I'm clearly in the minority here, but I like to ask the question and I like answering it. I have no hidden agenda when I ask it and people can feel free not to answer if they're uneasy with it for some reason. As I said, I'm happy to answer the question, as well, and there have been many times in my life when I've been unemployed and will gladly state that, also. If they're a judgmental type, they'll judge, if not, they won't. So what?

I think it's a friendly, useful way to exchange information and to see what you may have in common with the other person.