How to sign "Job" in Sign Language

This is a sign you'll see often, especially in the context of professional interactions, but also just in general small talk! I mean – how many times do you get asked what you do for work?

Signing "Job"

  1. Hand Position: Begin with both hands in fists, with your thumbs on the outer sides of your hands.
  2. Starting Placement: Position your non-dominant hand in front of your body at about waist level, palm facing upward. Then, place your dominant hand, with its side resting on your non-dominant hand.
  3. Movement: Tap your dominant hand twice against your non-dominant hand.
  4. Facial Expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression.

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Note

This sign can mean the noun, JOB or WORK, as in "What do you do for work?" You can also use this sign to mean the verb TO WORK. Additionally, if you exaggerate your hand movement, this can signify WORKING HARD.

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Learn how to sign "role," "position," and "job."

When signing it yourself isn't enough

Learning to sign is a great start. For the moments that have to be right (a medical appointment, a parent-teacher meeting, a legal conversation) Ava connects you with a credentialed ASL interpreter over video in the Ava app, on demand or scheduled ahead. Available 24/7, with live captions included.