Then if you happen to be right, the other person may think that you are trying to be clever at his expense. And if you are wrong, you will feel even more awkward and uncomfortable. As a rule, cultured educated people are most interested in ideas, whereas the average person like to talk about the people he likes and dislikes. This is why these different types frequently find long conversation with each other a strain and a bore. Always listen to the other people so that you gain a shrewd idea of the subjects likely to interest them.
People are full of fascinating surprises.
The man who works with his hands may enjoy discussing a learned subject, whereas the man who looks like a professor may prove to be an authority on the personal and prospects of the local football team. The pretty little flapper may have definite ideas about many things besides clothes, while the domesticated matron might be grateful if you asked after her chrysanthemums. It is a fatal mistake to ask people direct questions about themselves and their work. More often than not, we do this because we are nervous and do not know what to talk about. To some people, making conversation means asking a long string of personal questions.