So let’s say you’re at a get-together, like a networking event, a party, a potluck and so on. Suddenly, an acquaintance slides up to you and says, “Hi, have you met So-And-So?” You haven’t met, so you start chatting. The small talk is proceeding well enough until So-And-So drops the big one. The dreaded, generic, incredibly open-ended “So, what do you do?”
What do you do when someone asks you, “What do you do?”
The problem with this question is that people often ask this question as a generic, getting to know you type of inquiry, wanting to feel comfortable with another person on at least the first level of communication. Instead, the answer usually falls into one of several uncomfortable categories:
- Poor attempts at humor. “I’m a disposable lighter repairman,” they might say. Or “I put the pimentos in green olives.” Unless you actually do these jobs, it’s best to stay away from doing this.
- The job put-down. Sure, this might be an attempt at humor, but by putting down the job (ie: “I pollute the Internet because I make online ad campaigns,” or “Oh, it’s really boring…”), there comes an almost anticipated amount of pity and negativity that can sour the interaction.
- Complaining. We’ve all had a bad day at work, and sometimes, the question can lead to a long monologue about the injustices of the workplace, stupid bosses and so on. The long-winded complaint is only effective in that it will make your new acquaintance want to move away from you very quickly.
- The technical explanation. Another way to get your audience scrambling for the doors is to offer the minute details of your job. Unless they’ve expressed interest in your field, you don’t need to fill the conversation with talk of TPS reports.
There is, however, one response that works well. And that’s the brief and effective response. If you can give a short (re: less than three sentences) description of your work, possibly the company you work for, and why you do it, you’ll be answering the question effectively and keeping the conversation moving well. For example:
Sue: So, what do you do, Bob?
Bob: Well, Sue, I’m a creative director for Acme Advertising. I get to make a lot of fun commercials for some really cool companies. What do you do, Sue?
Yes, it might seem a bit plain and trite, but by being direct and succinct with your response, you let people know what you do without dancing around the issue and invite them to ask further questions. Rather than guessing how someone might respond to your humor or using them as a free therapist to complain to, you will be setting the foundation for future conversations.
So, what do you do?
