Well, for what women like to talk about, I think it really depends on the woman...if your seeking to get married and would like to know proper conversation topics when meeting her & her family..erm.., I guess her studies/career, her interests, hobbies, Islam is a perfect topic...her family, choose something easy that will get you more than a yes/no answer.
And as for earning her respect/confidence, HA, I could write about this for hours! (I won't,don't worry!.lol) Alright, I am not quite sure of the situation you are in, is it approaching a woman for marriage purposes? I believe so..because of the title of this topic,therefore, I will advise you from this point of view.
Well, the first thing you should do, to earn her respect, is approach someone that she knows(if truly impossible,approach her) BUT let your righteous
intentions be clear.
Trust me, this will earn you a greeeat deal of respect.Why? because men rarely(well,from where I come from at least) do that anymore. Seriously. It's ridiculous...anw, May Allah(swt) guide this generation...Anyway,there is no point in talking in circles... if you don't make your intentions clear,it will get you no where and she might feel very uncomfortable talking to you,wondering what in the world you want from her(lol). letting her know will put her at mind at ease, although there's a strong chance she will be shy, therefore, like I said, preferably, approach her brother, friend, even her friend's brother...that's the best way to go.
Here are a few do's and don'ts...
- Do NOT appear arrogant, but DO NOT shy away from expressing your opinion on matters discussed
-Do not complement her innapropriately, and show her that you have knowledge of Islam(big :thumbs_up )
- If she's shy, do not bombard her with questions, yet appear confident, modest and interested(she will slowly open up, which I guess is a "form" of confidence)..
Confidence takes time(you'd really have to have a real relationship with a woman,i.e engagement/marriage to have her full trust) but respect can definetly be earned early on if you behave properly.
eehh..Hope that helped! Good luck!