People seem to have a different philosophy on answering the typical what do you do? question. No matter where you go or who you’re with, eventually someone asks you this question. It’s a common, acceptable way to learn more about who you are.
Some people view that as an opening to start “selling” someone their products or services. Some people answer the question with a question. I even know a hair stylist who answers the question depending on how she looks. If her hair is done and her makeup is good, she tells people she’s a hair stylist. If she isn’t “looking good” that day, she says only that she’s a mom.
We ask what do you do? because we’re searching for common ground. We want to know if we have something in common so that we can continue to build a relationship.
If you want to build a relationship with someone, include the person who asked the question in your response.
I help women who are feeling burned out or frustrated to build a business so they can make money doing what they love. My goal is for every woman to pursue her passions and live abundantly & joyously. Have you ever felt that frustrated or burned out?
Including the person in your response keeps the conversation flowing. Every conversation creates opportunities. When you talk with someone, the person may become a client or might refer you to someone else.
We use conversation as a way of building relationships. Those relationships are the foundation for creating our success.