Proper timing is crucial to executing a successful pickup: If you jump in too quickly, you’ll come across as desperate and needy; hang back and dillydally around, and another guy will walk over and start his game.

When another guy comes in and crowds your play, you’ll likely become frustrated and irritated. Have no fear though, there is a last-ditch effort you can employ if you really don't want to give up and find another target: You can become the cockblocker.

Cockblocking another guy during his pickup is unpleasant, but it is something that must be done from time to time. Regardless of the reason, there are elements of the “guy code” that have to followed, even in this nefarious business. Just keep the following things in mind: Don't do this to a friend (as if you'd even consider it), don't badmouth your rival when he's not around (that's something chicks do), and don't moan about it if someone pulls some of these tricks on you.

Before we get started on cockblocking, remember that the goal here is the pickup, not the competition. Pay attention to your female target with some flirting and conversation as you politely, without being a jerk, give your adversary the cockblock. He'll know what you're trying to pull -- let him hang himself as he tries to retaliate due to his jealousy and paranoia. Those points now out of the way, here are five great ways to cockblock your competition.

Admit it
They say fortune favors the bold, so if you’re accused of cockblocking, straight up admit to it and make light of the situation. Try to keep it light and nonconfrontational. The best way to blow it with the girl is to walk up and insult the guy, plus you’ll likely find trouble in the parking lot afterwards. If you can temper the cockblock situation with humor, do so. Buy a round of drinks: a Cosmo for her and a glass of milk for him. Or, as juvenile as it seems, make a bar bet (one you know you'll win) and the victor gets to stay with the girl.

This is a high-risk strategy that pays well if you’re successful. You will either fail or succeed very quickly. If the girl doesn't tell you to beat it, a victorious outcome is probably on deck.

Send in a wingman
The direct cockblock approach might not suit everyone. Using a wingman to distract the rival might be an easier and more subtle method for the faint of heart. Entering the battlefield with a wingman effectively eliminates the other guy from the equation and leaves you free to engage your target.

During the cockblock, a good wingman should be able to keep 100% of the guy’s attention. This is because your brother in arms knows that he doesn't need to impress the girl, and the rival won't want to cause a scene and ruin his chances with the girl. At the very least, talk of sports, cars, work or other women will draw him away from the girl and into a genuine conversation. A best-case scenario will see your rival being taken off for a game of pool, which will hopefully uncover some unattractive personality traits, such as an aggressive competitive streak.

You’ll have to repay the cockblock favor to your wingman, but if he is worth his cred, he’ll likely find a date for himself and his new ”buddy.”

Send in a wingwoman
In these times of equality, take advantage of the wingwoman. With a hot female friend who is willing to step up as your cockblocker, the following methods can be most devastating to your rival’s efforts.

Cockblock your rival with a flashmob and get him to dig his own grave…

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