I would rather talk about hobbies or interests rather than work. I do think that question from a stranger seems like he's trnya size up the meal ticket....so it does not impress me...ask me if I ever learned a half pipe and I'll luvya 4-ever tho :)

Yes, to nearly everyone the question "What do you do?" refers to occupation or alternatives to having a JOB.

Whether or not asking that question is a conversation-killer depends on the person asked. Some have interesting occupations or sources of income while others may have neither.

In some ways, a person's occupation indicates their social /economic positions and "status" -- which might be important to some inquirers.

Billy just loved it, he realy loved
the link because it fit realy well
on his auto rotate phone.
I liked it to but I'm going to wait
for the vidio to come out..Ponys
Just a lazy f*k, as of late.
Billy's a keener and wants to write a paper
for you on it. I told Billy that I think
It may be a bit much for him and he will
end up drifting again and fail the paper
and upset the dragon Lady. Do you see whats happening
here? we are killing independent Billy & breaking his
spirit! so what do you think? would you like
to see billy try again? give the kid a chance 'man'!

Singmesweet this is a fantastic article and topic. I always avoid the subject unless someone offers it up. I have been on both ends, Really proud and very humiliated regarding my jobs.Sometimes circumstances can dictate whether you are just surviving or well off.I remember my heart just dropping when I was in survival mode and how bad it made my self esteem.

Because I am burned out on writing analysis...blame college. But I ID'd myself as someone who truly enjoys their work (or rather past work) and still answer with the "I used to be an engineer before I became disabled." So I guess I had a hard time moving on myself? Of course I am redefining myself with college so I never lost my self esteem I guess you could say. Now I say "I am a college student for accounting, and used to be an engineer...." answer so I gradually accepted my new role in life.

Also, try to strike up a conversation with a sexually implicit name....turns me quite off and not wanting anything to do with them.

Really this is the common thing one who face while do conversation..This is the right posting..i appreciated and so nice of you..Dr.Raj...Bangalore...