Tips and Tricks for Going to a Bar Alone

You've thought about going to a bar by yourself to meet other singles, but you just can't muster enough fortitude. Maybe you've accepted a job to another area or your friends bailed out on you by marrying off. Whatever the situation, it's time to diversify your single strategy. If the online dating scene is part of your portfolio, leave the laptop powered down for a night and head out. If nothing comes of it, at least you'll get a change of scenery and clear your head for a few hours.

The Game Plan

For women, research bars that feature a big sports game on television. Playoff games and highly publicized football games usually draw the biggest crowds. Sports crowds usually mean bunches of guys, some potentially single. Scope out a bar stool, order a drink and appear interested in the game. If you need a quick tutorial about the game of football, read Football Rules for Women - A Cheat Sheet.

Bars with Televisions

Similar to the game plan, a highly publicized sporting event doesn't necessarily have to be playing, so this applies to both men and women. If it's a regular weekend night and you're not exactly in a club kind of mood, select a bar that has televisions. Most reputable bars have them. Select a chair at the bar and order a drink. Utilize the T.V. as a crutch when you need a break from people watching. Body language becomes important; sit open towards the bar, not away from it.

Bars with Bands

If a local establishment features a band that night, this plays well as an alternative to the bar with televisions. Listening to the band gives you an option to roam about the room. If you need a break, head to the bathroom or get a refill; just watch the alcohol consumption if you are driving.

Talk to the Bartender

Strike up a conversation with the bartender. This offers something to break up the atmosphere. The bartender can multitask, and he or she can serve as a good connection.

Approachable

The typical guy generally disfavors approaching a woman who huddles around her friends at a bar. The "herd principle" provides a sense of apprehension for most men because it's a lot easier approaching one girl rather than the same girl encircled in a group. Take advantage of this psychology. Appear approachable and you'll make it easier for a guy to approach and strike up a conversation.

The Alone Question

Somewhere during the first five minutes of a conversation, the other person inevitably asks if you are here with anyone. So, how do you address this difficult question if you are intimidated about going to a bar alone? Consider saying that you just got a phone call from your friend, and he/she couldn't make it. If all of your friends are dating someone, then it's true none of them could make it, making your statement true from a certain point of view. As a safety precaution for the women, consider letting someone know about your whereabouts. That person can always text you at some point during the night just to check in.

Knowing When

There comes a point in time where there's not much activity-everyone around appears taken, preoccupied or it's a light crowd. If you sense this after awhile, it's ok to head home. You've gotten yourself out, and that's good. Keep this one on the radar and try again some other time.