Currying the affinity of a new acquaintance by insulting a third party you assume they dislike is a terrible way to build a constructive relationship. I’ve totally done it though.

I’ve learned the lesson. Now, when I meet someone who’s in a hurry to pronounce judgment on someone else, I kind of shut down. How are we going to do good work together if the basis of our connection is the disparaged character and intentions of others?

Tell me who you like instead. I’ll totally return the favor.