In your usual media dating advice you can expect to see an ‘expert’ telling you there are definite signs you can give off to attract others.

Standing with your hand on your hip or fingers pointing at your crotch whilst smiling and flicking your hair seem to be the most popular poses to adopt.

The problem is that body language works on an unconscious level, so if you try and fake it, it shows. And if it shows it seems like either your pants don’t fit or you’re trying too hard and are a bit desperate.

There are some practical things you can do to seem approachable. Looking clean and well dressed makes you feel better and makes others want to get near you.

Staring at the floor, having a closed posture (e.g. folding your arms or hunching your shoulders) and not making eye contact will make you seem shy, standoffish or not interested.

Generally if you don’t feel good about yourself it’s hard to convey to others you’re interesting or interested in them. If you feel you don’t have much confidence working on this first before trying to get out there and date will be time well spent.