Entering into a conversation with a new acquaintance can sometimes feel like walking on a tightrope. You’re expected to answer the classic question, “And what do you do?” with confidence and clarity.
But how do you ensure your response doesn’t leave your conversation partner scratching their head or glancing nervously at the exit? Let’s delve deeper into the art of explaining your job with finesse with the Never the Naked Job Technique.
Go Beyond the Job Title
Imagine you’re at a social gathering, and someone pops the inevitable question: “So, what do you do?” Responding with just your job title is like handing them an unsolved riddle. Instead, aim to provide a concise yet informative description of your profession.
For instance, if you’re an actuary, you could say, “I’m an actuary, which means I use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess and manage financial risks for organizations.”
By offering this additional context, you provide a clearer picture of your role and engage your listener’s curiosity.
Weave a Relevant Story
Stories have a remarkable ability to make abstract professions tangible and relatable. Sharing a brief anecdote or example from your work experience can breathe life into your explanation.
Let’s say you’re an attorney specializing in employment law. You could recount a recent case: “I’m an attorney, and I focus on employment law. Currently, I’m handling a case where an employee was unfairly dismissed due to taking necessary maternity leave. It’s challenging but rewarding work, as we aim to protect employees’ rights.”
This not only informs your listeners but also invites them to connect on a human level.
Adapt to Your Audience
Not every explanation fits every listener. Tailor your response to the person you’re conversing with. If they have a background in a related field, emphasize aspects of your job that align with their interests.
For instance, when speaking with a business owner, you might mention cases related to workplace policies or employee relations, as this is more likely to resonate with them.
Sidestep the Jargon Trap
As an expert in your field, you might be fluent in industry jargon and technical terms. However, when explaining your job, avoid overwhelming your listeners with terminology they may not understand. Instead, opt for plain, accessible language.
Remember, the goal is not to showcase your expertise but to foster a meaningful exchange.
Make It Relatable
The key to a successful job explanation is making it relatable to everyday life. Draw parallels between your profession and common experiences, making your work more tangible.
If you’re a nuclear scientist, you could say, “I’m a nuclear scientist, and my work involves studying the behavior of atoms and particles. Think of it as solving intricate puzzles on the tiniest scale.” This analogy provides a relatable mental image and sparks curiosity.
Never the Naked Job in Action
Remember, explaining your job isn’t just about conveying information; it’s an opportunity to connect, share, and engage.
By using the Never the Naked Job technique, you can navigate the “And what do you do?” question with finesse, leaving both you and your conversation partner feeling like winners in the art of meaningful communication.
So, embrace the challenge and turn every inquiry into an enriching dialogue, one conversation at a time.