How to Talk to Strangers: Lessons from the Pickup World

Bill Ackman, a 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, while others thought it was a decent icebreaker. But what's the real deal with pickup lines and approaching strangers? First, let's talk about pickup artists, or PUAs. These are guys who teach other guys how to talk to women. They have their own lingo and strategies, but it mostly boils down to "Be confident and go talk to girls. " Sounds simple, right? But it's not always easy. Ackman's line might work if you're tall, rich, and good-looking. But for the average guy, it might not be the best approach. Pickup artists suggest using more specific opening lines to start a conversation. Like asking about a fake fight outside or settling a friendly debate. These lines work because they help you chat without seeming desperate. The real challenge isn't finding the perfect line. It's overcoming the fear and awkwardness of talking to a stranger. Some PUAs even suggest practicing on old ladies in the grocery store to build confidence. Interestingly, a recent Reddit post suggested a simpler approach: Get good at a hobby, organize events around it, become a leader, and then choose who to talk to. It seems that being a well-rounded person with interests might be more effective than any pickup line. So, whether you're using a cheesy line or just being yourself, the key is to be confident and take that first step. After all, the worst that can happen is getting turned down. And that's not so bad.