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Sure. We're not talking real "go to jail" bribery here.
-----Original Message-----
From: techwr-l-bounces+ccardimon=m-s-g -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com [mailto:techwr-l-bounces+ccardimon=m-s-g -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of Dan Goldstein
Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 10:35 AM
To: techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: RE: Tips on how to talk to SMEs
I apologize for jokingly using the word "bribe," and even "barter" is
too strong.
Let me put it this way: Walking in with a plate of cookies is no
different from walking in with a smile and a handshake.
-----Original Message-----
From: Cardimon, Craig
Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 10:22 AM
To: 'Bill Swallow'; Dan Goldstein
Cc: 'techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com'
Subject: RE: Tips on how to talk to SMEs
I'm defending the brownie method. Also snacks and candy. You can still
use cigarettes for bartering at my place.
-----Original Message-----
From: Bill Swallow
Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 10:21 AM
To: Dan Goldstein
Cc: techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: Re: Tips on how to talk to SMEs
I've never used bribes to get work done. Ever. I have certainly brought
in goodies - whether homemade pastries or even homebrew - but never in a
working context. I don't recommend it. I've actually seen and heard
something very similar to the following, and just shook my head.
Writer: "I really need to get 5 minutes of your time."
SME: "What, no cookies?" (turns away)
It's an extreme example, but it happens. You're all there to do a job.
Just get it done. You're all humans, so engage them. Keep the
festivities and goodies as non-project-related surprises, not because
you need something from them, but because you just felt like sharing.
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