How to Tell If He's Not Interested

There are tons of resources out there to help you gauge a man's interest after Date #1 or #2. But in a crowded bar or nightclub-where there are tons of distractions-how can you tell whether a man is attempting to gently "shut down" any sly come-ons you've got up your sleeve? Sometimes it's as simple as reading body language. Sometimes, measuring a man's intentions takes a bit more psychological detective work. In the meantime, here are some simple clues that the hot guy you've just met-isn't as interested in following up as you thought he was.

Clue #1: He holds his drink closely to his chest.

In an article in Cosmopolitan magazine, the author indicates that when a man holds a drink close to his chest, he's being guarded with his emotions. In the case of a first encounter, this is a good sign that he's not particularly interested in entertaining a new conversation. You might want to cut your losses and move on.

Clue #2: He turns his body away from you.

Sure, his iPhone may be blowing up with text messages. He might just be searching the crowded concert for his long-lost "bro." But if during your brief, semi-flirty conversation, he keeps his body (particularly his upper half) turned away from you, then he might not be as swayed by your sex kitten appeal as his words appear to let on.

Clue #3: He "skips" over you to talk to your gal pal.

There is a saying that men are more likely to approach women who are in smaller groups. This means that if you and your five lady friends are packed together at the bar, you might find yourself lacking for male attention. On the other hand, should a guy you've had your eye on approach you and your BFF, pay close attention to whom he directs most of his questions. The average guy won't want to seem rude, and will more than likely speak to both of you. But if his (more) personal questions are directed toward your buddy, take a step back from the conversation. You will probably see that it continues to flourish without you.

Clue #4: He shakes your hand.

Informal places like nightclubs, concerts, and parties are notorious for breaking down physical barriers between strangers. Combine a little alcohol, a little music, and some lively members of the opposite sex and-Voila! You've got the makings of a beautiful romance (for however long it lasts.) Let's say for instance a really cute guy has been chatting you up at the bar for a few minutes. He seems reasonably interested and may have even flirted once or twice. Perhaps you've even swapped numbers. He saunters away to catch up with his buddies, leaving you under the impression that you just might have landed a hot date for next week. But don't get too excited; because before making his exit, he made sure to shake your hand. It seems like a nice enough gesture. Perhaps he's just being a gentleman. But there is a good chance that that handshake was a kiss of death. He needn't paw you in public simply to convey that he's smitten with your witty repartee. But a man will usually use any excuse to get close to a lady he likes. A tiny tap on the upper arm, a pat on the small of the back-or some similar gesture typically means that you've piqued his interest. If you've been casually brushed off with a semi-formal (and perhaps lackluster) handshake, then that might just be the last time you see Prince Charming.

SOURCES:

www.cosmopolitan.com
www.essence.com
www.ivillage.com
www.psychologytoday.com