How to politely tell customers to mind their own business?

I run a shop in a small town and i'm a fairly new arrival. I'm also pregnant which causes a lot of interest. I understand that customers/neighbours are curious about me but sometimes they ask things i'd rather not discuss with strangers or be town gossip. How can i politely tell them to mind their own business without seeming offended/offensive or losing any customers?

I'll tell you something that Southern women use to great effect. When asked a delicate question they will say something like, "How sweet of you to ask.". or, " It does really show, doesn't it?", all delivered with a smile. Then they go on to another subject like," could I also get you a Grommet to go with those widgets?".

The question goes politely, but very clearly unanswered. It is the pleasant way of being told not only to buzz off, but that she is to polite to mention my transgression.

Good luck in a small town. Nosy people, but nice to be able to not have to lock your car doors at the store or take walks at night.

I would say, "I'd rather not talk about it, sorry."

If someone asks something you don't want to answer, just look at them for a second, silently, and then change the subject.

I really think it would be difficult to do that without losing customers. If I were you, I'd probably try to wear things that don't draw attention to your belly. If you are only early in the pregnancy you should be able to do this easily. If you are late in the pregnancy, then just wait until you have the baby.

People love pregnant women. They are fascinating and beautiful. I know it must be annoying for you, but that's just one part of being pregnant. If anything, it might create more sales if you are friendly about it :)

I'm sorry but I don't feel comfortable discussing that. Is there anything else I can help you with.

You have to approach this situation carefully: Try telling "I do not mean to be rude, but I'd rather not talk about it right now."
or, "Sorry, but at the moment I can't talk about this things. Please don't mind."

You got your hands full on that one. They will not let you off the "hook" .....you are on the spot here. You could say...."Well...my mother wanted me to get a cat.....but having thought it through...I figured why not grow this huge belly to take up space on my lap and hey....it even shares my DNA...

Just give a vague answer and change the subject. Like my MIL is always asking how much we paid for things. Like our house and cars, so she can gossip about it later. We just say "Oh, we got a good deal on it." and change the subject.

yep it's going to be kinda hard for people to resist talking to you b/c u are pregnant (sorry), but i like the answer that talks about being silent for a moment and changing the subject...

i have read that if someone ask u an uncomfortable question to smile and say "why do you want to know"

or you could smile and quickly say i rather not talk about that, so how are U doing today??

i think something to the affect of i'd rather not talk about it would work or u could always give a general answer that doesn't really answer the question and they should get the hint...good luck

You might just say "I'm not really comfortable discussing (whatever the issue is) in a public setting", or something like that.

You might try to someshat deftly change the subject.

Your customers wish to get to know you, but it is up to you how far they can get in the door.

"are you gonna buy this or a re you gonna bullcrap me?"

Just reply, "How can I help you?" or "Do I know you?"

My goodness, a pregnant woman, sheesh, what next!

I think that they are not curious, but rather NOSEY. I would respond by giving them an obvious look of shock, then carry on with the sale or whatever conversation without offering any information or acknowledge their questions. Small town life can be a challenge.

Oh, by the way, I hope you don't let them rub your tummy.

just change the subject everytime you mention it. theyl get the hint.