Dear Queenie,
There’s someone I work with who is always willing to talk and talk and talk about themself when you ask how they are or how their family is or what they did over the weekend, or whatever, but never once bothers to ask you how you are, or whatever.
Queenie, I find this rude. What do you think?—Conversation Etty Ket
Dear Etty Ket,
I agree. But the solution seems obvious – do not ask this person anything about themself. Instead, ask them, “Would you like to hear how I am?” or “… what I did last weekend?” If they say “yes” (which I doubt will happen) feel free to give them a dose of their own medicine (although I doubt they will get the message).
