Airplane Talk?

No First Class today! I am lucky to be on an airplane considering the tumult that the airlines have caused now that they have been chastened to maintain their planes to FAA regulations. American Airlines cancelled 1000 flights today and on top of that the weather in the middle of the U.S. was lousy. So although grateful to be on a flight to Baltimore to present for Heery International tomorrow I am sure to be missing networking opportunities.
Keith Ferrazzi author of Never Eat Alone and the master of networking would be sorely disappointed. He built a financial practice by purchasing his own upgrades for First Class when he worked for Deloitte many years ago. Eventually Deloitte reimbursed him for the cost once they discovered how many new relationships were developed and how much business Keith booked with his fellow seat mates in First Class. Keith’s number one suggestion for starting a conversation in First Class? During the meal, when your seat buddy is probably bored and more open to conversation.
What is your best tip for airplane conversation? Or are you more interested in how to end those airplane conversations?

April Fool's

It is possible that my third book might take flight from the following:

Maybe you know someone (besides me) that needs this class?
Appearing on this months back cover of the Colorado Free University catalogue (or as it is labeled in honor of April Fools': Colorado Expensive University):
The Fine Art of Shutting UpDo you find yourself getting off the elevator at the wrong floor because you can’t stop talking to someone you met on the way up? Do you avoid libraries and the ballet because the sound of “Shhh!” drives you crazy? Does the song Sounds of Silence by Simon and Garfunkel make your skin crawl? Do you have nightmares about Trappist monks who serenely observe their vow of silence? This workshop will help you overcome your fear of peace and quiet as you learn how to take a full breath of air into your lungs, talk without food in your mouth, tell a story that actually has a beginning and an ending, give “yes” and “no” answers, engage in conversation without people fleeing your presence, and actually hear what other people say. Debra Fine is a best selling author and internationally recognized keynote speaker who has had her own struggles with shutting up. $149 Non-Member $154 Member Discounts given for early graduationCENTRAL DENVER: Colorado Legislature General Assembly8623X: Every Tues. (until you shut up), 6-9 p.m. Begins 4/1

Welcome to the fine art of conversation

If it were not for the last minute I would never get things done. Finally I have implemented my blog, and although it feels like the last minute, my guess is that in 5 years I won’t feel like the caboose in the world of blogging. It is about time however that I get chatting on the Internet as I have been doing plenty of it out in this wonderful world of ours. Let me know if I can provide you with answers to your questions about networking skills, developing rapport with clients or colleagues, mingling at parties or tips for job interviews or making presentations. I am all about Big and Small conversations and look forward to hearing from you. In the meantime look for regular postings about icebreaker tips and starting conversations, exit lines, mastering introductions, remembering names, hosting parties, listening skills and avoiding conversation killers!
Until then…on to my next “last minute” task.