Ever tried to explain your job to someone close to you, only to get a blank stare in return? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a recruiter, coach, designer, or someone who works mostly online, chances are your family and friends don’t fully grasp what you actually do all day. It can be especially tricky when your work isn’t easily visible, when it lives in your laptop, Zoom calls, or abstract strategies. In this post, we’re diving into how to explain your job to family in a way that creates a connection instead of confusion, and why it might matter more than you think.
“I Help People Get Jobs”: When Your Job Feels Hard to Describe
My mother was a French teacher with a Master’s degree, but no business background. When I became a recruiter in 1999, I tried to explain what I did. She never really got it. She’d just say, “Irene helps people get jobs.”
Later, when I became a resume writer and coach, she became even more vague. She didn’t know what a resume was, and she wasn’t interested. She was in her 70’s at that time. Still: “Irene helps people get jobs.”
Why It Matters That Your Family Understands Your Work
It made me wonder: What do your kids, parents, or friends think you do when you are “at work”?
Do they really understand your job? Do you care? Have you ever tried to explain it to them or show them? Again — does it matter to you?
“Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day” was launched in 1993 by the Ms. Foundation for Women, and some companies still participate. It’s a great program to help kids connect with the adult world of work.
If your job is hands-on (chef, nurse, rancher) there’s something to watch. But if you are mostly sitting behind a computer, how to do you help them to understand? Strategies can be established on how to do this.
The Power of Sharing What You Do Even if They Never Fully Get It
It’s worth thinking about. The people around you might be more curious than you realize.
At the end of the day, you don’t need everyone in your life to fully understand the ins and outs of your career, but there’s real value in feeling seen. Whether it’s helping your kids picture your work day or finally getting your parents to stop saying “you work with computers,” taking the time to explain what you do can lead to stronger relationships and more meaningful conversations.
So if you’ve ever struggled with how to explain your job to family, now might be the perfect time to give it another shot.. this time, with clarity, heart, and maybe even a few visuals.
If you’re ready to talk about your work with more clarity, ease, and impact, let’s connect. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation and let’s find the words that truly reflect what you do.