Why do some people think it's ok to ask how much money I make?

the next time somebody asks you something that personal just look them dead in the eye and say "Why do you ask?" They'll say something like....just curious etc.... then you simply say "Oh." Don't say anything else. If they ask again give them the same why do you ask. After a couple of times they'll get the idea that you aren't going to answer. Or you could look at them all shocked and say "Why on earth would you want to know something so personal and private?!?" That usually shuts people up and lets them know how rude and inappropriate their question was. Hope this helps.

It's a rude question that I never answer. I'm a college student who works part-time, too. I experience the same. I don't think people working in more professional (i.e. more training, education required) jobs get that. I would never ask that to a doctor, professor, or engineer. Hopefully, its just because you're young.

that is a rude question

People are just nosey. And no, it won't stop. Last Christmas I overheard a distant relative ask my uncle how much he makes. My uncle's a grown man w/ two grown children. And for some odd reason, my uncle told him how much he makes! People will also ask how much you paid for your home, your car and anything else. My best advice is to have a cute response ready. I always say, "He does well" when people ask my how much my hubby makes. They get the point. Best wishes!

It will continue to happen throughout your life, doesn't stop at college. These are the same people out there who are asking "when's the baby due?" and you're not pregnant.....its just a lack of thinking. They're probably not trying to be rude, they are just not thinking their questions through enough. Whenever I've been asked this question I give a very vague answer. "Oh they pay well" Or if you're super direct you could always just say "Oh I prefer not to discuss my finances."

Answer their question with a smile by saying; I'll forgive you for asking if you'll forgive me for not answering." These people klnow they're crossing a line.

Not everybody would consider this rude. Obviously you do, but a lot of people have a more casual view of money and work and have no problems discussing money. I don't work now, but the few times I did and people asked me (I'm in college full time, I don't work while attending). It has nothing to do with age. People get asked regardless of age or time in school/college. It could be that people are just curious, or are interested in that field, or whatever. I'm sure doctors get asked all the time (and are probably used to it) about their income because of the perceived idea that doctors make tons of money. Many are interested (or at least curious) about that field and want to know. I know you used that as an example, and I'm just trying to answer that. This is a question of your personal etiquette...do you find the questions themselves rude, or do you think people are trying to violate your privacy? Personally, I don't think it has anything to do with being nosy, it is all just out of curiosity.

Laugh and say something like "I'm in college--so never enough." It's rude to ask, but you can't tell customers that. But you can not answer without being a jerk. When people ask really rude questions, I like to say "why do you ask?" in a sweet voice. Shuts 'em right up. But yes, it is a question they probably don't ask doctors or whomever. If you look young, they may be surprised that you have such a responsible job and are acting out that surprise. But it won't get better, I'm afraid. You have "when are you getting married?" "are you thinking about children yet?" "how much was your house?" and so forth to look forward to.

People will ask all sorts of things from how much you make to questions about your home and relationships, etc. Sometimes they are being nosey, sometimes they are truly interested in your life. (Maybe they want their son to get a job at the bank and they are curious about the pay.) Also, people are brought up with different ideas of what is and is not polite to ask someone. What's important is how YOU feel when asked that question. You can't keep them from asking but you definitely don't have to answer. A simple "I do fine for myself, thank you" should give smart ones the hint. Almost any question can be answered with a gracious "I'd rather not say, thank you."