We’ve all been there: you’re stuck in a cycle of the same predictable responses to the same predictable questions. “How are you?” gets answered with “Good, thanks,” and you’re off to the next one, never really stopping to think about what that exchange really means. But what if we told you that the most ordinary questions could lead to extraordinary conversations if we only find unconventional ways to answer them? At Morris Agency, we’re all about pushing boundaries, and this applies not just to marketing, but to the way we engage with the world.
Let’s take a look at how to spice up the most common questions you hear every day because sometimes, all it takes is one unconventional response to completely change the direction of a conversation.
“How Are You?”
Conventional Answer: "Good, thanks!"
Unconventional Answer: “I’m doing alright, just trying to find a moment to breathe between everything. How are you?”
Let's be honest, no one truly answers this question with “good.” How could we? Life is more complex than that. Instead of sticking to the safe, predictable answer, why not infuse a little personality into it? Maybe you’re a little tired, or maybe you’re excited about something. Giving an authentic answer doesn’t just break the monotony, it invites the other person to share a deeper, more genuine part of themselves.
“What Do You Do?”
Conventional Answer: “I’m a marketing manager.”
Unconventional Answer: “I’m like a traffic director for attention: getting people to stop scrolling and start engaging.”
Instead of spitting out your job title like a robot, why not share what you actually do in a fun, engaging way? A job title doesn’t do justice to the unique things you contribute every day. So, reframe it in a way that lets people know who you are in a more creative, approachable manner. It’s a great way to spark curiosity and give people a chance to connect with you beyond your role.
“How Was Your Weekend?”
Conventional Answer: “It was fine, thanks.”
Unconventional Answer: “It was productive and I cleaned out my garage, but I also binge watched a whole season of a new show on Netflix. What about yours?”
Weekends are sacred, and why not talk about them in a way that makes them sound a little more fun and authentic? Instead of simply saying, “It was fine,” why not paint a picture of your weekend in a way that feels real? Add some personality and let people know that, yes, you might have done nothing, but it was perfectly enjoyable in its own way.
“What Do You Like To Do For Fun?”
Conventional Answer: “I like to read.”
Unconventional Answer: “I enjoy getting lost in new stories, whether it’s through movies, books, or convincing my friends to try obscure hobbies like pottery. What about you?”
Instead of playing it safe, take the opportunity to showcase the unusual hobbies or offbeat things you love. It gives the conversation a unique twist and might even inspire someone else to share a passion of their own. Who knows, you might even bond over something unexpected!
Why Unconventional Answers Matter
So, what’s the point of all this? Why should we take the time to offer unconventional answers to conventional questions? Well, for starters, it’s because conversations can go so much deeper when we step away from the predictable responses. Every time we break the mold, we invite more interesting, more authentic connections. And let’s not forget, it’s fun! Engaging with others in unexpected ways can bring a fresh perspective to even the most mundane exchanges.
At Morris, we encourage creativity in everything we do, whether it’s crafting marketing strategies or engaging in everyday interactions. When we stop sticking to the same old scripts, we create opportunities for real, meaningful conversations that go beyond the surface.
So, next time someone asks you, “How are you?” try answering in a way that’s unexpected and playful. You never know, you might just spark a conversation that takes you somewhere interesting.