I often see the advice that during an approach, especially cold approaches, a man should “bring value” rather than “take value.” But I’m struggling to fully understand what that looks like in practice.

In most of my experiences when I approach women in public, I barely get the chance to say much. Before I can deliver my “sales pitch” or even make a proper introduction, I’m quickly brushed off with things like “I don’t have time,” “I’m busy,” or just “not interested.” It’s like the door gets shut before I can even step inside.

So my question is:

What does it really mean to bring value in an interaction from the very start, especially when I barely get a chance to talk? And how do I avoid coming across as someone who’s “taking value” when all I’m trying to do is connect? How to change that?