Seatmate pet peeve....

I usually open a book/magazine or try to look like I need to do some work. If all else fails, don the headphones and (pretend to) watch the video - should I be so lucky as to have airline-provided IFE on the flight. And no, loquacious seatmates do NOT count as IFE, lol.

I have had a few interesting seatmates. Twice in a month, I was offered job interviews based solely on the fact that I am a consultant with one of the major players in our industry. Go figure. Another time, I chatted it up with a rookie consultant at McKinsey who must have been very bright to get that job, but didn't seem it. Two weeks ago was the woman who talked to the movie and applauded at the end of the film. Yeesh...

One word: Headphones. These usually are the biggest clue I give. I stick them on, heck, they don't have to know I'm not listening to music. Using the pillow and blanket and closing your eyes usually works pretty well, too. Oh, and eyeshades. Last but not least, ear plugs!!!

"no speak English" 🙂

I don't generally mind some small talk when on the plane, but I do not like being peppered with personal quesions by someone whom I have been acquainted with for a few minutes. This is something I consider quite verboten.

I'm the same way. I say hello and leave it at that.

I remember once being trapped on a Southwest flight in seats that faced each other. A gentleman sits down, looks at the other three of us and says, "Well, we're all gonna be friends by the time this flight's over!" Ugh.