So, you’re at this party and you’ve just spotted a guy or girl you’re attracted to. Though it would be nice, you can’t look at a person and make them come up to you. This is when flirting comes into play.  

For some, flirting is easy, but most people are in the dark. Along with teens across the U.S., the SEX, ETC. editors give you their best flirting advice.

Eye Contact
Stare at the person until your eyes lock. Once they meet, it’s very common to turn away. This is very flirtatious and—if deliberate enough—communicates interest.  If you’re feeling especially bold, you can keep your eyes locked.  It can be fun to add an expression with the stare, using puppy-dog eyes, a wink, or even an eyebrow raise.

Smile
Smiling is contagious and will cover the most ground out of any of the nonverbal flirting methods. “It’s important to smile and look friendly because you want the person to think you’re the kind of person who’s nice and fun,” says Geralyn Shur, 18, of Ithaca, NY.

The Approach
So, you have some sort of nonverbal rapport going on. Now comes the big move. At this point, you have two options: go solo or with a friend.  Chances are, a friend or acquaintance knows the person you’ve been staring at for the past few minutes. Use this to your advantage. Have them introduce you or get more info on your crush. 

If you plan to fly solo, Amanda Long, 16, of Stockton, CA, has some advice: “Just walk up and introduce yourself.” Josh Hoopty, 16, of Pittsburgh, PA, agrees: “When I walk up to a guy, I find the best way to start talking to him is to say ’Hi’.” That’s right, no cheesy pick-up lines, just a simple introduction. You may feel awkward at first, but think of something to say so you’re not just standing there.

Now that you’re talking to your hottie, how do you show him or her that you’re interested? Here’s our list of DOs and DON’Ts.

DO

Ask Questions
What better way is there to get to know someone? “Acting interested in what the guy is talking about is a way of flirting that works,” says Amanda. Asking questions also gives the message that you’re interested in what they have to say.

Stand/Sit Close
Clayton Okaly, 17, of Whitehouse Station, NJ, gives this advice: “If you’re in a situation where you can do this, try and inch yourself closer to the person so that you get as close as possible.” At this point, you might have the opportunity to grab your crush’s hand or playfully tap his or her arm.