Paths to growth through relationship

We often ask, "what do you do?" - a question which conveys nothing about ourselves and is at best a baby step toward relationship.
If, having shared or being willing to share something important to us, we ask, "what is important to you here?", we open the door to friendship.
If we know someone well enough to ask, "what values have served you best?", we convey openness to examining our own values, respect for the other person, and interest in his or her values.  We open a door to growth, of ourselves and of the relationship.
If, having shared or being willing to share questions we ask ourselves, we know someone well enough to ask, "what questions do you ask yourself?", we open the door to both great friendship and great growth.