I don't like the question because it indicates that what you do is who you are or is how you find value or something like that. You know what I mean? And that's been confirmed for me by how people answer the question. In this economy a lot of people are going back to school or working jobs they don't like or unemployed or underemployed. So when they answer the question they answer in a tone that says they're not very proud of what they do. And then I feel bad for asking.
So my question for you is, what's a better question to ask? Is there a way to get to know someone better without asking what they do? Or just a better way to ask the question.
I have always hated that question too! It always seems to revolve around "work", even if you don't work anywhere.
ReplyDeleteI often ask "So, what's your story?" but I feel it's too deep if you've just met someone. Another good option is "Tell me about yourself."
I usually ask "So are you working anywhere right now?"
ReplyDeleteAlthough some people can go overboard and act like I'm assuming they are lazy and don't work? So I just ask it after I've already been doing small talk for a bit.
John, I like "tell me about yourself." I like being asked that. People, in general, I think like being asked about themselves. That's a great alternative. I agree that "What's your story" is a little deep.
ReplyDeleteMal, I can't believe people really get upset about that. So much for trying to be sensitive, huh?
I like 'tell me about yourself' too. I've been having that same problem lately.
ReplyDelete