Marya Choby: Hi! I'm Marya Choby and I'm a dating coach. I'm sharing dating strategies for shy and introverted singles. Right now I'm going to talk about how to people to date. The number one way to meet new people is to be introduced by friends, but if you want to get set up you have to let your friends know you're interested and available to be set up. You will not seem desperate or needy, if you casually mention that you're up for meeting new people. If there aren't a lot of singles in your network, then I suggest becoming a regular at a coffee shop, exercise class, running club, or book group. Make friends with people of all genders and all ages. You'll get comfortable in the environment and have friendly, supportive people around you. Everyone you meet has the potential to know someone and you'll feel more comfortable if you've got a routine where you're in the same location and see the same people over and over again. Build communities around your passions and interests, attend lectures, take classes, and participate in individual sports like biking or hiking with the group. It'll be easier for you to have conversation on the tip of your brain, when you're really passionate and interested in what you're doing. Consider online dating, writing is often a strength for shy and introverted folks. Don't be afraid to convey your richness and depth in your profile. Give yourself the opportunity to talk on the phone a few times before meeting to increase your comfort level. So what about parties and bars? They're not the introvert or shy persons ideal social scene, but here are some tips to make it easier. Learn to spot other introverts to chat with. They're likely hanging back more too, they'll be relieved you're talking with them, and happy to be exempt from working the room. Also try to find yourself a chair, you'll feel safer and more grounded if you can sit down. If you run into someone worth meeting, it's great if you can get introduced. If not, consider taking the initiative. Being an introvert doesn't mean you can't be assertive, you'll just want to break the interaction into small chunks. Make eye contact and smile when you're one-on-one at the food table or bar, a little later say hello again and smile. Think of a few easy comments to make, to chat, and introduce yourself. Move away to regroup and breathe, and after some time say hello again and have a longer conversation. You'll feel like old friends by the end of the night. So those were some strategies for meeting people to date. Now let's talk about asking for a date.