Index of

Th en I turn to my work or book. When the drink or snack order is
taken, that’s round two. I am pleasant and may make a remark or two.
If they are enthusiastically responding, I generally let it go on for a few
minutes, then sigh and select from the following:
■ Unfortunately, I have tons of work to do!
■ I’m going to go back to my book now, excuse me.
■ I really need a nap before landing.
■ It’s been nice talking with you!
Be fi rm and friendly. A short sentence to let them know it’s not
about them.
From time to time, you will fi nd yourself sincerely wanting the
conversation to continue—because you believe there is real potential
for a continued relationship or you just sense a spontaneous connection.
In either case, as long as you perceive mutual interest, enjoy
the conversation. Th en follow up with a friendly email or text within
twenty-four hours.
Prepare yourself for the occasional challenge. Recently I off ered an
extrovert my newspaper, only to be subjected to a play-by-play of his
hectic travel and travails over the past four months. (I never said this
was going to be easy.) I mustered an empathetic smile, congratulated
him on his tenacity, and moved on to my selection from the previous
four all-purpose bullets. He promptly turned to the person across the
aisle for a seamless conversation substitute.
Upon descent, if you have interest in further networking, re-emerge
to off er your card and wish your new connection well. It goes without
saying you always have your cards everywhere you go. Th ere is limited
time remaining to converse and the fl ight concludes on a friendly
note. Ta-dah! A formula for fl ying.
BUSINESS TRAVEL 121