When someone says, "you don't know me," it can be an expression of frustration or defensiveness. To respond to this comment effectively, it's essential to be respectful and empathetic while also asserting your perspective. Here's a good comeback:
"I may not know everything about you, and I apologize if I came across that way. I didn't mean to make assumptions. But I genuinely care and want to understand you better. So, why don't you share more about yourself, so we can build a stronger connection?"
Possible responses from the other person could be:
They might open up and start sharing more about themselves, realizing that you are genuinely interested in knowing them better.
They might still maintain their defensive stance and provide limited information or no response at all.
They might appreciate your willingness to listen and reciprocate by showing interest in getting to know you better as well.
It's crucial to remain patient and understanding in these situations, as building trust and rapport takes time, especially if the other person feels guarded. By responding with empathy and curiosity, you create a more open and inviting atmosphere for communication.