Sublime

Don’t be afraid of looking dumb or saying the wrong thing. Laughing at yourself is the best way to develop a sense of humor (if you don’t already have one) and, at the same time, make people feel less threatened by you.

Facial expressions, head nods, and positive body language are clear ways of expressing interest in your conversation partner’s words.

Social: Ask for Referrals • I’d like to find someone who’s interested in hiking or who has info on hiking groups. Do you know whether anyone here can help me? • Do you know anyone here who’s also new to this area? • I’m going to look for someone interested in volunteer activities. • Who do you know that might enjoy watching the New York Giants game

Notice that I didn’t make excuses for my leaving. I didn’t say I had to call the babysitter or that I needed to return a page. That well-known adage “honesty is the best policy” is really true. It’s important to retain your poise and state your reason for departing courteously. Even if you

Fear of rejection keeps many of us from risking conversation,

They promote internal networking.

Always begin and end your business conversation with small talk to humanize the relationship.