Q: My boss asks me probing questions about my husband, kids and home life. While I have nothing to hide, I don’t like discussing these things at work. Help!

A: Some of us readily share the intimate details of our life with the slightest provocation (read: “Hi, how goes it?”), while others prefer to keep their private life, well, private. When it’s your boss who’s digging for personal dish and you who’s the silent type, things can be tricky. She’s probably just being friendly. You want to show you’re collegial. So next time your manager’s queries veer toward home life, keep it short and sweet by saying things are fine, thanks for asking, but you’re the type to keep work and family separate. end the chat on an upswing by saying you’re grateful to know she’s there if you need her. Then move along: “Did you see the email from corporate about the new sales policies?”

Source: Raquel Ferns Lefebvre, a psychologist in South Burlington, VT