First off , be nice, really nice and don't treat them like they are meat, they are women and are everywhere. Communicate, but do it with confidence. Stay away from married women or someone's lady, you are asking for trouble. And if there's serious flags in the beginning, I'm not telling you to run (you should) but can you deal with those red flags and maybe you have some of your own flags. The chemistry may be there. And if you find a 'cool' chick, they are hard to find, make her your best friend at least, and if you can date her and hold onto her, I would. She will always understand and get you. Don't be afraid to try, and as much as I know this hurts, if it only lasts for awhile, and you have to part ways, my opinion is it's better to have had that time with her than not at all. All relationships take work, and compromise, and sometimes people change. Enjoy the good times and bond, hopefully love. One of the best feelings in the world. And it's ok if it doesn't last forever. You win some , and you lose some, but at least you played the game and had an awesome time doing it.
Some good points in the posts here. Best of luck. - G