I'm reading a book right now called "The Art of Mingling," which is teaching me a few new techniques on mingling. One technique they had is called the "Helpless Hannah" technique. The concept is that you ask several people in the party for a favor, just a quick one, and they report back to you throughout the evening.
The favors were simple. To one person, the author would walk up to someone and say "Excuse me. I'm trying to avoid someone at this party, but I can't tell you who it is. It's a long story. Is there any way if, when I signal you (makes up signal), you can come over and keep me company, just for a moment?"
Then to another person she'd say "I heard that someone at this party (club, bar, etc.) was in a movie, but I'm not sure who. Do you know who? Well, do you mind keeping your ears open, and if you hear anything please let me know."
And then a few other "favors" from people too. The goal is that if you send enough random people out into the crowd to do you a favor, some of them will report back to you throughout the night. This gives off the appearance to others that you are alpha, as random strangers are walking up to you to check in every few minutes.
My question is, how can this be applied to PUA? What types of favors could be asked of people? Would this work in all venues? I'm trying to refine this a little before I Field Test it, and wanted to get some feedback. Thanks folks!