"I think people who ask the question so who do you work for are boorish. I think we just haven’t learned how to be social. Before the traditional holiday season comes around I think we can all arm ourselves with some really good questions and as often as possible lets try to kickstart the conversation in a tone that is more social, less hierarchical. How about these: “What do you love about your what you do?”, “What’s going on in your community?” “What do you love to do in your spare time?” “What are your favourite places to travel?” “Been anywhere lately?” As for feeling a little low about your role, consider working on a compelling vision / mission statement that gets you excited. The truth of the matter is most people will be jealous of your self-governance structure. A true answer spoken with pride will elicit a much more influential air. First be really proud, excited about what you do. Then respond truthfully, “Ain’t nobody telling me what to do, ain’t reporting to anyone. I..." - todd lucier