'How's Your Job Search Going?'

Have you heard this question in the last 24 hours? The conversation, unfortunately, goes something like this:

Them: "How's your job search going?"

You: "Fine."

Them: "Let me know if I can help with anything."

You: "OK."

Uncomfortable pause.

This was a useless dialog. They didn't learn anything new and you didn't help them understand how they could help you. They might tell you about a lead they found for you on a job board. They want to help you but you are not helping them. You are not giving off the right signals.