Like some folks have already said, I think it's just an easy shorthand (considering the very limited space we have in our notes. ) way to denote someone is receptive to meeting new folks to RP with? At least, that's always been my own interpretation, across MMOs.
As for actually strolling up to strangers? It's definitely on a per-character basis for me. My introverted arcanist isn't likely to approach someone on the street without prompting or cause. (and in her case, likely needs to be approached - but I certainly want people to know that I want to RP, even if the character is reluctant.) My loud-mouthed and gregarious little courier or my super curious and nosy (former) pirate? They have no qualms doing just that!
That said, I will generally toss a /tell to someone first to see if they'd mind if I strolled up. (and I've noticed the same. This really is a polite community!) I don't like intruding on folks that might be busy or otherwise occupied if I see no outward indicators that they're IC.
Actually, that's something that helps clue me in a good deal, in the absense of RP / IC flags. Seeing a few idle emotes - someone flipping through a book, or scanning a crowd, grumbling at a merchant, or maybe even looking for something, is going to pique my interest and make me far more likely to wander on up.
Even if you're super anxious about specifically approaching others (like me!) making it even a little easier for others to approach you can go a long way!
As for actually strolling up to strangers? It's definitely on a per-character basis for me. My introverted arcanist isn't likely to approach someone on the street without prompting or cause. (and in her case, likely needs to be approached - but I certainly want people to know that I want to RP, even if the character is reluctant.) My loud-mouthed and gregarious little courier or my super curious and nosy (former) pirate? They have no qualms doing just that!
That said, I will generally toss a /tell to someone first to see if they'd mind if I strolled up. (and I've noticed the same. This really is a polite community!) I don't like intruding on folks that might be busy or otherwise occupied if I see no outward indicators that they're IC.
Actually, that's something that helps clue me in a good deal, in the absense of RP / IC flags. Seeing a few idle emotes - someone flipping through a book, or scanning a crowd, grumbling at a merchant, or maybe even looking for something, is going to pique my interest and make me far more likely to wander on up.
Even if you're super anxious about specifically approaching others (like me!) making it even a little easier for others to approach you can go a long way!
