So, the other day, at a semi-formal event representing my boss, an older gentleman approached me and started making small talk. After a bit, he commented on how young I seemed, I couldn't be older than 31. I chuckled and told him that my 24th Birthday is next week, and that killed the conversation. He was embarrassed that his guess was 7 years off, and I was a bit offended that anyone would think I'm in my thirties just yet.

1. Would you be offended if someone guessed you were 7 years older than you are?
Strange, but not offended. I used to be guessed 7 years older, that was 7 years agoo. Now they still estimate me at the same age.

2. Do you think people assume "professionals" have to be older than 24?
I'd say that a little over 21 would be minimum. When emailing a professional of whom I only have a name I usually write as if he/she would be early-30s or older.

3. What would you do if someone guessed that far off on your age?
Smile and make a joke to kill any possible tension

4. Is it better to be perceived as your actual age, or to be perceived as older/more mature? Is it better to be perceived as younger?

5. I should just get over it, and realize that one guy is bad at guessing ages... right?
It's your choice to stay as upset as you want