How close do you get?

How close do you get when flirting with someone of the opposite sex?

Personal space is such a key issue when communicating, and depending on personality type, culture and even how you view a person, personal zones can vary somewhat.

Most good research subscribes to the following zones when looking at body language and the effects of personal space on behaviour.

Intimate Zone (less than 30 cm)

The most guarded zone of all and usually available to those emotionally close to the person.

Personal Zone (30 cm to 1 metre)

The usual distance westerners will stand from each other at cocktail parties, social functions and friendly gatherings.

Social Zone (1 metre at least)

The accepted distance strangers will stand from each other in a public place.

Being aware of how close you are

Knowing how close you can get is all about being aware of others around you. Look for clues you may be getting too close, if they move back slightly or tilt back, it's a sign to perhaps leave them some extra room.

So how close do you get - reading body language

Move in gently and read the body language of the other person before you make any assumptions.

Chances are you may have moved closer too early - just keep flirting and play it by ear. The more time time you leave it, the more comfortable they will become.