A Conversational Trick That I Promised Myself I’d Practice More Often

If you are lucky enough to be in the company of a successful businessman, don’t waste his precious time — and yours — chitchatting about baseball.

This is a rare opportunity that should be treasured. So take advantage of it. Ask good questions, such as:

• What was your biggest business challenge this year?
• What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?
• Have you met any interesting people?

If you do, this is what will happen:

First, you will be surprised at how forthcoming he will be. (Most successful people are.)

Second, you will be astonished by how much you learn. People will tell you the most amazing things if you let them. You might even hear their most valuable secrets.