When People Ask "What do you do for a living" What say you?

Maybe. Maybe not. I think it depends on the general political orientation of the individuals social circle(s). Up here in Canada, most people are socialist/left-wing, who have no understanding of economics, are decidedly anti-capitalist (despite earning their living from capitalism), and hold a general disdain for 'making money' as a selfish or parasitical pursuit. America is different, in that regard. The almighty dollar reigns supreme and if you're getting paid, you get respect.

 

That is a good point, it would depend on your social circle.

But I have to wonder, how many people really live on capital gains alone year after year? That's pretty hardcore.

I would say that unless trading is the sole source of income there is no need to mention it if it makes you uncomfortable. When asked simply give your other occupation: job, business owner, freelancer, or whatever it may be.

 

I like this. Its simple and usable, thx

 

I wonder if one said the truth, simply trader, and then started to talk about the trades that were a loss, what effect that would have in the conversation.

 

As far as a living from the markets, I think that goes back to the circle you run in.

I like to fly under the radar, so my response has always been:

Quantitative Analyst

Even if they are fine with me being a trader, I've just come to discover that many people just can't handle the markets, and I'm doing them a service by not steering them towards it.

 

Yup, that's what I generally say.

Funny, because it's actually what I used to do.

 

Alternatively, another saying would be Financial Analytics. lol

 

Technical analysis of financial markets.

 

When I meet new people and get asked, I do say I trade stocks for a living, but I make it a point to mention the number of years I've been doing it. I don't think I come across as unemployable, so I assume they'd rule out that I'm making an excuse for being in-between jobs or something.

My wife tends to playfully say stuff like "yeah he's a daytrader, basically sits around the house all day and does nothing", and I get the distinct feeling some people take her seriously, especially the ones that clam up and are probably feeling sorry for her.

Anyway, I used to be more self-conscious about this stuff when I first started, but much less insecure about it these days.

 

I had a trader once tell me that as he made more and more consistent money he cared less and less about what anyone thought.