Navigating Career Transitions: What Do You Do? Ugh!!!
For the unemployed, underemployed, or miserably employed, this simple inquiry "What do you do?" can trigger a downward spiral of negativity and self-recrimination. Our Inner Critic starts questioning our worth, value, competency, and capabilities as providers, contributors, or even human beings. In modern American society, work and identity are often tightly coupled. But there must be a way to answer "What do you do?" during a career transition in a way that feels positive, self-validating, and helpful. I believe there is.
Whether it’s casual chit-chat or a serious inquiry, having a ready and practiced answer to this question will benefit you both practically and emotionally during your transition. This is your 10-second shine time. Keep it conversational, light, and follow a formula like this:
State the context > State the action > State the facts. Then, if the circumstances are right, request advice, information, or recommendations (AIR). Context, Action, Facts, and maybe AIR.
Here’s how this might play out when you’re asked, "What do you do?" during a career transition.
Navigating Career Transitions for the Unemployed
“At the moment, I’m looking for a position where I can leverage my experience in customer service to work for a strong company here in Chicago. If you have any advice or ideas, I’d appreciate them.”
“At the moment, I’m actively seeking a position where I can apply my accounting background in an entry-level role with a defense contractor. If you know of any openings or have advice, I’d be grateful.”
The key here is the phrase "at the moment". This signals that you're in transition and highlights that the situation is temporary. Avoid diving into how long you've been job hunting or providing too many details about struggles—keep it short and to the point.
The phrase "I’m looking" emphasizes action and shows you are being proactive, not just waiting for opportunities to come to you.
Stating your skills, experience, or education (instead of a job title) broadens your potential and prevents limiting yourself to specific roles. Your background may qualify you for a wider range of opportunities than you initially realize.
The openness to advice, information, or recommendations (AIR) helps build your network. Networking and referrals are key, as they are responsible for 96% of job opportunities. People generally like being asked for their opinion—it shows respect.
Navigating Career Transitions for the Underemployed or Miserably Employed
“I’m currently working in retail sales while looking for a position where I can use my experience as a graphic designer. If you have any advice or ideas, I’d welcome them.”
“I’m currently in an entry-level marketing position at a large company but looking for a position with more responsibility, perhaps with a start-up business. If you have any recommendations, I’d be grateful.”
“I’m working in a secretarial role at a great company, but I don’t feel it’s the right fit for me. I’m looking for a job where I can better use my business degree. Any recommendations would be appreciated.”
Caution: Be cautious about where and when you discuss your dissatisfaction with your current job. It’s easier to find a job if you already have one. Never put your current position at risk by speaking negatively about your employer—this can lower your chances of getting recommendations or opportunities from those in your network.
The Bottom Line
Having a prepared response to the question "What do you do?" isn’t a magic bullet that guarantees the perfect job. However, this simple tool can turn a casual exchange at a social or networking event into an opportunity, especially during what can feel like a lonely and frustrating career transition. Be optimistic and prepared—you never know where your next opportunity might come from.
Advice by: Paulette Risher, President/CEO, Major General, U.S. Army Reserve (Retired), 256.883.7035, prisher@ssv.org
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