Whether you are looking for a lasting relationship or a simple one-night stand, every romantic (or not so “romantic” depending on your intentions) starts with the initial interaction. As every man and woman has discovered, that pivotal moment when a man first approaches a woman can determine the outcome of the evening. I’m not saying that the man always needs to approach the woman, but if you want to leave with at least a number, you need to be proactive.

First of all, make sure you approach a woman in an appropriate place at an appropriate time.Weddings, parties, social gatherings of any kind are great places to meet people, especially if you are enjoying the event and hope to share some time with someone else who is also enjoys those types of settings. Avoid, at all costs, trying to flirt or romantically approach any woman at a funeral, funeral related event, or during any other emotionally-triggering event.If you see a woman you cannot live without, chances are you have a mutual friend who could help you obtain information at a later date. Also, don’t interrupt any otherwise quiet event (play, movie, tennis match, etc.) just to talk or find out her name.This, too, can wait until the event has finished.Also, don’t interrupt HER.Ever. You may casually intercede a greeting if she is chatting with friends at a public place, but that’s about it.

Ok, now let’s get to the point.What DO you do?

Let’s begin by addressing your intentions.Now think clearly, are you looking for a relationship? Are you looking for one night of fun? Or are you looking for a fun casual dating prospect you can call on weekends?Answer the question and answer it honestly. WHERE you look and WHAT you say have a huge impact on whether or not you can obtain your goal.For example, if you are looking for a long-term relationship and do not usually frequent bars, then you should probably steer clear from searching late night clubs for your future wife. Clubs and Bars usually harbor those looking for flirtatious nights of fun.If that’s what you are looking for, great!GO!If not, don’t expect a woman to engage in meaningful conversation about children if she’s sitting at a bar at 2am.

Where else can you look?Well, anywhere!Women are everywhere:coffee shops, bookstores, grocery stores, walking dogs, at work, everywhere!If you want to find someone who enjoys the same activities as you do, then look there.If you like rock climbing, look for women at the local rock climbing gym or out with a group or club. Dog parks, jogging trails, hiking trails, local sporting events, everywhere!Again, keep in mind your intention.If you are looking for a short-lived weekend of fun or a casual relationship with no commitments, you may want to search places you DON’T frequent as you are bound to run into this person on a later date should things not go well.