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How to talk about your job in English, with examples

"So, what do you do?" is the most common question in adult conversation, and most learners answer with a job title and a full stop — "I'm an accountant." — which kills the conversation. A good answer takes 15 seconds and gives the other person something to ask about.

The pattern: role + place + what it actually involves + one human detail. "I'm an accountant at a logistics company — I mostly handle the monthly reporting and, lately, a big software migration, which is keeping me busy." Useful phrases: "I work in [field]", "I work for [company]", "I'm in charge of…", "I mainly…", "a big part of my job is…", "lately I've been working on…". For the follow-up: "What's the best part?" → "Honestly, it's…"; "Is it stressful?" → "It can be, especially when…".

Say your version out loud, several times, until it comes out without thinking — that's the whole difference between knowing the phrases and using them. Airi will ask you the question, respond like a person at a party or an interview, and fix small mistakes as you go. Free to start.

A quick example with Airi

So, what do you do?
I'm a nurse in a private hospital. I work in the emergency department, so every day is different.
Small fix: "at a private hospital." That sounds intense — what's the hardest part?
Honestly, the night shifts. But I like that we really help people quickly.
That's a great answer — specific, human, and it invites more questions.

How to get the most from it

Role + place + what you do

Give three pieces, not one. It keeps the conversation alive.

Add one human detail

"…which is keeping me busy" or "…and I love it" makes you a person, not a title.

Prepare the follow-ups

"Best part?", "Stressful?", "How did you get into it?" — rehearse them with Airi.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I answer 'what do you do?'
Role, where, what it involves, one detail — about 15 seconds. Then ask them back.
What if my job is hard to explain?
Describe what you do for people: "I help companies…", "I make sure that…". Airi can help you find a plain version.
Can I practise this out loud?
Yes — Airi asks the question, reacts naturally and corrects gently. Free to start.

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