Chat up lines

Ever wonder how to strike up a conversation with someone when you spot them in a crowded room. Well here writers Penny Isaacs and Sarah Lockett give you the tips you need.

Your eyes connect across the crowded room/dancefloor/office.
That was the easy bit.
But now guys - do you want some advice on how to get to know her?
Whatever you say, the key point to remember is that women judge a great deal by eye contact and hate a shifty look.
Confident delivery is half the battle.
Do not stare at her figure even if it’s great.

1. Compliments
Keep them brief, and do not focus on her body or you will look desperate. 'You have nice earrings' will often do the job. ‘That’s a great top’ really means those are great boobs, and women know this.
2. Something off-the-wall outrageous!
‘Tell me, do you know how to change a wheel?’ If done with a cheeky smile this could just work. At least she will laugh or be intrigued.
3. A generous no-strings attached invitation.
‘Would you like a glass of champagne – we have a bottle open which we won’t get through.’ This shows you are classy (champers) and generous – win-win.
4. Literature
‘If you like that book you should try the second one in the trilogy.’ Only do this if you genuinely know the author – otherwise you will get caught out. If you haven’t read the book, you can always open with – ‘I was thinking about getting that book – what do you think of it?’ Ask an OPEN question – not one she can give a Yes/No answer to.
5. Family resemblances
‘Sorry, I had to do a double-take. You remind me so much of my beautiful sister Jane.’ If you don’t have a sister – use a friend’s name, but in case she ever meets the real Jane – make sure they do look somewhat alike. This is corny but sweet.
6. Help!
‘I don’t know you, but, as a woman, would you mind telling me if you would want this present that I have just bought for my mum?’ Your helpless male act will bring out the big softie in her. Who could resist rescuing you when you’re trying to do something nice for your Mum?
7. Fancy that!
‘What a coincidence. Didn’t I see you at the bus stop outside the cinema last week? You had a fantastic mohair coat which really looked unusual.’ Even if it wasn’t her, she will like the compliment and you will have to spend some time figuring out if it was her i.e. which film, which cinema etc… This gives you time for a few follow-up gambits.
8. Being the gent.
‘That case looks heavy. Can I help you take it off the carousel?’ These old-school manners always go down well, no matter how liberated the woman is. Who’s going to object to a bit of genuine courtesy?
9. On the train.
‘Do you know what time we get into Manchester?’….factual, unthreatening. But get in quick with a follow-up remark, a joke about the catering, the delightfully helpful staff or Network Rail’s ever-present engineering works, always timed to perfection.
10. In the wine bar.
‘They do a great Frascati/Sauvignon Blanc here, I’m going to get a glass – can I get you one while I am at it?’ A variation on ‘Can I buy you a drink?’ but no harm in that.
11. In the street/bus stop/pub.
‘I am looking for a really good Italian restaurant round here, any ideas?’ Again, unthreatening. She will probably give directions or be going that way herself, in which case…

Why not give these a try next time you see someone who takes your fancy!