How to Talk to Men while Shopping
#1 More Conversation Starters
"I'm debating whether to get this [item A] or [item B]. What do you think? You look like you've got good taste."
Puts him in a position to give advice and feel helpful, with a subtle compliment.
"This store is huge! I always end up buying more than I intended. Do you have that problem too?"
A light, relatable observation about shopping that invites shared experience and a bit of self-deprecating humor.
"Hey, I'm trying to pick out a [gift item, e.g., gadget/book] for my [friend/brother], and you look like you might have good taste. Any recommendations?"
This is a compliment on his taste and invites him to offer advice, making him feel valued and helpful.
"Excuse me, I couldn't help but notice you're looking at [item type, e.g., electronics/produce]. I'm trying to decide between [option A] and [option B]. Any thoughts?"
This is a low-pressure, collaborative opener that immediately gives him an opportunity to be helpful and knowledgeable. It creates a shared task.
"You look like you know your way around here. Any hidden gems I should check out in this store?"
A compliment on his apparent familiarity with the store, inviting him to share his knowledge.
"I'm trying to find [a specific ingredient/tool], and I'm totally stumped. Any chance you've seen it?"
A clear, specific request for assistance that gives him a direct problem to solve with you.
"(Reach for the same item at the same time, then smile) Oops, sorry! Great minds think alike, I guess. Are you a big fan of [item] too?"
This uses a playful, coincidental action to create an immediate shared moment. It's lighthearted and easy to respond to.
"(Drop something, like a scarf or a small bag, near him) (He picks it up) Oh, thank you so much! You're a lifesaver. I'm always so clumsy!"
This action creates an immediate interaction and allows for an expression of gratitude, often leading to a brief exchange.
"Excuse me, I'm a little lost. Do you know where the [specific section, e.g., sporting goods/baking supplies] is?"
A classic and effective opener. It's a clear request for help that creates a natural reason to talk.
"Hey, is that [specific music/song] playing? I love this band/artist!"
If there's ambient music, this leverages a shared interest in music to start a conversation.
"Excuse me, do you happen to know if they have any more of these [item] in stock? I can't find them anywhere."
A specific request for help that he may or may not be able to answer, but it opens the door for further conversation if he tries.
"This is a bit random, but I've been eyeing that [specific item, e.g., coffee maker/tool] for a while. Have you ever tried it?"
Directly engaging with an item he's interacting with, showing common interest and asking for his experience.
"Excuse me, I think you dropped this [small, generic item – e.g., a pen, a receipt]. (Even if you're not sure it's his)."
A slightly more indirect approach. It's a polite, helpful gesture that can open a brief interaction.
"(Look at an item he’s considering) That looks like a good [product type]. Are you happy with yours, or are you just Browse?"
A direct question about an item he's already focused on, inviting him to share his opinion.
"Oh, perfect! You just grabbed the last [item name]. I've been looking for that everywhere. Is it as good as they say?"
This uses a shared experience (both wanting the same item) and a light, appreciative tone. It's easy for him to respond to the question.
"(Pretend to struggle with a cart or a large item) Ugh, this [cart/item] is so stubborn today! Mind giving me a quick hand with it? (Smile warmly)"
A direct request for help that subtly creates a physical interaction and a reason to thank him.
"This place is always so busy on [day of week]. Do you find yourself here often?"
A general observation about the store's environment followed by a question about his habits.
"Sorry to bother you, but that [item of clothing/accessory] looks great on you. Where did you find it?"
A direct compliment that focuses on his style, not just his looks. It opens a clear path for him to tell you about the item and potentially more.
"That's a really interesting [book/game/album] you're looking at. Have you read/played/listened to it before?"
Shows a genuine interest in his current activity and asks an open-ended question.
"Are you having any luck finding what you're looking for? I feel like I'm on a treasure hunt today!"
A friendly, open-ended question that expresses a bit of shared struggle in a lighthearted way.
"Excuse me, but your [bag/t-shirt/hat] is really cool. Where did you get it?"
A direct compliment on his personal style that gives him a chance to talk about something he chose.
"(Eyes a specific item he's holding or looking at) Interesting choice! Are you a big fan of [brand/type of product]?"
A direct observation followed by a question that shows interest in his preferences.
"Wow, this line is long! Have you been waiting long? I should have grabbed a coffee first."
This uses a shared (and often frustrating) experience to initiate commiseration and a light conversation.
"(Laugh softly at something on a shelf near him) Oh, sorry! This [item] just reminded me of a ridiculous story. Do you ever find yourself just Browse and getting sidetracked?"
This is a slightly more playful and indirect approach. It uses humor and invites him to share his own shopping experiences.