13 Ways to Get a Guy to Notice You Without Talking to Him at School

Written by Lisa Shield | Edited by Megaera Lorenz, PhD

Last Updated: December 9, 2024 Fact Checked

Maybe you’re too shy to approach that cute guy who sits in front of you in class, or maybe you just enjoy the challenge of getting him to make the first move. Either way, you might be wondering how to get his attention without actually starting a conversation. Luckily, there are a lot of things you can do to make yourself stand out. In this article, we’ll guide you through a few simple ways to get your crush to notice you.

This article is based on an interview with our professional dating and life coach, Lisa Shield. Check out the full interview here.

How to Attract Your Crush’s Attention Without Talking

Make eye contact with your crush and smile at him.
Sit near him in class, in the cafeteria, or at the library.
Participate and ask questions in class.
Flirt with him by shooting him glances or playing with your hair.
Wear clothes that make you feel confident and flatter you.

1

Smile at him.

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Don’t be afraid to light up when he looks your way. If there’s one thing that’s almost guaranteed to catch a guy’s eye, it’s a warm, friendly smile.^{[1]
X
Research source} If he glances at you, don’t pretend you don’t notice. Instead, catch his eye and flash him your pearly whites.
- You don’t have to give him a big grin if it makes you feel self-conscious. In fact, a mysterious little smile can be even more intriguing.^{[2]
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- A smile shows that you’re friendly and interested in him, which will make him feel a lot more comfortable about coming over to talk to you.

2

Make eye contact.

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Hold his gaze for a few seconds. Eye contact is a great way to get someone’s attention and let them know that you’re interested in them. Lock eyes with him for just a tiny bit longer than you normally would.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}
- Don’t stare at him so long that it starts to feel really awkward. Just a couple seconds is usually a good length of time!^{[4]
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3

Play with your hair.

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You could also try running your fingers through your hair or twirling a lock around your finger when he looks your way. However you do it, fiddling with your hair is a classic, subtle way to flirt.^{[5]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}

4

Throw him a glance over your shoulder.

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Let him literally turn your head. Try pulling this move when you walk by him in the hall, at lunch, or on your way out of the classroom. As you walk by, turn your head and look back at him, just for a moment.^{[6]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}
- Don’t forget to smile if he looks back at you!

Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: Does He Like Me?

Some guys can feel like a total mystery. How can you figure out if he likes you as just a friend—or if he wants something more? Take this quiz to find out!

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When you two are in a room filled with other people, how often do you catch him staring at you?

Constantly! I swear, he’s always looking right back at me.

I’ve noticed him staring a few times, yeah.

I think I’ve caught him staring once or twice.

Nope, I’ve never noticed that.

5

Get close to him.

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If you see him studying in the library, sit nearby. Move in close to him next time the teacher calls everyone over to look at something. You can even try a light touch here and there—for instance, let your hand brush against his arm as you both reach for a napkin in the dining hall.^{[7]
X
Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}

6

Keep your body language friendly.

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Stand tall and relax your shoulders. Let your arms hang loose at your sides instead of crossing them over your chest. All this will help you look more chill, open, and approachable.^{[8]
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Trustworthy Source

HelpGuide
Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources.

Go to source} It will also make you look (and maybe even feel!) more confident.
- Your crush is less likely to want to approach if you cross your arms, stare at the floor, or keep your shoulders hunched up. This kind of closed off body language can send pretty strong “leave me alone” signals.
- Remember to breathe! Taking slow, deep breaths may help you relax and feel more at ease around him.^{[9]
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  Expert Source
  
  Lisa Shield
  Dating Coach
  
  Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}

7

Dress nicely.

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Looking nice will help you catch his eye. Choose outfits that fit well, flatter you, and help you feel confident. Make sure your clothes are clean and tidy.^{[10]
X
Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.} If you want, throw on an eye-catching accessory, like a colorful sweater or a cool statement necklace.
- Don’t forget to style your hair!
- You can also wear a bit of subtle makeup, if you want.
- You probably want him to be attracted to you for who you really are, so be yourself! Wear stuff that you feel comfortable with and that expresses your true personality.

8

Do something unexpected.

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Don’t be afraid to be spontaneous or act a little silly. Doing something surprising or out of the ordinary will definitely catch his attention. It’s also a good way to let your sense of humor and fun shine! It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. For example, you might:^{[11]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}
- Write your number on a paper airplane and toss it so it lands on his desk.
- Catch his eye, then do a simple magic trick.
- Make a silly face or wink at him when he looks your way.

9

Speak up in class.

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He won’t notice you if always keep your head down. If you share a class with him, don’t be shy about asking questions. Next time you think you know the answer, raise your hand. Be ready to jump into the next discussion with a thoughtful comment. Your crush just might pay attention if you make your voice heard.^{[12]
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- If you’re not in any classes with him, look for other ways to stand out when you’re around him. For instance, you could strike up a conversation with someone else in his group at lunch.

10

Put your phone away.

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When you’re around him, put your phone down or keep it in your bag or pocket. If you’re looking up and engaging with the world around you, he just might notice—and he’ll be more likely to come over and chat.^{[13]
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11

Show genuine care for others.

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Let him see your kind and loving side. Being your best, most loveable self is a great way to get his attention. Make a point of being helpful, friendly, and courteous to everyone around you, whether your crush is there or not. If he is there, he may take notice—and if he’s not, word may still get back to him about how awesome you are.^{[14]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}
- For instance, you might offer to help a classmate who’s struggling with something, volunteer to help clean up after lunch, or brighten someone’s day with a sincere compliment.

12

Spend time around him without your posse.

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Guys sometimes find big groups intimidating. If you have a large group of friends, try not to always be with them when you’re around your crush. You’ll stand out more if you’re by yourself or just with one or two other friends. Plus, he’ll probably feel more comfortable approaching you that way.^{[15]
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- If you see your crush and you’re with a big group, look for an excuse to move away from them. For instance, if you’re at lunch, say something like, “Excuse me, guys, I forgot to grab a napkin.”

13

Relax and be yourself.

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Don’t try to be someone you’re not around him. Just be the best, most genuine version of yourself! You’ll feel more confident and relaxed that way, and he just might notice.^{[16]
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- Remember, if he’s not attracted to who you really are, then you probably aren’t a great match to begin with.