Ditching dating apps, Gen Z is opting for real-life encounters. Here are 4 expert tips.

While Gen Z prefers meeting people in real life, the tech-savvy generation may struggle with navigating romance in person.

Online dating apps are becoming less popular among young adults, particularly Gen Z, who were born between 1997 and 2012. In the U.S., only 26% of 18 to 29-year-olds use online dating services, compared to 61% of 30 to 49-year-olds, according to Statista data from September 2023.

The younger generation no longer finds dating apps cool because they realize that these companies prioritize making money over providing a good user experience, as stated by Jeff Guenther, a licensed professional counselor and author of "Big Dating Energy."

"According to Guenther, who spoke to CNBC Make It, signing up for dating apps enriches tech boys and Silicon Valley investors by keeping users on the app for as long as possible, allowing them to generate revenue without actually matching users with compatible partners."

Guenther highlighted the numerous app features concealed behind paywalls, and users encountering recurrent "micro-rejections" such as ghosting that keeps them captivated.

Small rejections can negatively impact self-esteem, self-worth, and mental health, making it difficult to feel good about oneself in that environment.

Over half of Gen Z users on Hinge are afraid of rejection, and this fear has hindered them from pursuing potential relationships, according to Hinge's dating trends report published in February 2024.

A survey of 1,001 U.S. respondents found that Gen Z is increasingly turning away from dating apps and opting for more traditional methods of meeting people in real life.

According to Eventbrite, nearly half of Gen Zers are interested in meeting potential partners through their friends, while approximately one-third are optimistic that it will occur in their daily routine.

Guenther stated that since they grew up with iPhones in their hands, they might not have much experience with flirting in real life and taking risks. It can be intimidating to interact with others in person and put oneself out there, such as asking someone on a date.

Guenther and Courtney Boyer, a relationship and sexuality expert, imparted four top tips for Gen Z to connect with others in person.

Make your intentions known

One simple way to increase your chances of meeting people in real life is to inform your social circle that you are seeking a romantic relationship, according to Boyer.

"Express your intentions and be open to discomfort," she advised CNBC Make It. "Many people are naturally skilled at connecting others."

Guenther agreed, stating that asking friends to set you up is an effortless and accessible way to meet more individuals, as your friends are well-acquainted with your personality and preferences.

'Go be in the real world'

To meet people, you have to be outside, Guenther said, as young people are often glued to their smartphones and prefer staying home.

"To build connections, immerse yourself in activities, events, or social settings like bars and clubs," he advised.

He suggested that we could continue doing what we've always done, which involves intentionally exploring unique and interesting spaces, such as movies, learning pottery, camping with friends, or attending rallies and marches with like-minded individuals, and joining organizations that align with our core beliefs.

Have 'open body language'

To connect with people, you need to have "open body language," according to Guenther.

Guenther stated that it's acceptable to make eye contact with another person for two to three seconds and then approach them to say "Hi, how's it going?"

He stated that it's not necessary to have a witty or humorous remark.

He recommends posing open-ended questions and observing if the individual provides lengthier responses.

"The key is to establish a connection, engage in a casual and pleasant conversation, and assess if they are receptive to communication."

If the person seems disinterested, it's crucial to interpret it as a signal and proceed accordingly.

Add value to other people's lives

Instead of being overly fixated on dating, Boyer advises cultivating genuine relationships and seeking opportunities to enrich others' lives.

On a girls' trip to Paris with her friends, she encountered an appealing man.

"As I strolled down the street in Paris, I spotted a stunning man and exclaimed, "Oh my gosh, you have the most beautiful smile!" He replied, "Oh my gosh, thank you!" We continued walking until he stopped at a traffic light, turned around, and asked, "Do you have Instagram?""

She stated that the purpose of this interaction was not to obtain validation or to make the guy like her, but to bring happiness to someone else.

As she walked down the street, the woman wasn't thinking about how her future husband would like her or how amazing she was. Instead, she was focused on paying it forward and wanted the man to know he had a great smile.

Boyer stated that sometimes this could result in something more, but other times it wouldn't. The statement "I need to find a boyfriend, I gotta go home with some guy" is actually "gross and off-putting."

She emphasized that being enjoyable and having a great time is more enticing and inviting.