3.24.2001
I don't see the point of trying to have a conversation with someone if you are walking in opposite directions. Usually (being the shy fellow that I am), I wait to see if the person makes eye contact with me. If said person eye connects, I will respond with a head nod.

Timing is an important issue when executing this manuever. It is generally OK if both parties nod simultaeneously; it looks as though you are complementing and reciprocating the gesture. However, great care must be taken to ensure that the nods aren't in the same direction. If the other person beats you to the nod, you have time to switch it up. Two downward nods looks silly, but more depressing than anything. The double up-nod is much worse because you look like baby birds stretching for worms.

You cannot respond to a hand wave with a nod. It will look like you don't give a crap about returning the gesture. However, getting (or giving) a wave, or better yet, a vocal greeting in response to a lesser gesture has the opposite effect. People like to think that you are really excited to see them. Which leads into the complicated territory of drive-by conversations...

First rule: Don't try to have the last word in a drive-by convo with a sorority girl. She will always win. This breed has tons of experience with vacuous remarks in passing and they are ready for pretty much anything. They hit you early with a bright "How are you?!?" If you are smart, you can put yourself out of misery and not ask a question in return. "Great!" or "Fine.." will suffice; you will keep your dignity. Otherwise, prepare to be left sputtering "wussup?" on the sidewalk.

Second rule: If you expect a response from your greeting start early. Fifteen feet is good in a low-traffic area. Avoid extended confrontations if there are lots of fast moving people around. By the time you meet each other, the exchange should be over. Otherwise, you will have to keep walk-talking in a difficult backwards move. Some people can pull this off, but most fail miserably. Sidewalk suicide for both of you.

Third rule: Don't get the misconception that people actually care what you say. This will lead you in the deadly "People like me" trap. We would want you thinking that would we?

Fouth rule: When in doubt, pull it out! When properly executed, this move cannot be countered, except by the most skillful and deft sorority girls.

Wow...this was just supposed to be a few lines. It kinda blew up as I was writing it. To be continued...
link to this post   1:55 PM by Trey | (0)

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