companion. If the satellite is in such stellar copany, he or she is probably
also an accomplished person.
Felicia, a friend of mine, is a talented trial lawyer who is maried to a
local TV-show host. Because Tom is on television, peple recognize him
wherever they go, and Felicia gets ignored. Felicia tells me how frustrating
it is, even for Tom. Whenever they go to a party, people gush all over Tom,
and Felicias fascinating work hardly ever gets mentioned. She and Tom
used to love going out to dinner, but now they hide out at home in the
evenings.
How to Talk to a Celebrity 137
Why? Because they cant stand the interruptions of overly effevescent
fans.
I Love What You Used to Be [You Has-Been]
Another sensitivity: the film star is probably obsessed with his last film,
the politician with her last election, a corporate mogul with his last
takeover, an author with her last noveland so forth. So when discussing the
stars, the politicians, the moguls, the authors, or any VIPs work, try to keep
your comments to current or recent work. Telling Woody Allen how much
you loved his 1980 film Stardust Memories would not endear you to him.
What about all my wonderful films since? thinks he. Stick to the present or
very recent past if possible.
A final celebrity codicil: Suppose you are fortunate enough to have one
at your party. To shine some star light on your party, dont ask the TV host to
say a few words. Dont ask the singer
Technique #36
Big Shots Dont Slobber
People who are VIPs in their own right dont slobber over celebrities.
When you are chatting with one, dont compliment her work, simply say
how much pleasure or insight its given you. If you do single out any one of
the stars accomplishments, make sure its a recent one, not a memory thats
getting yellow in her scrapbook.
If the queen bee has a drone sitting with her, find a way to involve him
in the conversation.
to sing a song. What looks effortless to the rest of us because they seem
so comfortable performing is work for them. You wouldnt ask an
accountant guest to look over your books. Or a dentist to check out your
ooja
(Ooja)
#1