Secrets of Seduction

Whatever happened to seduction? Whatever happened to the days when people would actually take the time to flirt and flutter, hovering around their object of carnal affection before actually swooping in for the kill? These days, everything is abbreviated, a result, perhaps, of our reliance on so much technology that makes communication that much easier. A booty call might more appropriately be renamed a booty text. No one bothers to approach, intrigue and attract; they instead prefer to message potential lovers over Friendster and Myspace. Whatever happened to the fundamental desire to work for something we actually want?

Shortcuts aren’t as fun as they seem. Going straight for the gold waters down the purpose and intensity of the game. Seduction is an art in itself, and quite possibly an intricate science as well, for talking your way into someone’s pants is never a small feat. At the very least, consider seducing someone an empowering activity. You fight your way to this person, you duel one on one in a valiant attempt to win him or her over, and you come out victorious. Sweltering, sticky, and hot, but victorious. Little else can imbue one with a sense of such overwhelming power and skill.

You’re attractive. You know that you are. And you’re charming, intelligent, and a great conversationalist. You probably think that you’ve got the basics down, and in all likelihood, you might not even need to read this. But education is always a good thing. Don’t put down the paper yet. You may learn something that will help you become an even smoother operator.

Set A Target

The first step in succeeding at anything involves setting a clear goal. What do you want, and why do you want it? Lay down your objectives and build your battle plan around them. Do you want a kiss? Do you want to get laid? Establish what you intend to accomplish, and you’ll be well on your way.

Always remember that appearances count. It’s glaringly obvious, but the first thing someone will notice about you is the way you look. Badly rumpled clothing is an immediate turn-off, as are dirty fingernails. And be extremely conscious of your hygiene. Your target will not enjoy doing it with someone who smells like a trash compactor, and he or she will not appreciate kissing someone who tastes like last night’s buffet. Being clean and smelling good definitely ups your chances.

Now, unless you’re already acquainted with your potential, you’ll need to do a few things that will bump you up from the status of stranger to sizzling-hot acquaintance. Make eye contact and maintain it, and throw occasional glances in his direction instead of actually looking at him from time to time, just to make sure he knows you’re interested. After a little friendly ogling, you will need to estimate your chances with this person. Does he seem amiable enough for a little conversation, or will he beat you away with a barstool the moment you come in range? Know your limits, and understand that it is never a good thing to hit on someone who walked in with a date. Trust me, I know.

If the planets are in alignment and your target actually seems even remotely interested, then patiently approach him and introduce yourself. Making a good first impression is always important, and using a cheesy pick-up line will most likely end in failure, unless you intend to reel him in with humor and charm. If you think you’re funny enough and your target will take your audacity in stride, by all means, shoot away. But in most other instances, you’re better off with a simple "Hi" and a winning smile. Note that sincerity is always appreciated, and pointing out a particularly attractive aspect of your target’s appearance helps him feel more at ease in your presence. Pointing out his brooding brown eyes or simply stating "You are unbelievably cute" is acceptable. But complimenting someone on his skin when he has the complexion of a frying pan will just make you seem like a big, fat liar.

Communicate with your entire body. Face your target, and if you cross your legs, make sure they point in his or her direction. Talking over your shoulder or to your side expresses aloofness and disinterest, and the last thing you want is them thinking that you only came over for idle chitchat. Don’t forget the aforementioned importance of eye contact. Tilt your head to the side as they speak, and gaze as if you were locked in intense fascination. But do not slit your eyes half-closed. Many people think this is a prime flirtation tactic. In reality, it makes you look sleepy, slow, and drugged. You want to appear stimulated and intrigued, and everyone enjoys talking to an attentive friend. If your target insists on regaling you with awfully boring stories about his or her appendix operation, focus your eyes on the flesh of the nose directly between his eyes and plan your next move. You’ll literally be looking at his third eye, but you will still seem to be staring in rapt adoration.

Drop Hints!

Use facial signals to show how engaged in conversation you are. Smile every so often, but not wide enough as to look as if you want to have him for dinner. Raise an eyebrow or crease your forehead when a particularly interesting subject comes up. This shows that you have an opinion on the matter and helps lead to even more delightful banter. Allow your eyes to trail over his body at times, perhaps apologizing at intervals: "I’m sorry, your biceps are really distracting me. What was that about the plight of child laborers again?" And don’t be too shy to touch every now and then. Place your hand lightly on his squeezing gently to emphasize a point. Placing your hand on his upper thigh and leaving it there suggests your true intentions, and if he doesn’t swat it away, then it may be a very good sign.

Always remember that a little teasing is good, but be prepared to keep your word. Nobody likes a full-blown tease, someone who promises a night of fun and suddenly slinks away into nothingness. People like feeling important, appeased, and wanted, and making sure that you meet all these requirements in their favor will assure victory.

Practice Makes Perfect

The final blow in your strategy is imminent. You’ve done all you can to soften your target, dropping little hints and displaying suggestive expressions and motions that carry your intent across. What you do at this point is crucial, but entirely up to you. There is no formal or correct way of delivering a conclusive strike. Only understand that it will be instinctive and subjective, according to what kind of person you are talking to. Anything like "Let’s get out of this place" can work, and there will always be a margin for failure. If you have taken your time to figure out the right buttons to push at the right time, you will indeed succeed.

But if you do fail, take the experience as a lesson learned, and more importantly, as a great night spent flirting and practising for your next willing target.