I imagine that most of us have worn our fair share of those stick-on name badges found at every convention, trade show, and special event. I can’t – and won’t – begin to count how many have graced my lapels over the years. It wasn’t until the The Wall Street Journal ran a […]
The Fine Art of Small Talk
Debra Fine Small Talks With The Capital Grille
I find the articles by Meta Wagner for The Capital Grille delicious – for lack of a better word. Is there a better word than delicious? Probably not. Either way, The Capital Grille was savvy enough to put together a series of articles that centers around dining; without limiting the discussion to only food and […]
And Here’s To You, Mrs. Robinson…What to Say (And Not Say) to the Graduate
“Your families are extremely proud of you. You can’t imagine the sense of relief they are experiencing. This would be a most opportune time to ask for money.” ~Gary Bolding ‘Tis the season of graduation parties. And what a season it is. Graduation parties are a perfect time for food, drink, singing, dancing, and lots […]
How to Find A Small Talk Escape Route
National Etiquette Week is almost over! Pretty soon we can go back to our regularly scheduled rude, offensive behavior. I am kidding – of course. I believe that the bulk of the world has the best intentions when it comes to being polite. But even the best intentions get off course now and again. […]
How To Get Through Small Talk at A Funeral Without Wanting to Die
The famous Dr. Joyce Brothers recently passed away, and her death caused me to ask myself, “How would Dr. Joyce Brothers conduct herself at a funeral?” She was, after all, one of the leaders in savvy speak. Death is a part of life, but attending funerals can be tough even for the most gifted small talkers. […]
Hi, My Name Is ?
Dear Debra: I have read your book “The Fine Art of Small Talk” and have been privy to two of your programs. I’ve learned a lot, especially the importance of using someone’s name when conversing. I recently spent a lovely ten minutes on the phone with a gentleman named Kevin. I was in the […]
