The question is a bit of a minefield. It can be hard to determine the best answer, especially if you’re in the dark when it comes to language. However, there are some key takeaways that can help you craft a rousing response.
One of the best ways to get to the bottom of this conundrum is to ask someone with whom you’re familiar, and to do it with a smattering of the right words. For example, if you’re in the market for a new car, a good conversation starter is to let the dealership know you have a few questions about the car you’re about to purchase. You may also be interested in finding out if your vehicle is covered under the company’s warranty. This is also a good time to discuss the best routes to take to your chosen destination.
Another way to figure out what’s best for you is to consider your own personal strengths and weaknesses. For example, you may have a weakness for nitpicking and a strength in organizational management. These are all qualities that you should be aware of before taking on a new role.
In the same vein, the best way to know what you’re good at is to be observant. For instance, you should know that you’re not as likely to be a jack of all trades as you may think. If you are lucky enough to have a few close friends or family members, you will inevitably get the “how are you?” questions from time to time. That’s where a witty, well-timed answer can make all the difference in the world.
To keep your head in the game, it’s best to have a few go-to answers at your disposal. Of course, the best answers are those that are tailored to the individual you’re talking to. So, while it’s tempting to use a similar response for each individual, you may want to stick with a single statement for each. Likewise, your answer will be more nuanced if you are able to ask specific questions about the person’s current job. And while you’re at it, be sure to include some of the most interesting details about his past work and educational experiences, if any. As with most things in life, a little tlc can go a long way.
Another ode to the olfactory is to learn about the history of your chosen craft. A good source of information may be to study the past successes of others in your field. Fortunately, there are plenty of websites that will allow you to do this for free. For example, the Robert Half Salary Guide provides an informative tidbit about salary trends over the past few decades. Also, keep an eye out for any new or exciting career opportunities that may present themselves. Even if you’re not planning on changing jobs any time soon, it never hurts to keep an ear out. After all, you never know when you might be able to score that promotion.