Will you please help me to answer my most-hated question???

kris · #1 01-03-2014

So... What do you guys say when asked what you do for a living? This has been a minor issue for me since I started selling on eBay. I find myself being extremely vague when asked this question, and changing the subject as soon as I can.

My husband and I are looking to move into a new rental home, and I never know exactly what to say when the prospective landlord wants to know how I make my money. We are going to look at (what seems to be) the perfect house this weekend, and I REALLY want it to go well. Obviously I don't have a job related reference to offer, so I at least want to sound somewhat successful (which I am) and like I know what I'm doing!

So... what do you say when asked what you do for a living? Ideas, suggestions or any input at all is greatly appreciated!!!

nivo · #2 01-03-2014

Do not seem to off topic/ dodging the question.. they may think you sell drugs or other illegal activity. Just say the truth, you are an online merchant or some variation. I.e you buy bulk and resell online or you buy and resell - as simple as that.

I would not say this is your problem, but if you reply on one eB, that is a greater problem. As too many people come on here saying they lost their home, cars, valuables, and got a divorce since they did not have several accounts.

rsot · #3 01-04-2014

Online sales and marketing successful business - that's all - if more asking happens, you can say I have impeccable credit, never any financial issues and no other issues, done. Landlord shouldn't too much of a problem.

Canada isn't bad

all the best for the weekend

kris · #4 01-04-2014

Thanks to the 2 of you for answering! (It seems I can always count on you for a reply, rsot - much appreciated!!!)

rsot · #5 01-05-2014

How did the house viewing/renting go?

kris · #6 01-06-2014

OMG it went GREAT!!! I took your advice and I'm pretty sure we're getting this place... It's beautiful! Pretty sure I overthink everything, including this question! Lol. Really appreciate your help!

nivo · #7 01-06-2014

Quote:

Originally Posted by kris

OMG it went GREAT!!! I took your advice and I'm pretty sure we're getting this place... It's beautiful! Pretty sure I overthink everything, including this question! Lol. Really appreciate your help!

Only reason we can sell online using stealth as we prep for anything and everything!

oompaloompa · #8 01-06-2014

tell them you do need to work as you have an inheritence, they will hate you secretly haha...

luverlyjuberly · #9 01-07-2014

I tell people i am an eBay Millionaire.

sax4 · #10 01-09-2014

Where i live in Eastern Europe they are puzzled when I tell them what I do for a living. Eventually I just say " I'm a biznisman", and they say "ooohhh why didn't you say"

rsot · #11 01-09-2014

Quote:

Originally Posted by sax4

Where i live in Eastern Europe they are puzzled when I tell them what I do for a living. Eventually I just say " I'm a biznisman", and they say "ooohhh why didn't you say"

I remember some of the stuff you told me sax4 hah - like the question you got asked (something like) "You have money coming out of computer?"

oompaloompa · #12 01-10-2014

or you are a successful alchemist....

vogeltron · #13 01-29-2014

Rather than joking around. I honestly tell people I am in the liquidation business of the products I sell. A few people ask questions for the most part I give honest answers. I will say even selling 100% Authentic products I never give out my eBay ID or my sources.

Honestly had like 200 questions over the years. How do you buy your products? Like I am going to give away the past 5 years of my life building relationships etc. Unreal. I hate this question as much as you.

Especially if you try to say you make your living mostly on eBay/Amazon etc. Others act like you don't have a real job etc. It is all nonsense. My best suggest is care less what everyone else thinks or says. Make $$$$$.