1. "Would you like to go on a date?"
Being direct is always better than beating around the bush. Don't just ask to "hang out sometime" because that could throw the other off and leave them questioning, is it a date or are they just being friendly.
2. "I've really enjoyed getting to know you, here's my number if you'd like to grab dinner sometime."
Try to avoid asking for their number. Then they don't have to feel like they are obligated to give it to you (which they aren't btw) and it lessens the chance of an awkward rejection. By giving them your number, the ball is now in their court and if they're interested they can text or call. If their not interested, at least the rejection is less awkward.
Also, I suggest dinner over anything else, because it is obvious that you'd like to go on a date, and dinner is the best way to get to know a person. Movies, you sit in silence. Coffee is another option if you're trying to be more casual, but dinner tends to be more date-like.
3. "Do you like raisins? How do you feel about a date?"
Pick-up lines can be very dangerous or very helpful, depending on the person. I think cheesy and geeky pick-up lines are cute, unless they're about asking to get in my pants.
If you're going to use a pick-up line don't use one that makes you come off like dick. It's usually best to avoid ones that insinuate all you want from them is sex.
And once again, this only works on certain types of people. So, if you don't feel 100% confident and don't mind getting rejected if it doesn't work, just stick with this next one...
4. "Hi, my name is (your name), may I ask yours?"
A polite introduction is one that will be remembered. You don't have to add the "may I ask yours?" because it's usually polite for them to then introduce themselves. Offer your hand for a handshake as well, but don't force it upon them. Don't force anything upon them.
If they introduce themselves back, then you can start a nice conversation with them. If at a restaurant/bar offer to buy them a drink, mentioning it doesn't have to be alcoholic if they don't want.
Politeness shows respect and respect goes a long way as long as it's truly genuine.
5. "I noticed your (insert fandom accessory) and was wondering (insert relevant question)?"
It could be anything, sports jersey, "Game of Thrones" shirt, TARDIS backpack, Infinity Gauntlet rings, Hogwarts House gear, etc. Even throw in a compliment like: "which is really cool by the way" or "which are gorgeous by the way"
Then ask a question which could be as simple as: "are you caught up on the latest season?"
Finding something in common is a great way to start to get to know a person. If you have a nice conversation you're then free to introduce yourself and potentially give them your number when it's time for you to part ways. Don't be too rushed with trying to make a move (by giving them your number) because then it will appear that is the only reason you started the conversation.
If you give it to them before one of you is ready to leave, then there is an awkward pause or it makes it awkward to just walk off in another direction. If you're genuinely interested then spend time getting to know them. This also helps you decide if they're someone you want to continue to get to know.
6. "I think you're really (insert appropriate compliment), and would like to get to know you better, would you like to go out?"
Being SUPER direct is a way to really put yourself out there and only works for some people. This may come off as kind of weird or they could find the boldness attractive, wearing your heart on your sleeve.
Either way, if you're going to use this way, be prepared to take rejection. A graceful acceptance is the best way to avoid embarrassing rambling and stumbling exit.
If rejected you could simply smile and say "okay, well now I know, I look forward to getting to know you as a friend" and leave it to them to say something or take your leave.
7. "Did you hear about the guy who's addicted to break fluid? He says he can stop any time"
Opening with a joke is a fun route to take. "Did you hear.." jokes are the best ones because it comes off like you're about to tell a story but it turns out it was a joke. Hopefully, you'll get a smile or polite laugh out of it.
Now that you have their attention introduce yourself as a way to see if they're interested. People tend to like others who have a sense of humor or can make them laugh, so this is always a good way to show off your funny side.
Overall, no matter how you decide to ask, be polite and respectful if you sincerely want to go on a date with this person. Don't rush things either. Dating is about getting to know each other, you're not in a relationship until you talk about starting a relationship. This can be after the first date or the second or the tenth.
Getting to know each other before diving into a relationship is important and what dating is for.
So, keep an open mind, have confidence, and good luck!
5 Respectful And Empowering Ways To Handle Rejection
Not everyone will like you, but not everyone has to.
You work hard, you do the right thing, and the inevitable happens. Someone comes along and begins to give you a backhanded compliment, or if you have the misfortune, a backhanded comment. You are left with a bad taste in your mouth and your day starts to turn sour. When people belittle you and your efforts, here are five respectful and empowering ways to sweeten those moments of rejection.
1. Never give someone a reason to not like you.
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People will say what they want and think what they want, no matter the subject or person of choice. It will not matter who you are or what you do, someone or another manages to pay you their two cents. You have to remember, you did not give them reasons to justify their words or actions towards you. These people who exhibit unwarranted thoughts about you are just another drop in the ocean. They do not define your good intentions or self-worth. They are not for you and you need not place any investigation or worry into the mystery of why they do not like you. You do not have to reason with them any further. Simply look forward to the people who care to be curious and open-minded about you.
2. Kill them with kindness.
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The dead push up daisies, but you plant the seed. Some people will smile proudly knowing they have said something cruel or disheartening to get a rise out of you but look at this as an opportunity. Every moment is a chance for you to choose how you react. Ten percent of life is what happens to you, it is out of your control. Ninety percent of life is what you do about it. Use your words to encourage, not discourage, civil discourse. Say what matters and say it with an honest purpose. State your case and let them respond how they will; you cannot control others, but you can control yourself. Be a good example others have yet to show themselves.
3. Turn the "No's" into a "Yes."
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The poet Sylvia Plath had this to say about rejection: "I love my rejection slips. They show me I try." She was talking about the process of writing literary submissions for publication, but her attitude still stands. This is the mindset it takes to find the success you want out of life. Despite all the people that deny you and your work, there are people that see potential and promise in you. It does not matter how many people say "No" to you. What does matter is the number of times you can get back to work and look forward to that one "Yes." You are working for the "Yes's" in your life. Forget the dream-killers and eye-rollers, they lack the hope and drive you have in what you do. They do not do what you do and do not do it like you do. For every "No" there is a "Yes."
4. Let your work speak for you.
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Sometimes no matter how endearing your elevator pitch sounds or how carefully crafted your resume is, people still find fault where there might not even be any. Your accomplishments are your own and that is something to take pride in. Of course, the right amount of pride separates you from the rest and for the better. Pride and confidence must not become virtues or vices that exceed who you are. The work you put out is an extension of who you are and no one can take that away from you. Work speaks for itself and yourself best, so focus on your goals and let your results stand in for your words people did not value. Your best is rarely seen at the moment of inspiration, usually after the final stroke of the brush has wet the canvas. It is your goal to show that stalwart work ethic in good times and in bad.
5. Your process will protect you.
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Keep working. Rule out the distractions and the doubts, the fears, and the flippant fools. Know that your process will save you in trying times. Work against all odds. At some point, things turn even and add up, but you have to be dedicated and diligent. Your sights are seen only through your eyes and your need is to show others what you see. Until then, your skill, your talent, will be honed with consistency. Show up to your work even when you have not been hit with inspiration. The Kodak moment will present itself through your process. Due diligence is the price of success. Eyes on the prize and nose to the grindstone. No one knows your work better than you.
Be the trampoline that bends the will of gravity-like rejection long enough until you can fly.