Irish people think more about sex than their European counterparts at a rate of 3.68 times a day, according to a survey by Lastminute.com.

But despite our amorous thought patterns, and clear competence for ‘the craic’, there is a common perception that we are far from competent in the art of flirting.

If your chat up lines have been missing the mark, you may need to work on your charisma.

Love is quite scientific. Attraction is 55 per cent body language, 38 per cent tone of voice and 7 per cent what a person says.

Ask open-ended questions, engage in small talk; don’t mention the weather, and be aware of your inner thoughts.

Studies show that people respond better to those who think positively. Before you head out, do some mental preparation, reassure yourself that you are interesting and fun.

Stating the obvious a bit, but presentation is key when you’re on the approach, so dress well and be confident in yourself.

Women take issue with inappropriate shoes on men, so guys, always avoid trainers with suits, flip-flops with jeans, and never under any circumstances wear socks and sandles.

Smile. It is proven to make you more attractive, lift the face and make you look younger. It changes your mood and when you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you.

If the thought of talking to a member of the opposite sex is truly terrifying for you, href="http://www.nlp.ie/training/intensive-courses/mastering-charisma.html">you can even take classes to learn how to flirt.