and how I've dealt with introducing myself. From what I can gather from memory, I've always either had myself introduced by a friend or have introduced myself through conversations online. Now, this was great when I was younger, however I don't want to have to rely on anyone besides myself or having to quickly swipe through tinder to strike up a conversation if I so happen to see a certain woman who peaks my interest as "Ms. right" lol. What are some do's and don'ts for approaching a prospective girlfriend in public? Ice breakers for different settings (some for the gym or college would be nice since that's where I spend most of my time in public), body language, etc. Also, please don't copy and paste any of the crap from pick up artist. Their advice is generally awful. I'll be looking forward to your replies :D

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goagainsttheflow · 26-30, F

You have to be friends with her first. Not every person aims to date right off the bat, so just talk with her as you would to a friend, even if you two just met. Get to know her, ask her questions about herself and tell her things about yourself. Remember to be yourself and be honest. No one likes being around fake, dishonest people. It's awkward and makes things difficult. When you feel you've known her long enough, and well enough, then you can ask her out. Good luck :)

LikeMind · M

That's all well and good, but can I at least nibble on a bit she's not using?

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goagainsttheflow · 26-30, F

If that's what zombies are into these days!

goagainsttheflow · 26-30, F

@sacksbackagain: It's weird dating someone you don't know, silly.

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goagainsttheflow · 26-30, F

@sacksbackagain: Oh my 😢

Jester · 31-35, M

Thank you for taking the time to share your wonderful advice :) I think I'm going to try out just approaching women as a friend first with the romantic interest part being on the back burner from now on. Would you mind sharing a couple of questions you would like to be asked first if you were in this situation?

goagainsttheflow · 26-30, F

You can ask her anything! Her occupation, her hobbies, how her summer went, if she saw the latest movie, etc. If she's an art student for example, what is she majoring in? What is she studying, how long has it been her passion, and what made her want to study and pursue that passion? If you happen to know about art and share the same interest, it's easy to keep the conversation going. If you know nothing about art but you're still interested in the subject, you keep asking her questions and learn more about her in the process, or move on to something else she said she enjoys. Of course, don't forget to talk about yourself! She'll ask you the same things in order to get to know you better. Just relax and be honest (lies only lead to bigger lies and nobody likes lies). Or if you're nervous that's fine, too. She shouldn't dislike you just because of that, that's rude if she does.

Or if you still don't know what to say, you can get topics from a website called the Good News Network. It's an online news site, but it's all about good and inspiring things that's been happening in the world! The articles make a great conversation topic with anyone!

And don't forget to smile :D People respond best to smiles :D

Jester · 31-35, M

Dude, the good news network app is amazing! The stories about the owl's recovery and the free dental care for vets warmed my heart and put a smile on my face. Thanks for sharing that and those great tips. I'll be sure to keep them in mind for the next time :)

goagainsttheflow · 26-30, F

@Jester: I'm glad I was able to help you and I'm even more glad that you enjoyed the Good News Network!
You can do it! I know you can find your special someone! :D

Jester · 31-35, M

@goagainsttheflow: Thank you :)