Don’t be afraid: How do you approach a flirt?

Nice, the answers keep pouring in. Thanks guys.

I can very much relate to what Pseudomysosaur said. There are certain levels of first contact, which depend on the general goal.

I like to give the opportunity for setting the goal to the situation and aim for no particular outcome.
The first flirt usually never happens without a contact beforehand - i.e. a look, a touch, a smile, or any other form of nonverbal hint. If I recognize this or a positive reaction to a similar approach by me, I feel invited to talk.

It is a thin line to walk between such an invitation and a misunderstanding. But that makes it interesting in the first place. In my books, the conversation should, always be centered around the setting, the situation and people involved, meaning that I despise generalized tactics or starters. Except, I always start with a friendly "hello" and introduction of myself followed by asking her (mostly) for her name. I find this inviting, at the same time as it is a chance for her to turn down the conversation.

Everything afterwards is highly unique and, again, centered around the setting. What I meant, when I said "I like my opposite to set the goal" was, that I like to openly ask about herself and her interests. It is up to her, whether she answers with hobbies, studies, job, family, sex, dancing or whatever. It gives her the chance to choose something she feels comfortable with to create a relaxed environment for the conversation. An openly started conversation leaves a wide variety of topics, avoiding a narrow frame about how the flirt should turn out.

I realize quickly if her topic and way of talking is also something that suits me well or not, i.e. whether we "click" or not. The direction of this flirt naturally leads to either friendship, sexual tension, a good talk, or even nothing.

The only important thing, for me, is to not have a certain goal in mind. It leaves too little space for something bigger to develop.

Stay curious.
Narfz.