How to Talk to Strangers: Lessons from the Pickup World

The Internet Reacts to Bill Ackman's Pickup Line

Bill Ackman, a prominent hedge-fund manager, recently shared his old pickup line, "May I meet you?" on social media. The internet's response was mixed:

• Some found it awkward and creepy.
• Others thought it was a decent icebreaker.

But what's the real deal with pickup lines and approaching strangers?

Understanding Pickup Artists (PUAs)

Pickup artists, or PUAs, teach men how to talk to women. Their strategies often boil down to:

"Be confident and go talk to girls."

Sounds simple, right? But it's not always easy.

Does Ackman's Line Work?

Ackman's line might work if you're:

• Tall
• Rich
• Good-looking

But for the average guy, it might not be the best approach.

Better Opening Lines

PUAs suggest using more specific opening lines, such as:

• Asking about a fake fight outside.
• Settling a friendly debate.

These lines work because they help you chat without seeming desperate.

The Real Challenge

The real issue isn't finding the perfect line—it's overcoming the fear and awkwardness of talking to a stranger.

Practice Makes Perfect

Some PUAs even suggest practicing on old ladies in the grocery store to build confidence.

A Simpler Approach

A recent Reddit post suggested a different strategy:

1. Get good at a hobby.
2. Organize events around it.
3. Become a leader.
4. Choose who to talk to.

It seems that being a well-rounded person with interests might be more effective than any pickup line.

The Key Takeaway

Whether you're using a cheesy line or just being yourself, the key is to:

• Be confident.
• Take that first step.

After all, the worst that can happen is getting turned down. And that's not so bad.