Small Talk

100 . the fine art of small talk
THE PERFECT COMPLIMENT
You can compliment someone on a new hairstyle, an
item of clothing, a piece of jewelry, or physical appearance.
However, not all compliments are created equal. A
good compliment acknowledges the object of admiration:
That’s a nice sweater you’re wearing, or What an unusual
tie. An excellent, top-of-the-line compliment goes
beyond that to give conversation material by expounding
on why you like the item. For instance, you might elaborate
on the sweater by saying, I love your sweater. That
shade really enhances the color of your eyes. You can turn your
appreciation of a good-looking tie into a more powerful
compliment by saying, That’s a great tie. Its unusual design
really sets it apart, I always enjoy it when men make fashion
statements with their ties. Beware of complimenting appearance
in the workplace. In many instances it can be
construed as a subtle form of sexual harassment.
Perhaps you are with someone who has no fashion
sense whatsoever, and you have no appreciation for her
taste in clothing, makeup, or accessories. Fear not—you
may do better in complimenting her on a possession
such as her home, an elegant fountain pen, a new car,
even a coffee mug. A good compliment would be: You