Why is work is the first question we ask?

Every time you meet someone and immediately ask, “What do you do?” you’re framing their identity around their job. It reinforces the idea that a person’s value is tied to productivity and income.

Leading with work makes it seem like their career is the main thing that defines them — even though, for many people, it’s just a way to pay bills, not the most meaningful part of their life.

What if we asked better questions instead — ones that invite people to share who they are beyond their labor? What are some alternatives you like to use when meeting someone new?