How do I get a bitcoin from a buyer?

As a cryptocurrency enthusiast and investor, I'm curious about the process of acquiring bitcoins from a buyer. Could you elaborate on the steps involved in this transaction? Specifically, I'm interested in understanding the setup of a secure exchange, identifying a trusted buyer, agreeing on terms of the transaction, executing the exchange securely, and finally confirming the receipt of the bitcoins. Additionally, are there any specific platforms or services you would recommend for this process? I'm looking for a comprehensive yet concise explanation of the entire bitcoin acquisition flow from a buyer's perspective.