Successfully Approaching a Woman at the Mall

The Situation
Guys: You and your friend are walking through the mall, getting some essential shopping done You're rushing by when you suddenly notice a woman who fits your idea of perfection. You stop your friend and let him know that you're going to go 'in for the kill,' but before you head in there STOP and THINK.


Ask Yourself
Does she look busy?
One thing men need to understand about women and shopping is that it's not always a fun, carefree time for us. Yes, most of the time we love it but sometimes it's just a necessity that we have to get through. When we're on a mission, it is not a good time to approach!

You can tell when a woman is running a quick errand, rather than out for a good time, by watching carefully. You can tell that she is focused on a task by watching the way she walks through the store or looks through the items. If she walks in a stroll and looks like she's enjoying it, she's probably not on a time crunch. On the other hand, if she's walking around with a purpose and keeping her eyes wide open on the racks, that probably means you should steer clear.

Remember the clock; if it's lunch on a weekday, she could be there on her lunch break trying to run an errand. Do not bug her. You will most likely go down in a flaming heap of shopping totes.

Is she alone?
Another thing to keep in mind for men who DON'T want to be rejected is if she is shopping alone or with a friend(s). Again, women who are shopping alone are probably not out for a social time. If she's got a friend with her, that usually means that you're in the clear.


Going 'In for the Kill'
Gentlemen, please use common sense. Do not stop a woman in the middle of a walkway and keep her standing there while you deliver your lines. This creates an awkward situation with other people trying to walk by or around you guys. Stop her and motion over to a corner.

Also, keep in mind that you don't want to alienate her friend. Start by introducing yourself to the both of them and include both of them in the general conversation while you turn most of your visual attention to the one you're after.




The Golden Rule
Keep things concise, friendly, be a gentleman, ask for a phone number, and leave them within 5 minutes of your introduction. Quick, efficient, and smooth should be your goal.
If they're sitting at a coffee shop, consider yourself lucky and swoop right in. In this case, you can be charming, funny, and take your time because they are already taking a break.

If they're having a meal, it is probably best to swoop in and out right before they start eating. No one likes to be interrupted at meal time.

Keep in mind that these tips also work in grocery stores. Go forth gentlemen and shop!!!