How to flirt on Facebook

Spark romance on the social network with these tips.

Profile picture
The photo she uses to publicise herself to the world actually tells you exactly what she's looking for from you. "A picture of her with friends means she wishes to project an image of having a varied and interesting life," says clinical psychologist Dr Abigael San. "Asking questions about her friends and social habits will appeal to her." If she's got a preposterously glossy, clearly posed shot then think very carefully about what you wear. "This sort of woman is very concerned with her appearance, and will judge you by the same standards," says San. "A funny photo says the opposite: that she is more focused on humour and personality than how you look."

Status updates
If she constantly updates everyone with exclamation mark riddled descriptions of what she's doing, when (and with whom) then choose where you arrange to meet very carefully. "A woman who shares this level of detail about her everyday movements wants to appear active and dynamic – even if they aren't," explains San. "Picking a quirky destination for your date or dinner will make her associate you with the excitement she psychologically desires, even if it's only so she can tell other people about it."

Personal info
Check how much information she has posted about herself. "The less detail, the more guarded the girl," says San. "If she's published the bare minimum don't be too pushy with your personal questions; she'll only withdraw further. It's likely that she will ask you a lot of questions to ease her own anxiety, but don't fall into the trap of not asking some back yourself. Aim for one to every three or four of hers."

Language
Abbreviations, txt sp3ak and a general lack of grammar and you could be left waiting for her to turn up. "If she's using shortcuts in her online conversations then the woman is either extremely busy or wants you to think that she is." A strict adherence to the Queen's English, however, means it's time to turn on the chivalry. "Proper language in all situations is usually the mark of somebody conscious of appearing polite and courteous," says San. "Show her that you share the same personality traits."

Photos
If her albums are full of lookers then your eyes are allowed to wander. "We all rate our own attractiveness by that of our friends, so if she has photos of her with attractive friends then she is secure and even confident about her looks," say San. If she has 'un-tagged' herself in photos with hotter women then you should ignore the brunette by the bar at all costs. "She has a less secure body image, so looking at other women is unlikely to make her trust you enough to take things further."