The Fine Art of Small Talk: How To Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!

"I think this book is helpful, but too narrow in its focus. I think it could be seriously expanded on to include family and friends too, not just business social situations which seems to be the focus.
The type is set wide so they could fill pages on this one. Still a good start on the subject, but I would try something else if I was only to buy one book on the subject."
~ Written on 2008-11-22

"I got Debra's book on CD. She talks about very basic stuff for a long time in a very boring way. In addition, she is not a good speaker. In fact she sounds like a very poor actress. I don't recommend that CD unless you are looking for a very basic stuff such as how to introduce yourself. If I could return it, I would do it. "
~ Written on 2008-08-14

"I periodically teach a course for newly-hired and largely inexperienced application software consultants, "Soft Skills." This book with its imparted wisdoms from a person who climbed the ladder so to speak and its practical, checklist approach is one of the best I have read. I recommend it to my classes.
It is probably worthwhile for persons interested in effective human-to-human communication to also consider that knowledge of non-verbal communication and an ability to handle contentious issues are also key elements. Adding these to this fine book would make it less accessible so I recommend that persons who seek competence in this area explore these other topics as well.
"
~ Written on 2008-05-27

"it is good book. Nothing special. From rank of 5 I would put 3. A little bit boring and very ordinary. Won't worse reading if you are working with sharp partners and need to be different and better than ordinary joe."
~ Written on 2008-04-06

"Based on some of the 4 and 5 stars reviews here I approached this book with excitement and high expectations only to be let down - hard.

The author states that her background is in Engineering and, frankly, I'm not surprised. The "problem" of small talk and conversation is treated like an engineering project rather than the fine art that it truly is (regardless the title). If you're an engineer (like I am) you might be tempted to believe that the litany of manipulative formulas presented here actually make sense and will work. And, I'm sure that they do - with OTHER socially challenged engineers (and others who are socially awkward). So, it's hardly surprising that the Author's client list is filled with companies with a strong engineering culture!

However, in the rest of the real world they're finding out that what is truly effective when it comes to relationships and conversations is "Social IQ". So, therefore, in leiu of this book I would recommend any of the following:

Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships

Social Intelligence: The New Science of Success

AND that is what is sorely (I would even say conspicuously) missing from this book. Without Social IQ the techniques outlined here are not only ineffective they could be downright irritating to "normies". (and, speaking as an engineer, I would be hard pressed to call most engineers "normal" when it comes to social matters)

However, if you develop Social IQ the techniques that are presented in this book would actually be quite effective - powerful in fact. So this reviewer's consumer advice would be, get this book AFTER you've developed (or refined) your Social IQ skills. Then you will have the essential skills required to be a superb conversationalist and friend!

This may sound daunting (it was for me) but, believe it or not it really isn't and you probably have all that you need lying latent inside you! Social IQ -- that's the key NOT JUST the words and approach that you use. "
~ Written on 2008-03-15