How To

How to Approach a Celebrity in Public

Though Angelina's face is welcoming, she may get distracted by a crying a child or four. Approach with caution.

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By ehowNellie
eHow Community Member

Article Rating:

(3 Ratings)

Most celebrities love and appreciate their fans - but they also love and appreciate their private time. With the right approach, however, you can ensure that your interaction with some of the biggest names in the business will result in a positive encounter.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Confidence

Step 1

Collect your thoughts and work out what you would like to say.
Step 2

Wait until the celebrity looks available and unencumbered.
Step 3

Approach the celebrity slowly but confidently.
Step 4

Acknowledge your presence with a polite shoulder or elbow tap.
Step 5

Introduce yourself while maintaining eye contact with the celebrity.
Step 6

If the situation seems appropriate follow up your introduction with a hand shake and a “It’s great to meet you.”
Step 7

Find something to compliment the celebrity on. If a spouse, child or other relative is present, commenting on what a lovely family he has is appropriate.
Step 8

Once the dialogue has dwindled – or if the celebrity is distracted – end the conversation by saying again how much you enjoyed meeting her and that you look forward to seeing where her career will take her.
Step 9

Turn and walk away briskly but confidently.

Tips & Warnings

Before engaging the celebrity survey your environment. Does she appeared to be surrounded by security? Paparazzi? Crying children? Is he giving an interview or talking business with his manager? If so, be patient. Wait and see if an appropriate time to approach materializes.
When talking to the celebrity try to limit the conversation (unless he keeps it going) to a few sentences. They are very busy people, and some have interactions like this with fans hundreds of times a week.
Do not use this opportunity to prove to the celebrity what a movie critic you are.
Do not bring up any past indiscretions or award losses the celebrity might have had to endure. Keep the conversation positive and lighthearted.
Do not end your conversation by asking for an autograph or a photo. Celebrities have to keep moving and one that takes the time to talk to you has already given you a lot of their time.

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