The following is excerpted from the book "Hey, That's MY Porcupine!" and Other Great Conversation Starters by H. Brodus Finklestein:
As we discussed in the previous chapter, eye contact is a major part of a great introduction and is as important as a good opening phrase. But, like any combination, it's important that the intentional (some would say aggressive) eye contact that I recommend is only used in the right situations.
What follows are several scenarios that require a modification of the H.O.R.A.S.S. (Hand Out Right Away and Stare Strongly) technique explained in chapter 3.
Meeting the Pope. While few of us will have the honor of an audience with the Pope (except for those who gain success after reading this book and my previous tome, Piece of Cake, and 46 Other Single-Serve Business Ideas, who will be more qualified to meet with His Excellency), but for those who do, immediate eye contact might be innapropriate. From what I've read, the Pope prefers to touch his ring to one of yours, in effect, "kissing the rings." Just remember to wear your ring that day.
Meeting CoCo, the gorilla. Unlike humans, animals (even the ones who can do sign language) view direct eye contact and staring as a sign of intimidation and strength. And while CoCo can act gently enough to care for a kitten, she is also strong enough to tear your limb from your body. In this case, I'd also refrain from the first part of the technique (Hand Out Right Away).
Asking for Leniency from a Kidnapper. Desparate men undertake desparate acts. Any kidnapper will, undoubtedly, be in a heightened state and will view a cheery "Think it'll rain tomorrow?" as a threat. While conversation starter #41, "I have a handgun JUST like that!" might seem appropriate here, my law enforcement friends suggest keeping quiet so as not to make yourself a target, especially in large-scale kidnapping scenarios, like the ones you see on cop shows. For standard, waking-up-in-a-strange-trunk kidnappings, the police explorer I consulted suggests making sure the your kidnapper sees you as a human. However, stick to "I'm thirsty. Could I have some water," to impart your humanity, rather than #107, "Sometimes, when I'm alone, I cry because I wasn't breastfed."
Joining a Prison Gang. Yes, the gangleader will seem like an affable fellow (how else did he become the leader?) but prison gangs have their own hierarchy. While conversation starter #9 "What Up, G?" might be adequate, I'd actually suggest a subtler approach. Any gang will have specific needs from their members. Research the group and find out which vital members may have just been paroled, executed or shivved in the bathroom while the guards were busy breaking up another fight. Hopefully, you'll be able to fill the shoes of the missing member, allowing you to utilize starter #112, "My mom told me never to brag, but did you know I can ______________?"
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