If you're tired of guys approaching you at public places with cheesy pick-up lines and a request for your phone number, you finally have a saviour. Not only will you be spared from an awkward situation, but the fact that you felt uncomfortable will also be communicated clearly.
It often happens that we are unable to directly say 'no' to people in fear of sounding rude. Most women have faced such a situation in which a guy strikes up a conversation and you cannot get out of it. Now, if he asks for your number and you refuse, you may be subjected to further coaxing and even pressurising. The guy might also get aggressive.
To avoid such a situation, you can now take the help of a hotline. The brand new Mary Sue Rejection Hotline is a fake number that you can give to unwanted suitors or attention-seekers. It is basically a fake number that will play an automated response if someone calls it, reports Metro.
You can easily give this number when you don't want to divulge your real contact details. If the guy calls it, he will get a response saying that his actions were unappreciated. And if he tries to text it, he will get this reply: "Oh hello there. If you're hearing this message, you've made a woman feel unsafe and/or disrespected. Please learn to take no for an answer and respect women's emotional and physical autonomy. K Thanks."
Sounds like a safe escape, right? Well, unless the guy gives you a 'just checking' call right after you've given him the number, in which case he'll hear the message right in front of you. That might lead to a majorly embarrassing situation. Also, this strategy works best only if you don't mind lying and are an escapist when needed.
Although this can be considered a feasible backup plan, the first instinct should always be to speak the truth. Let the guy know you don't wish to be friendly. And if he still persists or you can't be that upfront, here are a few things you can do:
- Alter one or two digits of your real number and give it to him. That way you can pretend to have misspoken if he calls you on the spot. You can always block him later.
- Say politely that you're not interested. If he asks why, smile, wave goodbye and start walking.
- You can always pretend to remember an urgent work or phone call. Pretend to get on the phone, put on a serious expression and leave.
- If you feel the guy is being creepy, talk loudly to attract the attention of passers-by. He will become nervous and back off.
- Tell the guy, if he's being aggressive, that your friend/boyfriend is waiting for you nearby. Let them know you're not alone in that place.
- Be confident and sure of what you're saying. Say a firm no. Never let him feel your fear or apprehension.
