How to Ask Someone Out on a Hot Date

Asking someone out on a hot date is not just the man's domain anymore. Whether you're a guy or a gal, finding someone attractive and interesting enough to ask out is an act that requires just a little bit of finesse and practice to pull off. The next time you're thinking of asking someone out on a date, take a few moments to think of ways to ensure smooth sailing on your part.

Instructions

1. Break the ice with some small talk or interesting conversation. Don't count on being able to just jump in and ask for the date. Build some rapport and attraction first.

2. Ask questions of your prospective date to show genuine interest in her. Try not to be too invasive, however, with your questions. Highly sensitive and personal topics (e.g., religion, past relationships) should be saved for a later time.

3. Prepare ahead of time a possible place, time and activity for the date in case your prospect says yes. If you've already established a shared interest, such as movies or hiking, it's a great idea to incorporate that into your proposed date. This also gives you a chance to transition smoothly popping the question, by asking if she'd like to do that activity together sometime.

4. Choose your moment carefully before you ask the person out. Try to do it in a relatively quiet, private place where he won't be distracted by other friends or colleagues. On the other hand, don't wait around for the timing to be absolutely perfect--it may never be, and you don't want to miss your chance.

5. Be prepared to declare a reason for asking her out if it's not obvious. You might need to tell her when, where or how you noticed her, or why you think you two would have fun together. Have a little speech prepared ahead of time so you don't stumble over your words.

6. Decide how much money you want to spend on the date. If you're doing the asking, it is safe to assume that you'll be the one paying--so don't suggest an evening at the hottest sushi restaurant in town if you aren't prepared to foot the bill.

Tips & Warnings

• Nonverbal skills are very important in the hot date department. Cues such as eye contact, leaning forward and smiling signal friendliness and approachability. Practice these skills until they become second nature.

• There are general rules that can be applied to most situations, contexts and people. However, more specific knowledge may be needed if the prospective date is a co-worker, someone you don't know very well or from culture with which you are unfamiliar.

• Although it pays to be optimistic, be prepared for a possible rejection. Know how you will respond, and realize that it's not entirely a reflection on you.

• If you get a rejection, thank her anyway and move on. Nobody wants to be chased down for a date, especially when she's already said, "no."

• Avoid using alcohol to build up courage to ask someone out. Alcohol may lower inhibitions, but it also impairs your judgment. Stay sober.