So, I was sitting in lab today, and witnessed abject failure.

Near me was a HB8.5, and some tall decent-looking guy came up to her. He was talking in a very meek, unsure tone, and started a conversation today. Now, she was sitting at a computer, and he was behind her, talking to her. She seemed decently excited at first, and turned around to talk to him. She knew him from before.

He started complaining about his work, which in my book is never a good idea (Don't want to seem negative), and eventually turned the conversation to her. She started to show signals of disinterest, giving short answers that really didn't contribute to the conversation - and it was clear she was just trying to be nice.

He then reached over to her computer (over her), and she leaned way out of his way, as he tried something on her computer. Again, she felt uncomfortable here.

He didn't get the hint and still stayed, meekly trying to talk, and eventually put his hand on her head. (I missed the foreplay to this moment). She immediately moved away, and he kept questioning why.

I could see him trying to initiate contact behind her, but it clearly wasn't going to work - this girl already had enough. Soon, he took the hint, and left - but not after ruining his chances with her.

TL;DR - Confidence is key. Also, planning your approach is helpful. This guy could have played it well, as she at first sounded like she wanted a break from work, but he ruined it. Although - he did have the confidence to talk to her.