The last post talked about the role of pickup lines in the realm of dating and relationships from a woman’s point of view. This post will elaborate on some of that discussion and introduce some new ideas.

One thing to remember is that women have a tendency to play hard to get. Actually, it might be more than just a tendency – it could be a thing that is programmed into their DNA. Biologically they are programmed to find the best mate, or the best father who will give her kids. The man who is better likely to do that will be persistent and also have the resources to be able to impress her even after she expresses no interest in the beginning. Is that sexist or is it fact, who knows and it’s not that important to determine at this stage. The main point is that no matter what you say, no woman is going to visibly fall head over heels for you and be willing to do whatever you say. Chances are, even if she is interested she will play it cool. That’s part of the fun anyways isn’t it? Read more »

Today’s look at pickup lines will cover the other point of view. If you are a guy who has used a pickup line, hopefully you’ve considered what it’s like to be on the receiving end of such smoothness. If you haven’t now is your chance. Let’s be clear here, pickup lines don’t have a great reputation. Both cheesy pickup lines and even funny pickup lines are in their own segregated category of dating techniques. Most people don’t use pickup lines and those who do almost always use them in a joking way. Let’s examine what a woman might think about this phenomenon of men saying ridiculous things to her in an attempt to get a date.

The first thing to remember is that every woman has at some point in her life heard a pickup line. Maybe it was something told as a joke, maybe it was even her female friend relating a story to her that included the advances of a clueless dolt. Whatever the case you can be sure every woman knows what a pickup line is. No woman will ever be like, “Oh what a clever thing to say!” She will immediately be able to put the line in the proper category and even if it’s the cleverest thing she’s ever heard she will still say to herself “Oh that was a great pickup line”. She’ll know exactly what has happened and then decide how to proceed from there. Why is this important? Because it is vital that you don’t think you’re re-inventing the wheel. No matter how original what you choose to say, the heart of what you are doing is still delivering a pickup line. Don’t fool yourself, and more importantly don’t think you’re fooling her and you’ll be in the best position possible.

Why do many women have an adverse reaction to pickup lines when it comes to dating and relationships? Probably because at the very core, pickup lines are insulting in some way. Now you may say “Wait, what if I compliment her on her looks?” “What if my line is not sexual in any way?” “What if my line is super funny and I only use it for special occasions?” Yes, all those points are fine and dandy, but let’s face it, all pickup lines are in some way insulting. No matter how good your line is, the woman will say these things to herself:

Does this guy think I’m easy?

Do I look like a girl that would respond to this?

Does this guy think this line will actually work?

Who does he think he is?

That’s all he could come up with?

Most importantly, at the very heart of it she will be feeling this sentiment:

I am a human being and an individual. I don’t want to be judged just on my looks alone. By using this pickup line, it is obvious that this person likes the way I look, but they have put no effort in engaging me in conversation – to find out who I am and what I’m about. I’m not just another statistic that can be reeled in by a common pickup line. I respond to originality and genuine interest, not stock lines.

All this equals = come on pal, I’m not going to fall for that. Move along.

Alright, I’m not claiming that you should be using pickup lines. I will make my declaration on their usefulness at a later date. For now, let’s just assume that you want to use a pickup line and you’re wondering how to make it work.

Pick the line that’s right for you

Whether you’re going with the cheesy pickup lines or funny pickup lines, you will want to use ones that are appropriate for you, your look, and your personality. If you look like a nice guy, then there’s no point in forcing horribly cheesy pickup lines out of your mouth. You are basically negating your advantage and why would you want to do that? Ok, so sometimes guys who look nice are actually sleezeballs and if they are, they probably aren’t going to be very good at self assessment. Cheesy pickup lines can work! So can funny pickup lines! I will tell you how later, but for now if you are a beginner at using pickup lines then stick with ones that come out of you with ease. If a line is too corny for you or it even makes you want to wretch, then don’t use it. Being yourself is a big part of dating.

Don’t just rely on One line

Ok so you’ve searched a long list of pickup lines and you found one that you love. It’s funny and it’s original and you’re convinced that it will get you a date. No matter how great you think that line is, do yourself a favour and get a backup. Actually get two or three or even seven or eight backups. The fact is, it doesn’t matter how great a pickup line is, no line alone will always be all-purpose that is appropriate for any situation at any time. Having a mental catalogue of lines will help you to adapt to any situation that may develop. And trust me, if you’re going to be using a tonne of pickup lines – situations will develop!

Anticipate the response

You can’t just deliver a pickup line and expect magic to happen. In fact, what you can expect is that it won’t be the be all and end all of the pickup. It’s just the beginning and if all your charm ends with the line then you’ll probably end up going home alone. The worst case scenario is you’ll look like a total idiot. Actually, the worst case scenario is you get slapped in the face. Let’s just hope that doesn’t happen. Make sure to analyze your chosen pickup line and anticipate any responses. You can probably tell what your target is going to say and with experience you’ll actually have a long list of responses you’ve gotten. It will take trial and error but pairing the right line with the right situation, and then being prepared with quick responses will go a long way in leading to success.