TOP DRAWER BOOK REVIEW
by
HL Carpenter
The Art of Civilized Conversation
by Margaret Shepherd
ISBN 0-7679-2169-0
228 pages; hardcover; $16.00
Broadway Books, New York, 2005
“Flee not from conversation,” Ovid said, in The Art of Love, written in 1 BCE. Is that your motto? Or do you dash off e-mails, multi-task while listening with half an ear and engage in wave-and-grin greetings with co-workers and employees? In other words, are you fleeing from conversation without actually running?
Of course, the modern world is a bit different from Ovid’s time. It may seem the only way to get through your busy day is by avoiding conversation. But author Margaret Shepherd says a civilized conversation doesn’t have to be synonymous with a long, newsy chat. Even a brief connection can leave you – and the other party – refreshed.
Still think taking time to talk sounds like a quaint idea from a by-gone era? Consider this: Practicing conversational skills regularly means you’ll be more at ease in casual work-related situations, such as the Christmas party at the boss’s house.
If you’ve been running so long you’ve forgotten how to converse, The Art of Civilized Conversation offers tips and suggestions. Once you discover how a little friendly talk can enrich your busy day – and possibly your career - you may choose to stick around.
Review originally published September 2006.
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HL Carpenter, an experienced investor and a CPA, specializes in reader friendly financial and tax topics for individuals and small businesses, and publishes Top Drawer Ink, a newsletter that's chock full of humor and common sense information.
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Last update: January 1, 2010
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