How to Answer “So, What Are You Doing After Graduation?” at Thanksgiving

Have one confident sentence ready that says what you’re working toward, even if nothing’s lined up yet. For example: “I’m applying for marketing coordinator roles in Chicago, ideally at a mid-size company.” Then ask a follow-up question back. A specific answer stops the awkward follow-ups and turns relatives into people who might actually know someone hiring.

Why is this question so stressful?

Because it usually lands in front of an audience, right between the stuffing and the pie. And when the honest answer is “I don’t know yet,” it feels like a test you’re failing.

Here’s the thing: you don’t need a job offer to answer it well. You need a direction. Relatives aren’t really asking for your five-year plan. Most of them just want something to say back.

What’s the best one-line answer?

Pick the version that fits where you are. Each one is short, specific, and true.

If you have a job lined up:

“I’m starting as a financial analyst in Dallas in January. I’m excited, and a little nervous.”

If you’re actively applying:

“I’m applying for marketing coordinator roles, mostly in Chicago. I’ve had a couple of interviews so far.”

If you’re still figuring it out:

“I’m narrowing it down between data analysis and operations. I’m talking to people in both to see which fits better.”

If you’re taking a different path (grad school, a gap, a contract role):

“I’m doing a six-month contract in HR while I apply for full-time roles. It’s been good experience.”

Notice what these have in common. A role, a place or a next step, and no apologizing.

What if they push for more details?

Some relatives will. Keep it light and redirect.

“Still working on it! Honestly, I’d love advice. What was your first job like?”

Asking about their experience does two things. It takes the spotlight off you, and it gets people talking about their careers, which is where useful leads come from.

How do you turn relatives into job leads?

This is the part most people miss. Your family table is a network. Your uncle’s coworker, your cousin’s roommate, your aunt’s neighbor who works in HR at a hospital. People want to help. They just don’t know how.

Make it easy for them:

1. Be specific about what you want. “I’m looking for entry-level roles in supply chain” gives people something to match. “Anything, really” gives them nothing.
2. Ask a small question, not for a job. “Do you know anyone who works in logistics? I’d love to ask them a few questions about it.”
3. Follow up within a few days. Send a short text: “Great seeing you Thursday! You mentioned your friend works in operations. Would you be open to connecting us?”
4. Make the intro easy. Offer a two-sentence blurb about yourself they can forward.

Even one good conversation from Thanksgiving can lead to an informational call, a referral, or a heads-up about an opening that hasn’t been posted yet.

What if the questions turn into unsolicited advice?

It happens. “Have you tried just walking in and handing them a resume?”

Smile, say “That’s a good thought,” and move on. You don’t have to defend your strategy at dinner. If a relative’s advice is outdated, it’s still a sign they care, and they might know someone useful even if their tactics are from 1995.

What if the question genuinely stresses you out?

That’s normal, especially in a tough market. Two things help:

• Practice your line out loud before dinner. Saying it once or twice makes it feel automatic.
• Remember it’s one question in a long day. Answer, redirect, and go get more pie.

And if you need a reset after the holiday, a small daily routine helps more than a giant weekend push. Our 15-minute daily job search routine is built for exactly that.

FAQ

What should I say if I have no plans after graduation? Share your direction instead of a plan: the type of role you’re exploring and one step you’re taking, like talking to people in that field.

Is it okay to ask family members for job connections? Yes. Be specific about what you’re looking for and ask for an introduction or a conversation, not a job.

How do I stop relatives from asking about my job search? Give one confident answer, then ask them a question back. A clear answer usually ends the follow-ups.

Should I bring copies of my resume to Thanksgiving? No. Instead, follow up afterward with a short message and offer to send your resume if someone wants to pass it along.

Ready to get specific about your next step? Browse entry-level jobs on WayUp.