Non-verbal communication
A friend of mine found this link on unspoken communication. It basically covers how to use nonverbal communication in the office to get your message across. I was surprised just how much of it I already use.
http://www.slackermanager.com/slacker_manager/2005/03/the_unspoken_la.html
Be sure and read the comments for a good laugh. Like this one:
Another one that works is deliberately referring to them by the wrong name. Suddenly, "John" becomes "Mustafa".
Another one: ask a totally random question out of thin air. If they're complaining about lack of resources for their project, ask them if they think Annika Sorenstam will win the PGA this year. Or if Bounce is better than Downey fabric softener. If done seriously and with earnestness, your reputation for kookiness will explode.