There’s nothing better than having a bit of a flirt with an attractive person who’s up for some banter, however flirting itself is an artform. It’s something that takes practice. It can be great craic when it goes right but when it goes wrong, well, it’s utterly mortifying.
According to relationship experts there are five mistakes that people tend to commonly make when they’re chatting a member of the opposite sex up. We’re revealing all so you can up your game and ensure you never have another embarrassing flirting-gone-wrong situation (thank God!).
Mistake #1: Coming on too strong
Flirting is all about letting someone know that we’re into them but there’s a fine line between expressing your interest and being downright inappropriate.
Always keep things light, fun and playful and don’t make any overtly sexual suggestions (especially if you’ve just met them!). If you’re flirting your heart out and the object of your affections just simply isn’t interested, back off. You don’t want the incredibly humiliating experience of them asking you to leave them alone.
Mistake #2: Using jealousy as a weapon
Does the object of your affections have a partner with them? Yes? Then do not flirt with them. They’re completely off limits. Throwing flirty glances at someone else’s date will not only make you look incredibly bad, it could cause their date to confront you which is something you definitely don’t want.
Remember: if they’re taken simply cut your losses, move on and see what other (single!) talent is on offer.
It’s a seriously bad idea to flirt at work
Mistake #3: Getting your flirt on at work
Flirting at work happens all the time (moreso when there’s a hottie in your office) but it’s something that can seriously backfire. Especially if you’re having some cheeky banter with your boss.
Even worse, your colleagues could think that you’re using your sexuality to get a raise or a promotion and don’t even get us started about possible sexual harassment charges…
Mistake #4: Leading someone on
We all love a bit of banter but flirting with someone that you have no interest in is just unfair. You can’t play with someone’s emotions and let them think they have a chance with you if you’re really not interested.
It’s a good idea to learn when to back off if you don’t want the situation to get too serious. A good rule of thumb is to keep the flirtations to a minimum and just be nice instead, especially if you don’t feel that way about the person you’re talking to.
Mistake #5: Taking things too seriously
Flirting is supposed to be fun and chances are there’s a few people in your life who flirt with you on a regular basis – maybe a barman at your local pub or that guy at your local cafe who always gives you a cheeky wink.
However, not everyone who flirts with you will be interested in you. Likewise not everyone you have a flirty exchange with will be someone you’re interested in pursuing. Relationship experts advise against getting attached to everyone who flirts with you. Instead, take a deep breath, relax, have fun and just see where it goes.
