This. This so much. You took the words right outta my mouth.
If I could add one thing, it's this: Make your intentions known from the get-go. If you want a relationship, and you know you want a relationship, make it clear. Simply asking someone out on a date is enough. Maybe you'll get rejected right away, but you're far more likely to spark a romance if you start your interaction with another human being on the pretense of romance. Then just be yourself after that. No game, no bull. And like Helios said, don't fear the rejection! If one person doesn't like you for you, there are literally thousands upon thousands of people you will meet in your lifetime who will.