Can't get over this feeling that somehow I think they might be thinking that I'm hitting on them (which I want to do) instead of actually shopping and genuinely asking questions.

For example, somewhat busy mom and pop store, girl working cashier. I should have been able to get her alone, somewhere else (not in front of cashier machine), and start gaming her.

Another example, I was recently at Target, girl organizing shelf, of product I just recently grabbed. I should have asked "What do you think of this product I'm getting for my nephew?" (I was actually shopping, but wouldn't have mind the pracitice). But by that time I felt like a lurker ... which I heard creeps women out.

brother are you actually opening conversation with them or just lingering!?if you find yourself lingering move on man you have taken too long, I think its just practice. Who cares if they realise your hitting on them, some girls react well to that . You arent going to really know how your being perceived unless you actually interact in this environment a few times. Just get in there man remember the "3 second rule"just jump in there and sink or float it doesnt matter, its all experience to better your gaming average

I'm a pro at this!

The challenge with "hired guns" who work in the service industry (food and retail) is that they are constantly working, have sales goals to meet and you will not be able to build comfort in 20 minutes not matter how interested the girl is into you.

Open her with a Functional Opener, "I love this shirt but does it suit my body shape", hook her with something like "Im going to a (party you assume will interest her) and I like to make an effort"
Transition by taking the conversation ina direction she will be wanting more. If its quiet and the boss is away get 15 minutes out of her.
If its before lunch either have lunch (however some people only get 30 minutes to walk, grab and eat it) so arrange to meet her after work and help her with logisitics if you have a car to make up the delay.

Avoid Saturdays for making after works plans as a) you need to come across as popular yourself and that you have acitivities and interests except her and b) they flake less as during the week they more than likely don't have anything going on.

Are you sure its not all in your head? Look, you CAN flirt openly with HB's as long as you exude confidence. Instead of verbal negs, use your body language to convey lack of interest. Just make sure you are doing it at an appropriate time. For example, if she's a cashier, wait until she's helping you out to start a conversation, and work to establish rapport and interest as quickly as possible.

Thanks for the functional opener. I'll have to try that sometimes, maybe when I try on clothes at the fit rooms, there's usually girls managing that area.

Cashier ... is hard to get them alone. Unless there are not customers; and it's just me or a few, and she is re-stock or something.