[orangethirty]

As good as his sounds, it might put you in a serious disadvantage during negotiations. Only use this if you are dealing with a very specific personality type known as a nurturer (someone who values personl connections and nurtures them from the start). Otherwise you might not be tken seriously.

[tawgx]

Interesting - My understanding of these was that by using this kind of open communication you'll be able to get(most) people to open up and tell you more about what they do, which might help as you as you make your way into an organization. When/how do you think this can put you in bad spot during negotiations?

[orangethirty]

It will mostly get you deceived. People are rarely open in such way, unless they are of a certain personality type. Being open like this is really the worst thing you can do in the rel business world. Now, I'm not saying you shoe not be honest, but you should definitely plan ahead nd strategize before any meeting.

Though there is one shortcut to getting people to opening their mouths ( and thus give you an advamtge). Find a pain or a pleasure. They will regularly not shut up. But be very careful. Asking directly is not ideal. Make some research beforehand.