Bill Ackman, a billionaire and the founder of Pershing Square Capital Management, has caused some controversy with his relationship advice aimed at the ‘next generation.’ As an ‘older happily married guy,’ Ackman has been with his current wife, Neri Oxman, for six years following his divorce from his first wife, Karen Ann Herskovitz, in 2017.
In a social media post, Ackman expressed concerns that younger people are finding it difficult to meet potential partners in public settings. He suggested the online culture has hindered spontaneous interactions.
“In other words, the online culture has destroyed the ability to spontaneously meet strangers,” Ackman stated. He then shared a four-word approach that he used in his youth: “May I meet you?” He claimed this often led to successful interactions, adding that it ‘inevitably enabled the opportunity for a further conversation.’ Ackman credited the combination of proper grammar and politeness for its effectiveness.
Ackman noted that this line could work for women seeking men as well as for same-sex interactions. Despite his good intentions, the internet reacted with skepticism and humor.
Many users responded with memes and jokes about the phrase ‘may I meet you.’ One user quipped, “Bill Ackman being a dating coach was not on my bingo card for 2025.” Another speculated that the phrase could achieve cult status as an ironic pickup line.
Though Ackman’s advice encourages people to gauge interest before engaging in conversation, the phrase itself left many puzzled. In response to a question about how he met Oxman, Ackman clarified that he did not use the phrase with her. Instead, they were introduced by a college professor and a mutual friend, eventually going on a date when both were single.