The Social Gathering Interview

I think people by nature are social creatures. It’s almost as if we come up with excuses to get together and socialize about something, whether it’s sports, the weather, movies, television shows, or just to be in the presence of other people and avoid boredom.

The great thing about socializing is that you are guaranteed to increase your network of friends and acquaintances, especially after you move to a new state. Your opportunities to hang out with new people through work, your neighbors or by introduction from others are there for the taking.

Invariably, when you do meet new people in social situations, you are sure to be asked one specific question (after divulging your name, of course): “What do you do?”

It is my personal opinion that you are instantly judged based upon what answer you give. I think that whether you reply with “teacher,” “lawyer,” or “police officer,” etc., people will form an opinion about you based upon their interactions with people who have those jobs, or their pre-conceived notions of what responsibilities those professions require. (Try responding with “proofreader” and see what responses you get. I may as well tell folks I’m sailing with Christopher Columbus to the New World.)

I don’t ever judge someone based upon what answer they give me. For me, I’m more curious how their career path weaved for them to be in that position. Did they take a lateral position and their current job opened up? Did they study for it specifically in college? Were they unemployed and just took a job to get off of unemployment, and they liked it enough that they stuck with it? Were they fascinated by things that other people find unappealing? (I’m referring to any of you dental hygienists reading this now.)

The thing that makes me the most fascinated by it is that children may wish to grow up and be an astronaut, pilot, pro athlete, or some other job that less than 1% of the U.S. population has. No child that I ever encountered aspires to be a proofreader. It’s almost as if I’m seeking a “Behind the Music” moment from people whereby I learn where the stars aligned for them and their career path formed before their eyes.

If you’re reading this and care to share your story with me by posting below, I’m very curious how your career journey transpired into your current job.

This holds especially true if you’re a dental hygienist.

Quattro