Have you ever been made uncomfortable during a conversation by someone who was asking too many intrusive questions? Or have you made someone uncomfortable? What are the questions that you didn't know were rude to ask...
There are so many questions that are too intrusive and a covert way of asking something else indirectly.
1. What do you do?
This question seems innocent but asking it directly comes across intrusive and putting someone on a spot. It comes across you are asking how wealthy are you, how much money do you have? Some people are just wealthy and don't do anything and others just lost their job. It is not something they would want to discuss unless you are a close friend already, definitely not with a stranger. It is better never to ask and wait for the person to mention it themselves.
2. Do you live alone?
Another question that is a bit uncomfortable , are you trying to invite yourself? Or asking if someone can afford to live by themselves. Another variation of this is - how can you afford to live here? or , oh you live in a wealthy area?
3. How much is your : rent, mortgage, watch, handbag ?
Anything asking how much something is is very rude to ask unless you are a long term friend but as a stranger is a big no-no. You would be surprised how often people ask those questions.
4. Is this real? ( watch, bag, face, body parts)
You can't possibly ask people if their watch or body parts are real, please stop. That's very rude and even abusive if you are asking about their body. It is none of your business. Next level- how much was your watch/ surgery. Just no! Another variation of this horror is when someone is grabbing the said thing , watch, handbag, jewellery and starts the interrogation. Yes, it happens.
5. Where are you from?
If someone is clearly not from where you are from you can simply wait until they mention the place of their origins otherwise by asking it directly can come across as threatening and not welcoming.
What to do ask instead?
Be genuine and encouraging and try to get to know the person naturally rather than trying to extract too many information too soon.
London etiquette
London life
what not to ask
rude questions
manners
Comments
Post a Comment