Man that's fucking tedious. Thing I like about in-person meetings, which is the only way I've ever ended up in a relationship with someone, is that I don't have to be a fucking salesman and can just be me.
I do both. The dating landscape has changed, or so it seems. I time capsuled for 10 years (2 long-term relationships that happened quickly one after another). Imagine my shock when I noticed many people are online now. I meet people IRL (actually right now I just met someone on the train :P). But it really does have a different feel to it nowadays.
Did you go up and initiate conversation with that person on the train? I feel like interacting with strangers has been heavily discouraged in the US but it's really the best way to expand your social circle.
I initiated by saying: I like your scarf-jacket combo. Did you match it on purpose?
Note: when giving a compliment, expect nothing in return. Simply know that you prefer a conversation but be ready to jump out at a moment’s notice when she isn’t feeling it.
Her: haha, no I always have this scarf
Me: even with a deep purple coat?
Her: even then…
Me: oh god… going to Berlin?
Her: yep, you?
Me: same, I think almost everyone is going to Berlin
