1. Please, no. That's immature and demeaning. It makes you look like a fool.
2. Why would I waste my time with a guy who seems like he doesn't care about me? I've had two guys in my life pull that type of stuff and I immediately started looking elsewhere. If you make it clear you're not into me (or insult my intelligence by playing that game) I'm sure as heck not going to waste my time. There are tons of other guys who are secure enough to express their interest.
Sounds like someone's been reading too many PUA websites.
These "rules" all depend on the kind of girl you are wanting to attract. If you are trying for a half-witted, easily led girl to pump and dump, sure. If you are looking for a relationship with a girl who has actual smarts, we can smell these "power plays" from a mile away and it's rather unattractive. If you want the former - hey, go for it. Different strokes for different folks. But don't expect anything serious to come from it.
I even remember one guy who tried to "neg" me (one of the guys who also pulled the "I'm going to pretend I'm not interested and in control" card). It was ******* hilarious. Needless to say, he didn't get a second date
You're on target with the improving yourself, though. Self-confidence is SO important in dating. Not to the point of being a jerk (which a lot of guys don't get) but enough so that you seem comfortable with yourself.