That is a requirement of the principle of safe -- which also applies to you. Above all else, be respectful, kind and courteous no matter what their response is. If he say, Oh, rats! A simple compliment or two can go a long way in making a good impression on someone; let them know what drew you towards them in the first place! I did think your point about women being discouraged from asking men out was really interesting. Also regarding not having much time because there's a lineup. I know people who have met because they ride the same train to work every day or theyve attended the same sporting event. Working retail, this happens so, so frequently that it stops being flattering and becomes another work annoyance that you have to deal with, plus the unease of not knowing how someone is going to react if you reject them. If you do say anything, I suggest giving her an easy out, such as: "Would you like to get coffee after work, or do you have a policy against socializing with customers?". Id have to look it up, but I think its actually prohibited at the gym I work at to ask out members. But I can admit to having a thing for ONE of my customers, so I cant say it never happened. How to get to know a service staff without interrupting her work? how do I avoid mom energy with my younger employees? Could, please, the downvoters explain why they do so ? I got hit on by so many men when I was 16ish that could have been my father. Women arent delicate flowers and men, as a gender whole, arent big scary monsters. As long as she's doing anything related to her job (which does involve commuting to and from her home) you leave her alone. OP, I did this once. She could always change her answer or answer in a positive way to give you more information. It pays No one likes that. A Woman, traveling alone!!! Too direct an approach also creates a Huge Awkwardness when you visit the shop in the future, as now she must explain her rejection. Most? Ill remain concerned that if a trend of two people people meeting public and getting to know each other has become zomg dangerous and exploitative, and dont know how yall are going to make it through. just joking. I flirted and flirted with himI mean REALLY laid it on thick and I couldnt figure out why he wasnt responding. Bustle