Researchers asked people from those four generations about how they flirt and how they like to be hit on, and while there are differences, some things seem to be universal.
- Baby boomers - Their advice for hitting on someone is summed up as “Be yourself and be respectful.” Staying true to your authentic self is important to this generation, with one 64-year-old sharing, “Try your best not to emulate how flirting takes place in movies and TV,” because it’s not natural and harder to do than it looks on screen. Boomers also stress that it’s crucial to gauge someone’s interest and comfort level from their body language and verbal responses.
- Gen X - Flirting advice from these 45- to 60-year-olds is “Be funny, interesting and interested.” According to several Gen Xers, this includes asking questions and really listening to the answers, so you remember details later. One 49-year-old says flirting is about “creating excitement and energy, while keeping things classy.” Being playful and staying pressure-free while respecting boundaries is the way to go for this age group.
- Millennials - Their flirting advice in a nutshell: “Be friendly and witty.” Millennial matchmaker and dating expert Devyn Simone says the three things to keep in mind for non-creepy flirting are “safety, positivity and reciprocity.” This generation is more likely to share their Instagram handle than a phone number as a low-key way to stay in touch.
- Gen Z - The youngest generation’s flirting advice summary is “Be complimentary, cheeky and authentic.” They like to keep things playful, but respectful, and pay attention to context, consent and body language. Gen Z tends to want to make sure people feel safe when being hit on, and many mention their flirting technique includes being funny and charming.
Source: Huff Post
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