before I opted out of the phone solicitation situation,,(oh, wonderful relief!) I used to reply to the INEVITABLE "how are you?", with "anyone who starts a phone conversation like that is trying to sell me something." It usually shortens the conversation.

What I do NOT like is folks who MUST open a conversation with some rote, automatic, pre-programmed bit of semi-formal mumble.... I listen to radio talk shows a lot, and about 7 out of 10 callers seem th think they MUST say "how ya' doin'?" before asking their question...even though the host has told the last 17 people he was just fine!

I like to be greeted with a simple, "hi" or "hello"...or even better when possible, a thought that sounds like the person is paying attention to me...even if it's unusual and quirky.