Have you ever seen a women that you wanted to talk to, and just weren’t quite sure how to go about it? Half of the world’s population are women. There are a plethora of interesting and attractive women out there, but you’ll never know any of them if you don’t start somewhere. But, speaking with women is not an impossible task, as long as you have the right approach. To learn to start conversations with women, try the following tips:

1. Women can smell your intentions. Not literally, but there’s a gut feeling that women have, which can weed out desperation of lechery. Just be honest and open, and don’t try to hide ulterior motives. Studies have shown that women are up to ten times better at reading body language than men, and so what you say is not only important, but what you do can seal the deal. How you stand, for example, speaks volumes about how you view yourself, how you view your surroundings, and even how you feel about the woman you are approaching. Start by lifting your chest, and leaning back. Tall and aligned posture suggests strength, both physical and in a sense of self.

2. Take it slow. Slow down your gestures and movements. The quicker you are, the more you are conveying nervousness and discomfort. You want a woman to think you are unflappable, that you can take the reigns if you needed to, and that you will protect her. The slower you are, the more you appear to have self control, and self affirmation. In the words of RuPaul, if you can’t love yourself, how the hell are you going to love somebody else?

3. The first impression is all you get. When you introduce yourself, just keep it simple. A hello or hi, followed by your name, and perhaps even a compliment. Something mild, and approachable. When you know her name, strike up a conversation about the place you’re at, what you do, or just a little bit about yourself.

4. Play nice. Don’t say anything derogatory, rude, or forward. You may think it’s OK to say “nice chest”, but the woman you’re with may have serious objections. Treat her with respect and individuality. A woman is one of the most complex beings in the world, but she is a part of man kind, and has a right to be seen as an equal, not a lay. Do not objectify women, and they will not dismiss you. Try looking into their eyes. You are both people, and can see each other on an even playing field.

5. Take it personally. Establish a trust and truth exchange, and show her that you’re interested in her, by asking her an innocuous personal question. “How are you feeling today?”, or “How are you?” demonstrate to her that you are interested in her on a personal level. She may even ask you back. Consider it an invitation to further the conversation, and even discuss more personal things.

6, The cliche’s are right. Be yourself, and just relax! It’s just one woman, and if your conversation is a bust, it could be the wrong time or place. There is no pressure in meeting people, and so you have nothing to lose! A good sense of humor can go a long way, but you don’t need to force it. And don’t worry about trying to “seal the deal”. After your conversation has come to a close, just walk away. You don’t always need to make a move.

Practice these tips on women with whom you’re not interested, such as married women or friends. Then, when you see the knock out smile with the red dress, you’ll be comfortable enough to just have a chat. Either way, believe in yourself, because only you can strike up a conversation, and only you can be great at it!