The science of positioning

[Guest]

So this is an offshoot of my Field Report.

The Question: How do you physically position yourself when approaching a set to maximize opportunities (such as attraction) and minimize disadvantages
(such as awkwardness, bitch shield, etc...)

I've included some drawings here as a for instance since I think communicating these questions visually would be best.


[IMG]http://www.headendtech.com/pics/scenario1.png[/IMG]

So in this image, the AMOG and HB are sitting against the wall, the other HB is standing on the outside of the table. Is there any good place for positioning here were you will not automatically by virtue of being standing and on the outside be considered beta?

[IMG]http://www.headendtech.com/pics/scenario2.png[/IMG]

So in this scenario, there was me and two HBs. I approached from the north turned and positioned myself south next to the HB to the south. In hindsight I think it would have been better to have approached from the south, passed them and physically placed myself between them.

Thoughts or suggestions on this? How important is physical positioning?

[Guest]

Physical positioning is really important. If you do it right, you can control the set.

In you're first example, you would approach from the south and open the target while standing on her right side. Basically, you'll be where the circle with the question mark is right now. The reason for this is that you now have created a physical barrier between the target and the other members of the set. Now, I woudn't turn your back to the AMOG and the other member of the set, but I would be more open to the target than to the AMOG. You want the AMOG to be over your shoulder. Basically what you've done is seperate her from the set. Eventually, the other members of the set will more than likely be brought in, which gives you the chance to introduce yourself to them unprompted.

The second example, is personal preference. Personally, I would approach right next to your target, but talk to the other member of the set. This forces your target to be involved in the conversation (you're talking 'past' her), allows you easy access for kino, and makes the other set member comfortable with you (diffusing obstacles) while also making the other girl think that you're not interested in her. It's easier to bring her in the conversation because she's 'captive' and sitting right next to you.

[Guest]

Thanks, Bull Run, that makes alot of sense. I was thinking for the second set, approach in the middle so that way they have to talk past you to talk and your centered so you could be the center of attention. However, after thinking about it, I see what you mean about talking past her. But excluding her from the conversation in this way, you would be isolating her, and it may also be a slight neg.