how-to-answer-what-are-you-doing Archives * flexco.com

4 Effective Ways to Respond to “Whatcha Doin’?”

The question “Whatcha doing?” is an informal way of asking someone what they are doing. Although it is common in spoken English, it might come across as being a bit nosy or rude in written form. It’s usually best to use more formal language when writing, especially in professional or academic settings. If you’re not sure if “whatcha doing” is appropriate for a particular situation, it’s generally better to err on the side of caution and use a more formal phrase instead.

If you friend asks you “Whatcha doing?”, you don’t need to respond formally. However, if someone you don’t know well, such as a coworker, acquaintance, or someone in a position of authority asks, your response should be more polite. You can simply say “I’m doing well, thank you” and then you can briefly mention what you’re currently working on. For example, you could say, “I’m doing well, thank you. I’m currently working on a project for my English class.” Your response should be brief and to the point. You don’t want to bore the person with a long explanation of everything you’re doing.

Here are some additional tips for responding to the question “Whatcha doing?”:

Be polite and respectful, even if you don’t know the person well.
Keep your response brief and to the point.

If you’re not comfortable sharing what you’re doing, you can simply say that you’re busy or that you’d rather not say.

Responding to the question “Whatcha doing?” is simple, but it’s important to be mindful of your tone and the context of the situation. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your response is polite and appropriate.

Responding with a Direct Answer

When someone asks you “Whatcha doing?” or “What are you doing?”, a direct answer is the most straightforward approach. This response provides a clear and concise account of your current activity. Here are some tips for responding with a direct answer:

1. Be Specific

Avoid using vague or general terms when giving your answer. Instead, provide specific details about what you’re doing. For example, instead of saying “I’m working,” you could say “I’m writing an article on how to respond to ‘Whatcha doing?'” This level of detail helps the person asking the question get a better understanding of your activity.

2. Use Active Language

Use active language rather than passive language when describing your actions. Active language implies that you are actively engaged in the activity, while passive language suggests that the activity is being done to you. For example, instead of saying “I’m being asked a question,” you could say “I’m answering a question.” Active language makes your response sound more engaging and dynamic.

3. Be Concise

While it’s important to provide enough detail in your answer, try to be as concise as possible. Avoid rambling on and including unnecessary information. A concise response is more likely to be understood and remembered by the person asking the question.

Direct Answer	Meaning
“I’m watching TV.”	You are currently viewing a television program.
“I’m reading a book.”	You are currently reading a printed or electronic book.
“I’m cooking dinner.”	You are preparing a meal.

Using Humor to Defuse the Situation

Humor can be a powerful tool for diffusing tense or awkward situations. When someone asks, “Watcha doing?” with a confrontational tone, it’s important to remain calm and respond with a lighthearted or witty retort. Here are some examples:

Your Response	Example
Deadpan	“Contemplating the meaning of life… while waiting for my pizza to arrive.”
Sarcastic	“Oh, just plotting world domination… nothing major.”
Self-deprecating	“I’m just here, being hopelessly incompetent and trying not to embarrass myself further.”

By responding with humor, you can take the sting out of the situation and turn it into a more lighthearted exchange. This can help to defuse any potential conflict and create a more positive atmosphere.

Establishing Boundaries Politely

When someone asks “Whatcha doing?” and you feel uncomfortable sharing your personal information, it’s essential to communicate your boundaries respectfully.

Keep It Simple and Direct

Politely and directly indicate that you’re not comfortable answering that question. For instance, you can say, “I’m not comfortable sharing that information.” This response is concise, clear, and sets a firm boundary.

Use Indirect Language

If you prefer a more indirect approach, try using phrases like, “That’s a private matter I’d rather keep personal.” This suggests that you value your privacy without being confrontational.

Offer an Alternative Response

Consider offering an alternative response to redirect the conversation. For example, you could say, “I’m just finishing up some work” or “I’m taking a break right now.” This gives the other person a response without disclosing specific details.

Establish Clear Limits

If the persistent behavior continues, you may need to establish clearer limits. Explain that you will only answer questions related to essential topics, such as work or professional matters. You can also set time limits for conversations, restricting them to specific hours.

Use Nonverbal Cues

Body language and facial expressions can also convey boundaries. Maintain eye contact, stand up straight, and have an assertive posture. This demonstrates that you are confident and not easily swayed.

Practice Your Responses

Prepare and practice how you will respond to unwanted questions. This will help you stay calm and assertive when the situation arises.

Be Consistent

Enforce your boundaries consistently. Don’t allow exceptions, as it can weaken their effectiveness. By staying firm and respectful, you can establish clear boundaries and protect your privacy.

Maintaining a Professional Tone

When responding to “Whatcha doing?” in a professional setting, it is crucial to maintain a formal and respectful tone. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Address the person appropriately: Use formal titles (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr.) and their last name, unless you have a close relationship with them.
Be brief and to the point: Provide a concise response that clearly conveys your current task or status.
Use proper grammar and punctuation: Errors can create a negative impression and undermine your professionalism.
Avoid slang or informal language: Stick to standard English and avoid jargon or colloquialisms.
Consider the context: Tailor your response to the formality of the environment and the relationship you have with the person asking the question.
Be polite and respectful: Even if you are busy or interrupted, respond with courtesy and acknowledge the person’s presence.

Maintaining Clarity and Precision

In addition to maintaining a professional tone, it is important to ensure that your response is clear and precise. Here are some guidelines:

Use specific language: Provide details about what you are currently working on or what you have accomplished.
Avoid vague or ambiguous statements: Be specific and provide enough information to avoid confusion or misunderstandings.
Use appropriate technical terms: If necessary, use industry-specific terms to convey your tasks or responsibilities accurately.
Be concise: While it is important to provide enough information, keep your response brief and to the point.

Appropriate Responses	Inappropriate Responses
“I am currently reviewing the project proposal.”	“I’m busy.”
“I am preparing for the upcoming presentation.”	“I’m just doing some stuff.”
“I have a meeting scheduled in the next hour.”	“I’m not doing much just now.”

Asking for Clarification

If you’re not sure what someone means when they ask “Whatcha doing,” you can ask for clarification. Here are a few ways to do this:

Could you please be more specific?
I’m not sure what you mean. Can you explain?
Sorry, I don’t understand. Could you rephrase that?

If the person still doesn’t clarify, you can try to guess what they mean based on the context of the conversation. However, it’s important to avoid making assumptions. If you’re not sure, it’s always better to ask for clarification.

Here’s a more detailed explanation of the last point:

Don’t assume	Do ask for clarification
“Whatcha doing?” “Oh, just browsing the web.” (But you’re actually shopping for clothes.)	“Whatcha doing?” “I’m not sure what you mean. Can you explain?”

By asking for clarification, you can avoid misunderstandings and ensure that you’re on the same page as the other person.

Silently Ignoring the Question

The most straightforward response to “Watcha doing?” is to simply ignore it. This can be effective if you are in a situation where you don’t want to engage with the person asking the question or if you are simply not in the mood to talk. However, if the person persists in asking you what you are doing, it may be best to respond to them to avoid appearing rude or dismissive.

Here are some tips for silently ignoring the question:

Maintain eye contact and a neutral expression.
Continue with what you were doing and do not make any verbal or nonverbal cues that indicate you have heard the question.
If the person continues to ask, you can try moving away or changing the subject.

This table summarizes when it is appropriate to silently ignore the question “Watcha doing?”:

Situation	Response
You are in a public place and do not know the person asking the question	Ignore the question
You are in a private setting and the person asking the question is not a close acquaintance	Ignore the question
You are busy or otherwise occupied	Ignore the question

Politely Requesting Privacy

If you’d prefer to avoid giving a direct answer, or if you need to focus on a task, you can politely request privacy by following these steps:

1. Acknowledge the question: Let the person know that you’ve heard them and understand their question. For example, “I see you’re curious.”

2. Express your need for privacy: Explain that you’re currently focusing on a task or need some time to yourself. For example, “I’m trying to concentrate on something right now.”

3. Offer an alternative time: If possible, suggest a time when you’ll be more available to talk. For example, “I’ll be happy to chat later.”

4. Be firm but polite: Maintain a level of firmness in your tone while being respectful of the other person. For example, “I appreciate your understanding.”

5. Use non-verbal cues: Body language, such as maintaining eye contact, can convey your need for privacy.

6. Set boundaries: If the person persists, remind them of your boundaries and reiterate your need for privacy. For example, “I’ve explained that I need some time alone.”

7. Consider using the following phrases:

Respond with a Brief Explanation

When responding with a brief explanation to “Watcha doing?”, consider the following options:

Respond with “Nothing”

Use this response when you are genuinely not engaged in any specific activity.

Respond with “Just [activity]”

Simply state the activity you are currently doing, such as “Just watching TV” or “Just reading a book”.

Respond with “I’m [subject] [verb]”

Combine subject and verb to describe your action, e.g. “I’m working on a project” or “I’m studying for a test”.

Respond with “Thinking about [something]”

Express your current thoughts, e.g. “Thinking about what to cook for dinner” or “Thinking about a new project”.

Respond with “Nothing, just chilling”

Use this casual response to convey that you are relaxing or not actively engaged.

Respond with “Just waiting for [something]”

Indicate that you are waiting for something specific, such as “Just waiting for a call” or “Just waiting for my pizza to arrive”.

Respond with “I’m [doing activity] for [reason]”

Provide a brief explanation of your activity and reason behind it, e.g. “I’m cleaning my car for the weekend trip” or “I’m finishing some work for a deadline”.

Respond with “I’m [feeling] because [reason]”

Express your current emotional state and provide a reason for it. This response allows for a more personal and nuanced communication. For example, “I’m feeling excited because I’m going on a trip tomorrow” or “I’m feeling stressed because I have a presentation this afternoon”.

Using Assertive Communication

1. Maintain Eye Contact

Look directly at the person while responding, establishing a sense of confidence and respect.

2. Use “I” Statements

Take ownership of your feelings by using “I” statements. For example, instead of saying “You’re bothering me,” try “I find it distracting when you ask me about my day while I’m working.”

3. Be Clear and Direct

State your boundaries or intentions clearly and concisely. Avoid using vague or indirect language that could be misinterpreted.

4. Use a Calm and Firm Tone of Voice

Maintain a calm and controlled tone of voice, even if you’re feeling annoyed or frustrated. This will help prevent the situation from escalating.

5. Set Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries regarding what you’re willing and not willing to tolerate. Politely but firmly inform the other person that their behavior is unacceptable.

6. Don’t Interrupt

Allow the other person to finish speaking before responding. This shows respect for their opinion and gives you time to gather your thoughts.

7. Use Physical Barriers

If possible, create physical barriers to discourage further interruptions. For example, you could move to a different room or use headphones to block out distractions.

8. Stay Positive

Focus on positive and productive responses rather than dwelling on the negative. For example, instead of saying “Stop interrupting me,” try “I appreciate it when you give me the time to finish my thoughts.”

9. Additional Tips for Responding to “Whatcha Doing”

Response	Explanation
“I’m in the middle of something important.”	Politely informs the person that you’re not available for conversation.
“I have a deadline to meet.”	Provides a specific reason for your unavailability, creating a sense of urgency.
“I need to focus on my work right now.”	Emphasizes the importance of your task and politely declines an interruption.
“I’d rather not be disturbed at this moment.”	Sets a clear boundary and directly communicates your need for peace and quiet.
“Could you please give me some space?”	Asks the person to respect your personal space and avoid distractions.

Avoiding Confrontation

When someone asks you “Whatcha doing?” in an aggressive or confrontational manner, it’s important to remain calm and avoid escalating the situation. Here are 10 tips for responding without confrontation:

1. Stay Calm: Remain composed and avoid reacting emotionally. Losing your temper will only worsen the situation.

2. Be Polite: Even if the other person is being rude, respond with a respectful tone. This will show that you’re not going to engage in their negativity.

3. Use “I” Statements: Explain your actions using “I” statements. For example, say “I’m just trying to get some work done” instead of “You’re bothering me.”

4. Set Boundaries: Firmly but politely explain that you don’t appreciate being interrupted or questioned in such a way. Use phrases like “I’d prefer not to be disturbed right now.”

5. Ignore the Question: In some cases, the best response is simply to ignore the question and continue with what you’re doing. This shows that you’re not going to tolerate their behavior.

6. Offer an Alternative: If you’re willing, suggest a more appropriate time for them to ask their question or discuss the matter further. This allows you to maintain some control over the conversation.

7. Use Humor: Sometimes, a light-hearted response can defuse the tension. Try something like “Just minding my own business, like a good little citizen.”

8. Ask for Clarification: If you’re not sure what the other person is asking, ask for clarification. This shows that you’re interested in understanding their perspective.

9. Walk Away: If all else fails, you may need to physically walk away from the situation. Let the other person know that you’re not going to engage with them further.

10. Assess the Situation: If you feel that the other person is genuinely concerned about your well-being or safety, take their concerns seriously. Listen to what they have to say and respond appropriately.

Appropriate Response	Inappropriate Response
“I’m just trying to get some work done.”	“Why do you care?”
“I’d prefer not to be disturbed right now.”	“Mind your own business.”
“What would you like to talk about later?”	“Talk to me when I’m not busy.”

How To Respond To Watcha Doing

When someone asks you “Whatcha doing?”, there are a few different ways you can respond. The best response will depend on the situation and your relationship with the person asking. Here are a few tips on how to respond to “Whatcha doing?”:

Be honest. If you’re not doing anything, just say so. There’s no need to make up a story or try to sound busy.
Be brief. Don’t give a long, detailed explanation of what you’re doing. Just give a quick overview.
Be polite. Even if you’re not in the mood to talk, be polite to the person asking. A simple “I’m just relaxing” or “I’m working on a project” will do.
Be creative. If you’re feeling playful, you can respond with a creative answer. For example, “I’m training my pet dinosaur” or “I’m trying to solve the world’s hunger problem.” Be sure to have a sense of humor!

5 Professional Ways to Respond to “What Are You Doing?” in English

The question “What are you doing?” is a common one that can be asked in a variety of situations. Whether you’re at work, school, or a social event, you may be asked this question by a colleague, friend, or family member. While it may seem like a simple question, it can sometimes be difficult to know how to respond. After all, you don’t want to come across as rude or uninterested, but you also don’t want to share too much personal information. So, how do you respond to “What are you doing?” in a way that is both polite and appropriate?

One way to respond to “What are you doing?” is to simply state what you are currently doing. For example, you could say, “I’m working on a project for work” or “I’m studying for an exam.” This is a straightforward and honest way to answer the question, and it doesn’t require you to share any personal information. However, if you’re not comfortable sharing what you’re doing, or if you want to give a more general answer, there are other options available to you.

Another way to respond to “What are you doing?” is to give a more general answer. For example, you could say, “I’m just relaxing” or “I’m taking a break.” This type of answer is less specific, but it still gives the person who asked the question a general idea of what you’re up to. It’s also a good option if you’re not comfortable sharing what you’re doing, or if you don’t want to give a detailed answer.

Acknowledge and Show Appreciation

When someone asks you, “What are you doing?”, it’s important to first acknowledge their question and show appreciation for their interest. This can be done by saying something like, “Thank you for asking,” or “I appreciate your concern.” By acknowledging the question, you’re letting the other person know that you’ve heard them and that you’re willing to answer them. Showing appreciation for their interest shows that you value their time and attention.

Here are some specific examples of how to acknowledge and show appreciation when someone asks you, “What are you doing?”:

Response	How it acknowledges and shows appreciation
“Thank you for asking. I’m just finishing up some work.”	Acknowledges the question and shows appreciation by saying “thank you.”
“I appreciate your concern. I’m doing well, thanks.”	Acknowledges the question and shows appreciation by saying “I appreciate your concern.”
“I’m just taking a break. Thanks for checking in.”	Acknowledges the question and shows appreciation by saying “thanks for checking in.”

By acknowledging and showing appreciation when someone asks you, “What are you doing?”, you’re not only answering their question, but you’re also building a stronger relationship with them. It shows that you’re a thoughtful and considerate person who values their time and attention.

Offer a Brief and Informative Response

When asked “What are you doing?”, provide a concise and informative answer that conveys what you are currently engaged in. Avoid vague or generic responses. Instead, specify the specific task or activity you are involved in. This helps the person asking understand your current focus and schedule.

Provide Context and Details

In some situations, offering context and details beyond a brief response is appropriate. If you are in a work or professional setting, you may want to provide additional information about the project or task you are working on, especially if it is complex or has multiple components. This helps the person understand the scope and importance of your work.

Situation	Appropriate Response
Colleague asks during a work meeting	“I’m currently reviewing the sales data for the past quarter to prepare a presentation for the team.”
Friend asks in a casual setting	“I’m finishing up a project for my art class. It’s a painting of a sunset over the ocean.”
Family member asks while you’re preparing dinner	“I’m making your favorite lasagna for dinner. It should be ready in about an hour.”

Be Honest and Transparent

Honesty and transparency are crucial in any conversation, including when responding to the question “What are you doing?” Avoid giving vague or misleading answers. Instead, be upfront and clear about your activities, considering the context and relationship with the person asking.

Examples:

Appropriate	Inappropriate
“I’m catching up on some emails.”	“Just chilling.”
“I’m working on a presentation for a meeting tomorrow.”	“Stuff.”
“I’m taking a break from work to go for a walk.”	“Whatever.”

When responding honestly, consider the following:

**Level of Detail:**
Provide enough detail to satisfy the listener’s curiosity without oversharing private or sensitive information.

**Tone of Voice:**
Maintain a positive and respectful tone, even if your activity is not particularly exciting or important.

**Contextual Relevance:**
Keep the context and relationship with the person asking in mind when determining the appropriate level of honesty and transparency.

Respond Proportionally to the Context

When responding to “What are you doing?”, consider the context and the relationship between you and the person asking. Adjust your response accordingly:

Responding in Different Contexts

Consider the following scenarios:

Context	Appropriate Response
At work, during a meeting	“I’m currently presenting the marketing plan.”
At a party, meeting someone for the first time	“I’m having a wonderful time, meeting new people.”
Walking down the street, encountering a friend	“Just taking a stroll, enjoying the fresh air.”
In a public place, with headphones on	“Listening to my favorite music and relaxing.”
At home, on a video call	“I’m having a relaxed evening, catching up with family.”

Maintain Professionalism and Respect

Emphasize showing respect, decorum, and professionalism even in an informal setting:

Choose Polite Language: Use respectful language and avoid slang or unprofessional terms.
Maintain Eye Contact: Engage with the person asking the question and show attentiveness.
Listen Actively: Allow the person to finish their question without interrupting.
Be Concise and Clear: Provide a brief but informative response that addresses the question directly.

Additional Tips for Professional Responses:

Situation	Sample Response
In a meeting	“Currently, I’m engaged in this discussion. I’ll be happy to provide an update later.”
With a client	“I’m focusing on the ongoing project with your team, and I’m committed to its success.”
During a busy period	“I’m currently prioritizing urgent tasks, but I will make time for a follow-up conversation.”

Offer Alternative Contact Information

Offer alternative contact information to provide a more convenient method for others to reach you. This could include:

Alternative Contact Method	Example
Email address	johndoe@example.com
Cell phone number	(555) 123-4567
Instant messaging platform	Skype: johndoe
Social media profile	LinkedIn: John Doe

By providing multiple contact options, you increase the likelihood of being reached and pursuing the conversation further.

Use I Statements to Express Your Point of View

Assertively expressing your viewpoint can be challenging, especially when faced with differing opinions. However, using “I” statements is an effective technique to communicate your perspective respectfully and avoid confrontation. By employing “I” statements, you take ownership of your feelings and perspectives without blaming or accusing others. This approach helps maintain open and constructive communication.

Here’s a breakdown of how to craft effective “I” statements:

Start with “I”: Begin your statement with the pronoun “I” to indicate that you are expressing your own perspective.
Describe your emotions: Use descriptive words to convey your feelings about the situation. Avoid blaming language or generalizations.
State your needs: Express your wishes or desires related to the situation. Use clear and specific language.
Provide reasons: If possible, explain the reasons behind your emotions or needs. This helps others understand your perspective.
Use “when” or “because”: Connecting phrases like “when” or “because” can provide context and clarify the cause-and-effect relationship.
Avoid blaming language: Refrain from using accusatory language or generalizations that attack others. Focus on expressing your own experiences.

Be open to feedback: Invite others to share their perspectives and be willing to listen and adjust your own views as necessary.

Example:

Ineffective Communication	Effective “I” Statement
“You always interrupt me.”	“I feel frustrated when I’m interrupted because I have difficulty expressing my thoughts.”
“This is a terrible plan.”	“I have concerns about this plan because I don’t understand how it aligns with our overall goals.”

Consider the Time and Place

When responding to “What are you doing?”, consider the time and place. If you’re at work or in a meeting, your response should be professional and brief. In a casual setting, you can be more relaxed and chatty.

For example, if you’re at work and a colleague asks you what you’re doing, you could say:

At Work

Appropriate Response	Inappropriate Response
I’m working on a report.	I’m just browsing the internet.
I’m in a meeting.	I’m taking a break.
I’m helping a customer.	I’m not sure.

If you’re at a party or social event, you could say:

Casual Setting

Appropriate Response	Inappropriate Response
I’m talking to friends.	I’m avoiding that person.
I’m having a drink.	I’m trying to find a ride home.
I’m dancing.	I’m not feeling well.
I’m having a good time.	I’m bored.

Be Mindful of Nonverbal Cues

Beyond your verbal response, pay attention to your nonverbal cues, as they can significantly impact the message you convey. Consider the following tips:

1. Eye Contact

Maintain eye contact with the person asking the question. This conveys confidence, respect, and interest.

2. Facial Expression

A neutral or slightly positive facial expression is appropriate. Avoid appearing overly enthusiastic or bored.

3. Body Language

Stand or sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed. Keep your hands uncrossed and use open gestures to communicate openness and availability.

4. Tone of Voice

Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Avoid sounding rushed or distracted.

5. Hand Gestures

Use hand gestures sparingly and appropriately. They can help emphasize your words, but excessive gesturing can be distracting.

6. Touch

Be mindful of any physical contact. A light handshake or a brief touch on the shoulder can convey warmth and connection, but excessive or inappropriate touching can be off-putting.

7. Distance

Maintain an appropriate distance from the person asking the question. Standing or sitting too close can be intimidating, while standing too far away can create a sense of formality or indifference.

8. Context

Consider the context of the situation. If you’re in a formal setting, your nonverbal cues should be more reserved. In a casual setting, you may be more relaxed and expressive.

9. Practice and Observation

Practice your nonverbal cues in advance. Observe how others respond to different nonverbal behaviors. This will help you refine your own approach and convey the desired message effectively.

Practice Active Listening

Active listening is a crucial skill in any conversation, but it becomes even more important when you’re trying to understand what someone is doing. Here are ten tips for practicing active listening:

1. Make eye contact. This shows that you’re paying attention and engaged in the conversation.

2. Lean in toward the person speaking. This conveys interest and attentiveness.

3. Nod your head and make other non-verbal cues to show that you’re following along.

4. Ask clarifying questions. This helps to ensure that you understand what the person is saying.

5. Avoid interrupting. This shows that you value what the person is saying.

6. Summarize what the person has said to show that you’ve been paying attention.

7. Use verbal cues like “I see,” “I understand,” or “That makes sense” to indicate that you’re listening.

8. Focus on the speaker’s body language and tone of voice. These cues can provide insights into what the person is feeling and what they’re trying to convey.

9. Ask the person to repeat or clarify what they’ve said if you don’t understand.

10. Be patient. Active listening takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it perfect every time.

How To Respond To What Are You Doing

When someone asks you “What are you doing?”, there are a few different ways to respond. The best way to respond depends on the situation and the person who is asking. However, there are a few general tips that can help you respond in a polite and informative way.

First, try to be as specific as possible in your response. Don’t just say “I’m working” or “I’m at home.” Instead, say something like “I’m working on a project for work” or “I’m at home taking care of my kids.”

Second, be mindful of your tone of voice. If you sound bored or annoyed, the person who asked may feel like they are bothering you. Instead, try to sound enthusiastic and engaged. This will make the other person feel more comfortable and it will make your response more informative.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions. If the person who asked is not specific in their question, don’t be afraid to ask them for more information. This will help you give a more accurate and informative response.