Male contractor - smart answer to 'do you have any kids?'

[fishymcfishface]

So I work in a male environment, no issues there. We have recently started working with some contractors - all blokes. Whilst waiting for a meeting to start one of them asks me, out of the blue, 'do you have any kids?' which I suspect was a lazy attempt on his part at small talk. I don't (have kids) but it irks me that he asks me that question (complete with slight head tilt and simpering smile) and not my male colleagues.

Any suggestions of a deflective answer which does not completely insult the vendor (I have loads of these responses!) as it will happen again, I can guarantee it.

I’ve worked in male dominated workplaces my entire career. I worked as an engineer on a chemical plant in the 1980’s and now teach engineering. If I couldn’t make conversation in a normal way with men it would be a very isolated existence. Families and pets are normal topics of conversation, as are holidays, films tv programmes and sport. Men are not aliens, in my experience they love to chat. You don’t need to be distant for them to respect your professional abilities.

Get a life!

"Oh no, a man asked me if I have kids?!" And what?

Just answer him. Whats the big deal?

This is an odd thread. I don’t really see any great offence here. I’d just answer the question like a civilised person. I’m happy to chat to folk and it’s not like he’s asking you what kinda knickers u wear !

What is wrong with people??? It's a perfectly innocent and normal question. Is there anything which doesn't offend some people? Honestly, maybe everyone should just never speak at all, it would solve all these (ridiculous) dilemmas some people have.

Children are always a topic of conversation in my mixed (but mainly female) office . And also within DH and DS mainly male work environments ....... alongside topics such as the weather, what was on TV last night and plans for the weekend .