DEAR ABBY: During professional meetings or events, people I work with ask me if I'm married or seeing anyone. Since these are not friends, but rather professional associates, I don't feel this question is appropriate. I would never think to ask someone such a personal question.
What is an appropriate response to these individuals that conveys it's none of their business without coming across as rude? -- STRICTLY BUSINESS IN D.C.
DEAR STRICTLY BUSINESS: The people who are asking you that question are probably just trying to be friendly or to get to know you better. However, since you prefer not to answer the question directly, reply, "When I know you better, perhaps we can discuss it," and change the subject.