The Fine Art of Small Talk, Newly Revised Second Edition

Do you spend an abnormal amount of time hiding out in the bathroom or hanging out at the buffet table at social gatherings? Does the thought of striking up a conversation with a stranger make your stomach do flip-flops? Do you sit nervously through job interviews waiting for the other person to speak? Are you a "Nervous Ned" (or "Nervous Nellie") when it comes to networking? Then it's time you mastered The FINE Art of Small Talk. With practical advice and conversation "cheat sheets," The FINE Art of Small Talk will help you learn to feel more comfortable in any type of social situation, from lunch with the boss to an association event to a cocktail party where you don't know a soul. The Fine Art of Small Talk teaches you to:

Start a conversation even when you think you have nothing to say

Avoid foot-in-mouth disease

Stable your shaky knees and dry your sweaty palms

Prevent pregnant pauses and awkward silences

Adopt listening skills that will make you a better conversationalist

Approach social functions with confidence

Feel more at ease at parties, meetings, job interviews, and trade shows

Turn every conversation into an opportunity for success