Last week we talked about how to flirt at the pub. Now for those who love their music, let's look at some new flirting hot spots, like - at a gig.
So you're off to a gig this weekend and while you don't necessarily expect to find Mr. Omg! It's worth keeping your eyes and ears open. All too often I hear people say, "I don't really go anywhere to meet guys; I see go out and see live music but..." when in fact, this is an excellent meeting ground. It's loud and boozy and social, and most importantly, you've both got the same taste in music, so why not exploit it?
Prep/After party
Have a persuasive word with your mates before the gig. Sort out somewhere to go for drinks afterwards, and make it somewhere nearby to where the gig is. That way if you do meet someone interesting, you'll have a plan to keep the party going afterwards.
Body posture
The 'OMG' moments only happen a few times in our lifetime, so don't let them pass you by. The minute you spot that special someone lounging up against a wall, force yourself to be brave: make eye-contact and position yourself so that you glide right by them and give them a cheeky sideways glance. Once you're safely positioned at the bar, or at your table, look back over your shoulder with a big saucy smile to establish the vibe - just do it!
Be bold!!
If you get a smile back, give them a big grin (as a reward!) and if you want to be really bold, put out your hand and say something like: "Hey, I would have bought you a drink but I didn't know you back then!" It's a joke. It's cute. It's funny and it's friendly. Plus it won't kill you to try something different. Think of it as an experiment, it's Leap Year after all. What better time than to liberate yourself?
Take aim and fire
It's easy to make conversation when you're both in the same scene. Here's a list of questions to have at hand. Who is the support act? Did you see them? What time is the headliner? Have you seen them before? Where, when and how was that gig...? You get the picture. If things take off, tease out the conversation more broadly about music: favourite band of all time? Favourite record? Best ever gig. Have a few music related gems up your sleeve to share to show you've got loads in common and if you can, make them laugh. That's the best ice-breaker of all.
Let the band begin
It's easy to banter during an ear splitting band with the right person, and very hard with the wrong person. So once the band starts and it's too noisy to chat, it's the perfect time to suss out if there is any chemistry going on between the two you. You'll soon know about it if you're both laughing along to your own private in jokes and shimmying your shoulders along to your favourite songs. Yes!
Finally...
Don't dump your mates. Once the gig has ended and your friends are ready to leave, tell the dude you'd love to stay, but duty calls. Mention the venue that you'll be heading for a drink/ after party, and extend a light-hearted but enthusiastic 'hey maybe you'd like to come along?' with a big smile.
If he's already got plans - that's fine - but it shouldn't mean you lose your nerve, not if you're determined to make the most of the opportunity. It's not fair to leave all the awkward, 'are we going to meet again?' stuff up to him. It takes two to tango and men lose their nerves, just like we do (and probably a zillion times more.) Why not help to push things along by making a suggestion. You could say something like, 'how about we stay in touch and check out ...... gig down the track?' It's a little bold, but it's relevant. And since you've got the common ground already, why not? It's a lot easier than when you don't have it.
Above all, make an effort. And don't underestimate how these dark, boozy environments can be brilliant for meeting our soul mates - especially when we're all off doing our own thing.
Make 2012 the year to enjoy the music in more ways than one!
