Ask back
Return with an open question so the other person has room to continue.
Serious advice · Be specific
“Your notes are kind of impossible to follow.”
Humor · Exaggerate
“Wow, you're here early. Did you sleep here?”
Serious advice · Validate first
“I didn't get the job. I really thought I had it.”
Humor · Ask back
“So... is this a date, or just dinner?”
Humor · Be specific
“So, what do you do?”
Humor · Exaggerate
“How do you work with that many tabs open?”
Humor · Sidestep
“Mind if I ask what a job like that pays?”