OK , I have a question about 'question askers' (in real life, not on here)?

Question

You know those really nice and friendly people. Those ones who seem to be so facinated with you (hey, I am pretty amazing, lol). They are so friendly and ask questions about how you like something, or why you did something. Sometimes one question. Sometimes mulitple questions. It is nosy, but you dont' realize until you walk away that you felt compelled to show more of yourself than you wanted to. How do you get of these questions? Without being rude (the friendly, nice, question askers have good intentions... to be friendly, to take an interest). Is there ONE pat answer to give to all questions without being confrontational. A nice way to be slippery and slide out of these questions. My 7 year old says to say 'I don't know' to all questions.. but as an adult, people know that is a lie. To say 'that is personal' makes that person feel bad when they are wanting to be friendly. Helpful hints??? I need a good hint. I live in a VERY friendly town and am new here.

Answer 1

Say, it's a long story, if that doesn't work, just smile and nod,,, that's what I do.lol

Answer 2

If you are new and people are just trying to be friendly I wouldn't be offended so quickly. The usual way people get to know each other is to ask questions about where you came from, what made you move, your jobs, kids and how many, etc. This is just normal conversation and I don't consider that nosy or too personal. If they are already delving into your religion or politics I would consider that going too far. If they are asking how many times you've been married or are you that would be going too far. But normal people being friendly don't usually do that. Sounds like you have relocated to a smaller town. Having grown up in one, I know that everyone knows everyone and what goes on. It can be a great thing and it can be a nuisance at the same time. Try to find a common ground to fit in with the friendly people or you could find life difficult in your new surroundings.

Answer 3

Just answer simply and honestly. If it's a small town, you are definitely meeting all the nosy people and after awhile (even being as amazing as you are) the interest will fade. But you don't want "everyone" to think you are mean or rude, so be nice.

Answer 4

For less sensitive topics, give short answers that don't lead naturally to more questions. If the topic is really personal, like your religion or political beliefs, say "I'd rather not talk about that". And don't assume that you'll make them feel bad. If they really do have good intentions, they will want to know what your boundaries are.

Answer 5

You could try evasion and lies, listening to politicians answer questions can be very helpful there. Bluntly telling people that it is none of their business seldom works as the people who ask such questions will either take offense or they won't believe you mean it. I usually prefer answering personal questions, the vast majority of the people who ask will never remember the answers for more than a hour anyway.

Answer 6

i wonder what questions you are hesitant to answer and why most people don't just get to the personal stuff but if you are scared to answer these questions then why not answer there question with a question similar let them do the talking since they obviously have no problems sharing example how long have you lived here not long a while..... you.... don't say much and get them to do the talking good luck i know my husband is a expert at this

Answer 7

Gee, where do you live, I might move there. I live in southern California and most of the time no one ever talks to me, it's like I'm invisible.

Answer 8

I'm glad newfie asked this question and I'll be following up on this one. It's amazing how some people don't even hesitate to ask super personal questions. Thanks newfie!