<p data-start="212" data-end="614">We’ve all winced watching hopefuls crash and burn on reality TV dating shows. But before you risk joining the same fate, take note: <strong data-start="344" data-end="378">James Preece (The Dating Guru)</strong> and <strong data-start="383" data-end="401">Alexander Ziff</strong>, founder of the Ciao Dating app, say there are clear signs someone is romantically interested in you. Spot these five cues, and you’ll have a much better chance of narrowing down the field and finding Mr Right.</p> <hr data-start="616" data-end="619" /> <h4 data-start="621" data-end="646">1. Closing the gap</h4> <p data-start="647" data-end="891">Everyone has their personal space, but if someone is interested, they’ll try to get closer. That might mean placing a hand on your arm, leaning in, or subtly moving their chair nearer. If you respond positively, things could progress quickly.</p> <hr data-start="893" data-end="896" /> <h4 data-start="898" data-end="947">2. Rapid blinking and other physical tells</h4> <p data-start="948" data-end="1082">Excitement and prolonged eye contact can dry out the eyes, so rapid blinking is often a sign they like you. Other giveaways include:</p> <ul data-start="1083" data-end="1243"> <li data-start="1083" data-end="1118"> <p data-start="1085" data-end="1118">Fidgeting or restless movements</p> </li> <li data-start="1119" data-end="1137"> <p data-start="1121" data-end="1137">Dilated pupils</p> </li> <li data-start="1138" data-end="1150"> <p data-start="1140" data-end="1150">Blushing</p> </li> <li data-start="1151" data-end="1188"> <p data-start="1153" data-end="1188">Leaning toward you when you speak</p> </li> <li data-start="1189" data-end="1243"> <p data-start="1191" data-end="1243">Finding excuses to touch you or subtle lip-licking</p> </li> </ul> <hr data-start="1245" data-end="1248" /> <h4 data-start="1250" data-end="1294">3. Talking too much (and teasing you)</h4> <p data-start="1295" data-end="1495">Men who are interested often try to talk about themselves — not because they’re ignoring you, but because they want to impress. Teasing and playful banter are also common ways of showing attraction.</p> <hr data-start="1497" data-end="1500" /> <h4 data-start="1502" data-end="1535">4. Noticing little changes</h4> <p data-start="1536" data-end="1711">If they comment on a new hairstyle, a different outfit, or subtle changes in your appearance, it’s a good sign. People who aren’t interested rarely pick up on these details.</p> <hr data-start="1713" data-end="1716" /> <h4 data-start="1718" data-end="1747">5. Playing hard to get</h4> <p data-start="1748" data-end="1962">Some people intentionally act distant early on. They might delay texting back or avoid making you feel “special” to appear in-demand. Don’t overinterpret this behaviour — it’s often just part of the dating dance.</p> <hr data-start="1964" data-end="1967" /> <p data-start="1969" data-end="2144">Recognising these signs can help you see who’s genuinely interested and avoid wasting time on the wrong people. Keep an eye out, trust your instincts, and enjoy the process!</p>
