It’s the time of the year again, where we will meet (in person or this year, virtually) with our relatives. The Chinese New Year was all fun until the dreaded interrogation rounds by relatives.
1) “How did you do in school?”
This was so common that it seemed like a conversation opener. Some relatives meant well when they asked this question. However, some relatives pressed to know our grades (and our cousins) and started a ranking race. To prevent things from getting complexed, just answer with the standard “I’m doing ok, thank you”. If the relations continue to ask for more details, just pretend to be too engrossed in some other conversations, food or TV show.
2) “What’s your job?”
To prevent talking too much about your job just say which field you are working in like marketing/F&B/finance/lab etc and leave it there. When they ask for details, just talk about the economy and the shares market. It will definitely lead them to the next conversation topic.
3) “Why are you jobless?”
The economic environment is deteriorating due to the pandemic so one might happen to be switching jobs or being out of the work for the moment.
However, we always have a job on stand-by which is our family. So, the answers can range from spending some quality time with parents to thank them for all the hard work and sacrifices thus far or taking care of your child during the pandemic lockdown period. Thus, you’ll go from jobless to the filial child or caring parent.
4) “How much is your salary?”
This question bound to appear among adults. The best way is to direct to the recent craze in stock markets like the semiconductor race or the glove stock spike last year. Don’t need to mention your stake (or lack of thereof) just throw a few topics as a decoy. Just nod attentively when your uncles start to brag about the stock market gurus they follow on Facebook.
5) “When are you getting married?”
This question is less thorny and could always be avoided using humorous replies.
Some samples:
"So, I can continue receiving hongbao from you!" (and put up your best innocent smile)
“Who do you have in mind for me?”
“I don’t know, what do you think?”
6) “Why haven't you approved me on Facebook/Instagram/WeChat(insert other social media platform here)?”
Just tai chi the question away by saying you are on social media break now or generic “I don’t use Facebook anymore lah”.
In short, although some of the questions may be uncomfortable, at the end of the day, these relatives are still part of the family. Maintain a sense of humor and think like a politician when answering the questions. Practice the art of deflection this Chinese New Year.
