[blackboxlogic]

Not a good proxy for "smart", but when I'm deciding whether or not to pursue future interactions (professional or socially), I turn to the classic turing test. Spend most of the conversation listening, except as needed to keep the conversation going. Imagine you can't see or hear them, but only read their words on paper. How sure are you that they are not a computer program? For me, notes of emotion, hints of future hope or past regrets, recognition that humans are flawed or acknowledging that others may hold a different perspective are strong moves. Silliness, reasoning, compassion, specialized interests score points too.

Next, run this test on yourself. Be more human.