u/Admirable_Cold7944

Let's say I'm at a book store and I start talking to a woman. I'd ask questions about her. After I ask 4 to 5 questions, I'd stop asking and pause to see if they'd ask questions about myself. Maybe I'm wrong about this...I believe if they aren't contributing anything to the conversation, they are not interested in talking to me. If they don't ask me anything, I'd stop talking to them and move on. Am I not trying hard enough?

When I compliment a woman who is shopping or walking, she usually smiles, thanks me, and then walks away. Some smiles seem genuine, while others don't. I can usually tell when someone sincerely appreciates the compliment. Still I struggle to keep her attention. Is opening with a compliment when someone is a little busy a bad idea?

I've been struggling with my tone when I approach someone. I sound too fucking polite. I sound like a wanker. I understand I should aim to sound casual, but I literally don't know what casual sounds like. Can you suggest any movie character, actor, or any interview where the dude sounds casual.