Homer Simpson: "CHLOROFORM? I thought you said Colorforms!"

A. Make eye contact, smile and wave, say hi. Start talking, but not too much. Score.

B. If I can tell the conversation is going nowhere, 8/10 times this means she has a cat. I inevitably bring up my cat and she will brighten up and start grabbing me and wants to talk about her cat. Score.

C. If the conversation is really going nowhere and I'm just plain trying too hard, I'll end up talking too much and I'll eventually either 1. say something stupid, cornering myself in a monologue. 2. end up accidentally spitting on her as I talk. 3. blow out a booger as I laugh at my own joke. Not score -- leave -- drag my pride out while it's still confused.

So in essence, be friendly, have something to talk about, be cool (don't drool). Know what you're going to say next, learn to steer and segue conversations to topics you're at ease talking about. Don't talk about work.