HOW TO PULL AT A CHRISTMAS PARTY

DO use your eyes
Good flirty eye contact is worth a bazillion chat-up lines. When you've spotted your prey, look quickly at him, look away, then look back. If you meet his eye the second time, he's interested.

DO make like a mirror
To reel him in, make him think that you have a connection. Subtly mirror his posture and behaviour. Say, sip your drink just after he sips his. Don't do it too obviously, or he'll think you're taking the piss.

DO read his signals
If he likes you, he'll follow your eye contact by pushing his shoulders back and puffing out his chest (yes, it's a primate thing). Also watch for a suppressed smile and super-quick raised eyebrows.

DO make small talk
Now stop faffing and strike up a conversation. Keep your opener brief and casual. The best chat-ups are friendly banter about what's going on around you: what the booze is like; who the hell chose this music; where all the canapes have gone.

DO make it plain that you're interested
Forget about playing hard to get, or you'll just go home alone again. If you fancy a guy and start talking to him, maintain eye contact and touch him gently on the arm as you talk.

DO listen
If you find him interesting, he'll find you interesting. Remember things he's mentioned early in the conversation and subtly repeat them later, worded differently. He'll think you've got loads in common.

DO ask if he fancies a kiss under the mistletoe
Men are just as shy as women when it comes to sealing the deal. You'll make his day (or night) if you ask him to pucker up - and any dangling mistletoe gives you the perfect excuse. Don't grab his head and start sucking face, but let your lips linger for just a moment longer than is necessary.

DO know when to cut and run
Life is short, and parties are even shorter. Don't waste time on men who aren't interested. If he draws back when you touch his arm, or he changes the subject when you mention mistletoe, try another bloke.