8 Signs He Likes You But Wants You to Make the First Move

Have you ever felt like a guy might be into you, but he never makes a move? Sometimes guys are interested but feel shy, nervous, or unsure about taking the first step. Recognizing the subtle signs can help you understand his feelings and decide if you want to make the first move yourself.

1. He Keeps Finding Excuses to Be Near You

Ever notice how he always seems to pop up wherever you are?

Maybe he sits close to you in class or happens to be at the same coffee shop every Saturday morning.

His presence is no accident.

Guys who like someone will create opportunities to be around them, hoping you’ll start a conversation.

Pay attention to how often your paths cross.

If it happens more than chance would allow, he’s probably positioning himself for you to notice him.

This behavior shows interest without requiring him to risk rejection.

He’s waiting for you to bridge the gap and say hello first.

2. His Body Language Gives Him Away

Watch how his body reacts when you’re around.

Does he lean toward you during conversations?

Does he face you directly even when talking to others?

Body language reveals what words sometimes hide.

Open posture, uncrossed arms, and consistent eye contact all signal attraction and interest.

Notice if he mirrors your movements or gestures.

This subconscious behavior happens when someone feels connected to you and wants to build rapport.

His feet might point in your direction, or he might stand a little taller.

These physical cues show he’s interested but waiting for encouragement from you.

3. He Engages With Your Social Media Constantly

Every post you share gets immediate attention from him, whether it’s likes, story views, or thoughtful comments.

Social media engagement is the modern way of showing interest.

When a guy consistently interacts with your online presence, he’s trying to stay on your radar.

He might share posts he thinks you’d enjoy or react to your content with more than just a simple like.

These actions show he pays attention to your interests.

This digital attention is his safe way of staying connected.

He’s hoping you’ll notice his interest and reach out to start a deeper conversation.

4. He Gets Nervous or Shy Around You

Some guys become surprisingly awkward when they’re around someone they like.

He might stumble over words, laugh at odd moments, or avoid direct eye contact.

Nervousness often stems from wanting to make a good impression.

When someone cares about your opinion, they feel pressure not to mess things up.

You might catch him blushing or fidgeting with his phone or keys.

These small signs reveal his internal anxiety about being near you.

His shyness isn’t disinterest—it’s the opposite.

He likes you enough to feel vulnerable, and he’s hoping you’ll make things easier by initiating contact.

5. He Asks His Friends About You

Have mutual friends mentioned that he’s been asking about you?

This classic move shows genuine interest without direct confrontation.

Guys often gather information through their social circle to gauge whether pursuing someone is worth the risk.

Questions about your relationship status or interests are telling signs.

His friends might even tease him when you’re around or try to push you two together.

They likely know about his feelings and are trying to help.

This indirect approach lets him learn more about you while protecting his pride.

He’s building courage but needs a signal from you to take the next step.

6. He Remembers Small Details You’ve Mentioned

Weeks after you mention a favorite band, he brings it up, demonstrating that he notices even tiny details.

This behavior shows he values what you say and thinks about you when you’re not around.

Remembering preferences, stories, or random facts requires genuine interest.

He might reference something you said in passing or ask follow-up questions about your hobbies.

This attentiveness is his way of showing he cares.

Most people forget casual conversations quickly.

If he remembers yours, he’s invested in getting to know you better and hopes you’ll notice his efforts.

7. He Tries to Impress You in Subtle Ways

He often mentions his accomplishments or talents when you’re around, highlighting his skills, grades, or recent achievements more than usual.

Showing off isn’t always obvious—sometimes it’s mentioning a cool project or displaying knowledge about topics you care about.

He wants you to see his best qualities.

He might offer to help you with something he’s good at or demonstrate a skill casually.

These moments are calculated to catch your attention.

This behavior reveals his desire to stand out and be seen as valuable.

He’s building his case for why you should be interested, waiting for your response.

8. He Lingers After Group Hangouts End

When everyone else leaves, does he find reasons to stick around?

Maybe he offers to help clean up or suddenly has more to talk about.

Lingering is a clear sign someone wants more time with you.

He’s creating opportunities for one-on-one interaction without the pressure of asking you out directly.

These extended moments allow deeper conversations and connection.

He’s testing whether you enjoy his company as much as he enjoys yours.

If you notice this pattern, he’s definitely interested but waiting for a signal.

Staying behind takes effort and shows he’s hoping you’ll initiate something more personal.