In fact, there are times when that seems to be the most useful communication strategy, and it's one I've been working on learning for the last few months.

I've noticed situations like this - I keep in mind Dennett's intentional stance. Just like there are some computer programs that I can beat at games by attributing beliefs and desires to them, there are some people with whom I can interact more successfully if I assume they don't have (propositional) beliefs and desires, and are instead just reacting to social cues. It's scary when I realize I place most people into the latter category.