Top 10+ Ways To Show Someone You're Interested & 10 Ways To Show Them You're Not
- 1. Bring Them Their Favorite Snack
- 2. Text Them To Say You’re Thinking About Them
- 3. Make Eye Contact And Hold It A Little Longer
- 4. Save A Seat For Them
- 5. Lean In When They Talk
- 6. Remember Their Schedule
- 7. Sit Closer Than You Need To
- 8. Surprise Them With Something They Mentioned
- 9. Offer To Help With Something They’re Stressed About
- 10. Laugh At Their Jokes Even When They’re A Little Bad
- 1. Limit Texting And Calling
- 2. Avoid Physical Contact
- 3. Give Short Responses
- 4. Decline Invitations Politely
- 5. Communicate Your Intentions
- 6. Show Disinterest In Personal Details
- 7. Spend Time With Others
- 8. Change Your Body Language
- 9. Don’t Go Out of Your Way
- 10. Avoid Compliments Or Flirty Banter
Mastering The Signals

When you like someone, it can feel like you're walking a tightrope—balancing between showing interest and, well, not overdoing it. On the flip side, if you’re just not feeling the spark, it can be equally tricky to communicate that without causing a scene. So first, let’s take a look at ten ways you can show someone you're interested before moving on to ways you can hint that you're just not that into them.
1. Bring Them Their Favorite Snack

Chips, gummy bears, or wasabi peas, whatever lights up their taste buds, is your secret weapon. Plus, noticing what they nibble and showing up with it screams attentiveness. It’s food, yes, but it’s also comfort and presence, all rolled into a bite.
2. Text Them To Say You’re Thinking About Them

Out of nowhere, a message pops up: “Saw this and thought of you.” It’s simple and effective. You’re not asking for anything and just showing you care when there’s nothing to gain. That tiny digital nudge could be their favorite notification all day.
3. Make Eye Contact And Hold It A Little Longer

Eyes do all the talking when words take the day off. So, when you're talking, let your gaze linger a beat longer than usual. It says they have your full attention. Paired with a grin or raised brow, the glance becomes a moment neither of you forgets.
4. Save A Seat For Them

In a group setting, claiming a seat next to you speaks volumes. It’s a small but meaningful gesture that says, “I want you close.” You’re not just making room—you’re subtly letting them know they’re the one you’re hoping to sit with.
5. Lean In When They Talk

Tables can feel like fences. Shrink the space. Let your body say, “I want to hear you better.” A subtle lean during their story, paired with a soft smile or a head tilt, turns a casual conversation into a shared atmosphere. It defines closeness without a whisper.
6. Remember Their Schedule

Track the stuff that matters to them, like midterms, dentist appointments, and even awkward family dinners. If it’s big for them, make it big for you. Drop a quick check-in before or after. You weren’t told to remember, yet you did, and that always means something.
7. Sit Closer Than You Need To

Sitting closer than necessary can create a more intimate atmosphere, signaling your interest and making the other person feel valued. It's important not to invade personal space too aggressively, but subtly closing the gap can build a sense of connection.
8. Surprise Them With Something They Mentioned

One of the most thoughtful ways to show someone you're interested is by remembering something they mentioned casually, and surprising them with it later. The key here is paying attention to the little details in conversations.
9. Offer To Help With Something They’re Stressed About

Don’t just offer sympathy—offer hands. However, make sure your offer is genuine and respectful of their needs, as some people may prefer to handle things on their own. Still, just the act of offering is often enough to make them feel cared for and valued.
10. Laugh At Their Jokes Even When They’re A Little Bad

Laughter is an instant way to connect, and by laughing at their jokes, you’re showing that you appreciate their sense of humor, no matter how silly or imperfect it may be. It creates a lighthearted atmosphere and makes the other person feel seen and validated.
Now, let’s toss in ten ways to make it crystal clear when you’re just not that into them.
1. Limit Texting And Calling

A rapid reply to every message might feel like you're building rapport, but if you want to signal disinterest, slow down your texting pace. Limit your responses to essential details, and don't engage in late-night chats. The message is simple: your attention isn’t readily available.
2. Avoid Physical Contact

Imagine the difference between a casual high-five and a lingering hug. Your touch says more than words ever could. By keeping physical distance, you subtly reinforce the message that there’s no interest in getting physically close.
3. Give Short Responses

Have you ever felt the cold sting of receiving just a "cool" or "okay" in response to your detailed text? Such short answers can also be your best weapon for signaling distance. A “yes” or “no” can say everything while leaving no room for further emotional engagement.
4. Decline Invitations Politely

When you're not interested in pursuing a relationship, it’s essential to decline invitations in a respectful and polite manner. Rather than making excuses, be straightforward yet kind. Avoid over-explaining or offering false reasons—keeping it simple and sincere is key.
5. Communicate Your Intentions

Sometimes, honesty is the simplest solution. If the other person doesn’t catch the signals, it’s time to spell things out. Let them know you're not looking for romance or a deeper connection. Doing so ensures there’s no lingering ambiguity.
6. Show Disinterest In Personal Details

It’s better to keep the conversations surface-level. Avoid revealing much about your private life, and steer clear of engaging in deep personal topics. For example, when asked about your family or relationships, respond with general answers like, “I’m just focused on work right now.”
7. Spend Time With Others

Nothing says “I’m not interested” quite like prioritizing other people. By spending time with friends, family, or even acquaintances, you’re signaling where your attention truly lies. It’s an easy way to show you’re not looking for something deeper with them.
8. Change Your Body Language

Keep a relaxed but slightly distant posture to show you're not too into the conversation. Stay casually focused on your phone or surroundings. These subtle signals help you set boundaries politely without making things awkward or needing to say much directly.
9. Don’t Go Out of Your Way

When you're genuinely interested in someone, you’ll often make little sacrifices—changing plans or adjusting your schedule. But when you're not feeling that connection, it’s okay to keep your effort minimal. If something feels inconvenient or takes extra energy, don’t force it.
10. Avoid Compliments Or Flirty Banter

This one is a no-brainer. If you're not into someone, skip the sweet talk. Avoid giving compliments that could be misread or leaning into playful banter. Keeping things neutral helps prevent mixed signals and keeps expectations in check.