What Do You Say When Asked "What Do You Do?" by Guest Blogger, Lois Albrecht

“So, what do you do?” How many times have you automatically asked that question when you meet someone for the first time?

It’s part of our culture, but has also become a dreaded question among many who are no longer employed or are transitioning from employment to they know not what. Many people don’t want to be defined by the work they’re doing at the moment, especially  the unemployed, underemployed, and recently retired. That can even be true of those who may have chosen an encore career, which may be paid or unpaid.

Crafting a satisfying answer ahead of time is one solution. I saved an interesting business card of a retired gentleman I met. Under his name the title was “Expert” with subtitles: "Ravines Cleaned, Sermons Preached, Tigers Tamed, Wars Fought, Professional Photographer, Experienced Sailor." Now there’s a conversation starter!

I suggest we come up with some great new “meeting people” questions, queries that help us connect with people in more meaningful ways. I sometimes ask “What do you do for fun?” That question can help me discover their hobbies, their passions, or – sometimes -- that they haven’t left much room for fun in their life. Another question that can be useful is “What are you looking forward to?” That can prompt a glimpse into their future hopes and dreams.

CHALLENGE: What alternative question would you suggest to replace “What do you do?” Comment below and let's get a dialogue going.

(Topic was contributed by Guest Blogger, Lois Albrecht of  Cornerstone Coaching & Consulting, dedicated to helping professionals, leaders and creative souls create meaning and purpose in the second half of life. Visit www.cornerstonecoaching.net.) 

Comments

[Barbara Malley]

(From my memoir, Take My Ex-Husband, Please--But Not Too Far}
Someone asked me, "What do you do?" I had rarely heard this question until I
started traveling. At first my stammered answer was "I'm a housewife, I
guess." But now another answer occurred to me: "Well, for one thing, I fly
an airplane." This terminated all conversations within earshot as
effectively as if I'd announced I was a go-go dancer.

[elliptical reviews]

No offense, but if there's a facebook like button, it'll be much easier for me to share.