Q: I'm interested in this guy I see occasionally in a professional setting. We don't work together directly, but seem to be in the same room together on a semi-regular basis. I'm sure he's noticed me, but he hasn't said anything beyond the corporate niceties. How do I ask him out without seeming like a stalker?

A: Whether it's a law office or an Applebee's, he's definitely noticed you. We know this because most single guys have a working knowledge or at least an awareness of any female colleagues they come in contact with on a regular basis, and they have ranked them in their minds according to potential ``date material.''

Why he hasn't made the first move is open to interpretation. Is he married, gay or your direct supervisor? Case solved! Someone hasn't been doing their Google homework. Assuming he's eligible for your charms, here are a few ideas:

• Slip him your business card with your personal number written on the back. The only downside to this approach is that it's vague -- he might get the idea that you're only after a quick assignation in the corporate broom closet, which would be unfortunate. Unless you're into that sort of thing.

• Take the direct approach. Next time you're in the same room, strike up a conversation, casually dropping the information that you have a two-for-one coupon for lunch at Applebee's, and ask whether he'd like to join you. A fellow's got to eat, right?

• Flirt! It perhaps the most effective, time-honored and enjoyable technique available in your situation. A winning disposition, some witty banter and a little jokey-jokey, punctuated by subtle but well-timed touching -- we're talking a light touch on the arm while you snicker at one of his attempts at humor, as opposed to lovingly stroking his hair -- is pretty much irresistible to a man if there's any chemistry in the room at all.

Feel free to mix and match these techniques, or use all three! If you don't get much of a response, the dude's probably not for you anyway.

Male Call answers questions on etiquette, relationships, men's style and more. Write to malecall@mercurynews.com.

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