Money manners: Questions about money

Questions about our income, wealth or debt push the boundaries of good manners, but don’t feel you have to answer. Unless you’re hoping for a spot on Oprah or the Jerry Springer Show, a tell-all approach isn’t essential when friends or colleagues ask personal money questions. However it’s also not necessary to be rude in return. A few simple strategies can let it be known that you regard the topic as out of bounds without causing harm to the friendship. For starters you could just pretend you didn’t hear the question. If that doesn’t work, change the subject in such an obvious way it becomes clear you have no intention of providing an answer. For example, if you’re asked “Did the boss pay you a bonus this year?” try changing direction with “Who do you think will win the footy this weekend?” Humour is always a useful tool to deflect an unwanted question. If you’re asked “What’s your salary package worth?” try “The boss thinks it’s far too much and I reckon it’s far too little”. If you’re asked pointed questions like how much is owing on your mortgage, try responding with “I’ve purposely forgotten!”

Above all, don’t be bullied. No matter how you respond, chances are the answer will raise even more questions (“You paid that much for your house? How do you afford the repayments?”). Give away nothing and it’s almost impossible to offend and the issue’s put to rest.

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