How can you get a shy guy to pursue you? This can be quite a challenge. Understanding him might be even harder, and it could take him longer to feel comfortable around you. While an outgoing guy might not require much effort to get to know, it doesn’t matter if your heart is set on a shy guy! Fortunately, there are many things you can do to encourage him to chase you, no matter how reserved he is.
Steps
Communicate with him through eye contact

This is a subtle way to grab his attention without being too obvious. If you happen to see him in class, don’t hesitate to look his way! Make eye contact and smile. This is a refined way to show your interest while still letting him take the lead in pursuing you (meaning he’ll approach and talk to you!). This also helps him feel more at ease around you, which is especially helpful for a shy guy.
- For example, imagine you’ve noticed a cute guy who often works in a corner of a coffee shop. If you see him again, give him a friendly look and make sure he catches your eye!
- You might need to create a few more opportunities for eye contact to move things forward. Be patient and remember, this guy is a bit on the shy side!
Mirror his body language

It might sound strange, but mimicking someone can make them like you. People often feel comfortable around those who resemble them in some way. When talking to this guy, subtly mirror his gestures. For instance, if he uses hand gestures while speaking enthusiastically, try doing the same next time! Such subtle signals can make him want to get to know you better without being too obvious. Just don’t overdo it! Avoid making it seem like you’re copying every move he makes.
- Strike a balance by adopting a few of his gestures while maintaining your own unique mannerisms. He might find your individuality charming!
- Sometimes, even stepping back a little when he seems uncomfortable can help – shy individuals often need a bit more space.
Use his name when talking to him

This is a subtle way to show your interest. He’ll feel special when you say his name. It also signals that you’re choosing to engage with him out of everyone else in the room. When greeting him, make sure to include his name!
- If you see him in the hallway, say something like, “Hi Khang, how’s your day going?”
Maintain a bit of mystery when interacting with him

If you want a guy to pursue you, let him be curious to discover more about you. Try not to reveal too much about yourself until he asks. If you’re a huge fan of a band, don’t immediately share that you own every album and have watched their concerts dozens of times. Instead, simply say, “I’m really into music,” and let him ask about your favorite band. This is a great way to avoid coming across as too bold.
- Reveal bits and pieces during conversations. If you dream of studying abroad someday, say something like, “I’ve always dreamed of studying overseas.” This gives him the chance to ask, “Which school would you want to attend the most?”
Be present in places he enjoys

He’ll notice you if you’re within his line of sight. This can also help him feel more comfortable around you, as your presence will become familiar. If you know he likes having lunch at the outdoor cafeteria, join your friends there for lunch! When you spot an empty table next to him at his favorite coffee shop, go ahead and sit there. Once he starts noticing you’re often nearby, he might become curious to learn more about you.
- Don’t overdo this tactic. Avoid memorizing his schedule or showing up at every basketball game he plays. He might feel uneasy if he thinks you’re following him or appearing everywhere he goes!
Offer compliments

A little praise lets him know you’re interested. It also sparks a romantic vibe when he thinks about you, as it’s a subtle yet meaningful way to flirt! Next time you see him, mention how much you like the shirt he’s wearing. If he always picks interesting books to read, tell him you admire his taste in literature! Keep your compliments simple so he still has room to pursue you. Overdoing it might make him feel shy, especially since he’s naturally reserved.
- For example, if he chooses great songs during a group hangout, casually say, “I love every song you picked. This album is amazing!”
Flirt a little

Keep it brief and subtle if you want him to take the lead in pursuing you. When you bump into him on campus, casually mention how great he looks today. If you see him again the next day, simply smile and keep walking. He’ll likely wonder why you didn’t stop to chat, giving him the motivation to flirt back.
- There are countless ways to flirt. Share inside jokes, reference shared experiences, ask playful questions, or even respond to his Instagram stories with a fun emoji!
Get a little closer to him

Gently touch his shoulder during conversations. Since he’s shy (and maybe you are too!), you don’t want to cross personal boundaries or make him uncomfortable. Experiment with subtle physical touches, like a hug when saying goodbye after a party or brushing your leg against his when sitting close. These light but meaningful gestures can show your interest and encourage him to pursue you.
- Next time you meet, greet him with a hug. If that feels too bold, lightly touch his shoulder. If he likes you, these romantic gestures will keep him thinking about you!
- You can also try more discreet approaches. Walk close to him in the hallway so your shoulders brush or you accidentally bump into each other.
Keep living your life!

Don’t drop everything just to wait for him to pursue you. Guys, even shy ones, are often drawn to people with their own hobbies and interests. Make plans with friends, go on exciting outings, and continue activities you enjoy, like learning an instrument or rollerblading. If you want a guy to chase you, don’t always make yourself readily available.
- With a shy guy, balance is key. Avoid mentioning casual dates with others, as he might think you’re not interested in him.
- Share stories about the new hiking trail you discovered on your latest adventure!
Find out if he’s truly shy

Sometimes, it’s possible he’s just not interested. Observe how he interacts with others. If he’s quiet except around close friends, he might genuinely be shy. Alternatively, he could be nervous around you because he likes you. Look for signs like blushing when talking to you, sneaking glances and quickly looking away, or seeming flustered when you ask him something. These are all clues that he’s into you!
- If your efforts to get him to pursue you don’t seem to work no matter how hard you try, he might not be interested. It’s time to step back. He might change his mind later, or you might meet someone who’s a better match!
