18 answers
Iqra
Student
Kansas City, Missouri
11
Questions
Asked
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What would you say the most difficult part of your job is?
Everything has pros and cons, what are the cons of your job?
#career #job #healthcare #medicine #employment #police #tech
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18 answers
Sean Wiethoff
Store Rep
4
Answers
Alexandria, Minnesota
Updated
Sean’s Answer
I work for the sales side of a telecommunications company. Some of the major issues I and even some of my peers run into are communicating with our customers. Our area is an elder based population. Where we normally can be more technical with our explanation of the products we have to simplify it way down.
among that, we can also run into the adverse communication of the customer who knows more than us. Often they've done their research and want more info on a product that we just don't know. Generally speaking, these customers already know what they want and they are just looking for affirmation that they are making the right choice.
Communication plays a key role in every single job. Even if it's just you running a business and don't have employees. You still need to have those communication skills to be able to speak clearly with your customers.
among that, we can also run into the adverse communication of the customer who knows more than us. Often they've done their research and want more info on a product that we just don't know. Generally speaking, these customers already know what they want and they are just looking for affirmation that they are making the right choice.
Communication plays a key role in every single job. Even if it's just you running a business and don't have employees. You still need to have those communication skills to be able to speak clearly with your customers.
Thanks for the answer Sean!
Iqra
Jamie Prosser
Manager - Security Engrg - App Pen Testing
10
Answers
Worthington, Ohio
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Communication. We live in a world where we communicate often in many ways both with technology and without, yet we are constantly failing at it. Wording things in a way that will get the message across with little to no questions or clarification needed is different depending on your audience. Chocolate Conversation by Rose Fass is a good book that addresses this.
The majority of the world spends their time talking, which means there are very few listeners. Learning to know when to talk and when to listen is something we do our entire lives, but it is not as easy as it sounds. Being patient enough to let the other person talk, but confident enough to politely interject when they don't stop.
Knowing what you should or shouldn't say and in what setting. Communicating something important to someone before half truths are leaked is a major issue in the corporate world. Communicating outside of your bubble is an issue. This is difficult for many people and many departments and teams. It's just not thought about.
Additionally, it's really important to know what form of communication should be used when.
If you are updating a friend or relative that does not require a response or conversation right away, write a letter (yes people still do that). It really helps to practice those communication and "writing" (not as in using a pen or pencil, rather putting words together in a way that makes sense to the reader) skills.
If you have an urgent question that needs an immediate answer, call the person. This helps you practice the verbal communication skills that are so important. We all have to talk to people or in front of people at some point in our careers. Knowing how to say what you can put on paper and being able to handle unexpected questions and interruptions is important.
If a single topic of conversation takes more than 3 texts or emails, just call.
If you want or need a response, but it is not urgent and might be longer than should be written in a text or instant message (more than a couple short sentences) send an email. Again, practicing those writing skills. If you aren't sure someone checks their email, text or message them to let them know you sent it.
These are things we all struggle with every day regardless of the career we choose. Learning how to deal with these things sooner rather than later will go along way in your career.
The majority of the world spends their time talking, which means there are very few listeners. Learning to know when to talk and when to listen is something we do our entire lives, but it is not as easy as it sounds. Being patient enough to let the other person talk, but confident enough to politely interject when they don't stop.
Knowing what you should or shouldn't say and in what setting. Communicating something important to someone before half truths are leaked is a major issue in the corporate world. Communicating outside of your bubble is an issue. This is difficult for many people and many departments and teams. It's just not thought about.
Additionally, it's really important to know what form of communication should be used when.
If you are updating a friend or relative that does not require a response or conversation right away, write a letter (yes people still do that). It really helps to practice those communication and "writing" (not as in using a pen or pencil, rather putting words together in a way that makes sense to the reader) skills.
If you have an urgent question that needs an immediate answer, call the person. This helps you practice the verbal communication skills that are so important. We all have to talk to people or in front of people at some point in our careers. Knowing how to say what you can put on paper and being able to handle unexpected questions and interruptions is important.
If a single topic of conversation takes more than 3 texts or emails, just call.
If you want or need a response, but it is not urgent and might be longer than should be written in a text or instant message (more than a couple short sentences) send an email. Again, practicing those writing skills. If you aren't sure someone checks their email, text or message them to let them know you sent it.
These are things we all struggle with every day regardless of the career we choose. Learning how to deal with these things sooner rather than later will go along way in your career.
Thanks for you answer! I may end up reading Chocolate Coversation!
Iqra
M D
Partner Manager
3
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
M’s Answer
-Being able to prioritize - if you're just entering the workforce, being able to organize yourself well, leveraging your peers and coming up with a strategy that works for you is so important. It takes time to find out what your top priorities are and how to consistently execute on them.
-Giving feedback - giving feedback to clients, XFNs, communication, holding teams accountable. It can be hard to give negative feedback, feeling like you might criticize others, even when it's in the best interest of the relationship.
-Imposter syndrome - It can take time to shed this one. Feeling comfortable and confident asking questions, especially when you’re new, is hard.
-Speed at which things evolve - keeping up and getting comfortable with change and ambiguity. Depending on where your first job is, work can move fast. This can be a hard to transition from school where you’re used to instant confirmation (A+ on a test), while at work you might have to set your own goals for yourself or it can take longer to see the output of the good work you are doing.
-Giving feedback - giving feedback to clients, XFNs, communication, holding teams accountable. It can be hard to give negative feedback, feeling like you might criticize others, even when it's in the best interest of the relationship.
-Imposter syndrome - It can take time to shed this one. Feeling comfortable and confident asking questions, especially when you’re new, is hard.
-Speed at which things evolve - keeping up and getting comfortable with change and ambiguity. Depending on where your first job is, work can move fast. This can be a hard to transition from school where you’re used to instant confirmation (A+ on a test), while at work you might have to set your own goals for yourself or it can take longer to see the output of the good work you are doing.
Thanks for the answer!
Iqra
Katie Schwartz, CCC-SLP
speech-language pathologist
10
Answers
Durham, North Carolina
Updated
Katie’s Answer
When you talk to someone about his or her job, it's a very smart thing to ask about the positives AND the negatives of the job. Many people don't talk about the negatives unless asked.
In my work, regardless of the setting, the amount of paperwork is the biggest negative. I spend as much time with online or paper documentation as I do helping people communicate more effectively. Many administrators want their own forms used for data collection, which leads to duplication of our efforts. Payors, such as insurance companies, also have their own forms.
In my work, regardless of the setting, the amount of paperwork is the biggest negative. I spend as much time with online or paper documentation as I do helping people communicate more effectively. Many administrators want their own forms used for data collection, which leads to duplication of our efforts. Payors, such as insurance companies, also have their own forms.
I hope that someone figures out a quicker and more efficient way to deal with all the paperwork! Thanks for the answer!
Iqra
Jessica Gease
Senior Manager - Customer Service
3
Answers
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Any career that you have will showcase Pro's and Con's and these will evolve as you grow personally and professionally. In my career, I have been fortunate to be a people leader and have had some amazing mentors along the way. Being able to help support development, career progression and new skills in others has been one of the most rewarding. While this is a Pro in my opinion, the Con is also there too. Many times you can see true potential in an individual, you know they have the skills to achieve the task at hand, but may not have the will to push themselves outside their comfort zone. This can challenge you as you continue to build upon your positive encouragement, inspiration, teachable moments and support. You may not always get that individual on your same side, but you know you gave your very best effort to inspire.
Thanks for the answer, Jessica!
Iqra
Karim Vedol, PMP, MBA
2
Answers
Updated
Karim’s Answer
I work in HR, but have only been in HR for a short time. For me, it's difficult getting others to think outside of an HR mindset (for example, when it comes to designing a process for employees to complete) because many of them have been doing it for a very long time. It's more of a challenge than a con, as it challenges me to learn more about why someone is thinking one way and getting them to see where I'm coming from. For someone who is new to a field, this is something that may be seen as a learning curve, but take it as a chance to bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to the job.
Hope that helps!
Hope that helps!
Thanks for the answer!
Iqra
Hannah Kruse Wike, M.S.
Learning and Development Specialist
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Hannah Kruse’s Answer
I work in the tech and I would say the most difficult part of my job are the shifting priorities of what I do week by week. I have goals that I am striving towards that align with overall Company success although the priority of those goals shift. I think ways to work with this are constant communication with my team, checking in often about what goals I should be focusing on, and how I can provide support when and where I am able.
Thanks for the answer! It seems like you've got the problem conquered, so good job!!
Iqra
Dee Lyon
Lead Supervisor
22
Answers
Hilliard, Ohio
Updated
Dee’s Answer
I love my job but at times it can be disheartening to see employees not try as hard or not care about their job. I manage a team of over a 100 people and they all have different aspirations and goals but when I see someone that doesn't put in effort or doesn't care, it makes me sad. This is the biggest con of the job. We will always have stuff that we like and dislike but I love seeing people succeed and when they don't care it breaks my heart.
Thanks for the asnwer, Dee! I think the most you can do is to be encouraging and know that you did your best!
Iqra
Jackie DeCicco
Front Desk Agent or Guest Experience Expert
40
Answers
Fort Myers, Florida
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
The cons of my job are unfortunately having to communicate with rather unpleasant guests at my hotel. There have been many experiences where guests have come to me yelling and I hadn't had a clue what their situation was. Accepting this, as it is a part of my job working in the hotel industry, sometimes those are the kind of people that make you want to go home right when you come into work because after having to deal with their difficulty, you then have to solve a lot of their problems for them that they have complained to you about.
Hi, thanks for your answer! I'm sorry people act that way but I applaud you on being able to handle it!
Iqra
Thanks! It gets made up for when you meet guests who just make you love your job :)
Jackie DeCicco
Leslie Z
Global Logistics Specialist / Supply Chain Management
4
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Leslie’s Answer
Working for a big company has a lot of pros, but one of the cons is that nothing gets done quickly. I can be talking about the same topic for months because it takes time to get the right people on the same page and then leadership has to approve things. It can be a little disheartening sometimes but having a great manager helps a lot. Even thought I don't see the end in sight, he does and he encourages me to keep pushing on things that are important.
Thanks for the answer, Leslie! Your manager sounds great!
Iqra
Diana Fashjian
Cybersecurity
1
Answer
Providence, Rhode Island
Updated
Diana’s Answer
The most difficult part of my job - most likely any job these days - is staying relevant and up to date. In the cybersecurity field, threats change every minute. Think about some of the scams that have surfaced during this pandemic - calls and texts with links to check your bank account (through a fraudulent link) for your stimulus check; emails stating that you have money from the government requesting your bank account info; etc. Bad actors and criminals take advantage of new situations - and every day is a new situation. In this industry, and again in many others, you need to constantly be up to date with the market, which includes more and different training, awareness, etc. It can be hard to make that time - but without it, you'll fall behind.
Thanks for the answer! I feel like the medical field relates as well with new diseases and discoveries every day so it's definitely important to keep learning!
Iqra
Jamie Simmons
Sr. Analyst Sales Operations - Indirect Channel
31
Answers
Plain City, Ohio
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Hi Leslie,
I work for a technology company in operations. The most difficult part of my job is also one of my most favorite parts of my job. Our company is constantly evolving and changing. We are constantly having our resources updated and new information communicated to us. Staying on top of all the newest policies, promotions and news is what is the most challenging..If you find a good way to stay organized and up to date with your resources and be sure to read all the communications that comes through, it makes it easier to stay up to date.
I work for a technology company in operations. The most difficult part of my job is also one of my most favorite parts of my job. Our company is constantly evolving and changing. We are constantly having our resources updated and new information communicated to us. Staying on top of all the newest policies, promotions and news is what is the most challenging..If you find a good way to stay organized and up to date with your resources and be sure to read all the communications that comes through, it makes it easier to stay up to date.
Thanks for the answer!
Iqra
Katya Lev
Financial center manager
119
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Katya’s Answer
Hi Lqra, the most difficult part of my job I would say is always building great teams. It’s the most rewarding part of my job as I get to work with so many different associates but it’s also the most challenging one because as a branch leader I always need to think of ways to keep them together. What I mean by it is that people have different personalities, different views, different cultures and it makes it the most interesting when they all trying to work together in the project but a,so keeping them all united does take time and patience.
As a leader- I need to always be mindful of what’s on their mind. What motivates them, how well I recognized each associate and do I provide room for growth in their daily work path. Our days are different from one to another and work does needs to have a purpose ,otherwise associates feel drained and not happy. So, making sure my team feels valued, they feel connected to one another is a daily effort that I need to keep up.
What helps me-and has helped in the past is doing research and reading books- I get new ideas, new vision and I deliver to my team. Keeping in mind thar we are all here to drive the company mission also the key component of the daily delivery to keep the team on track as to why are they here and how their daily connection delivers an impact on our client.
So, as a leader- sounds like keeping your team happy is easy but it does take a lot of work and patience.
As a leader- I need to always be mindful of what’s on their mind. What motivates them, how well I recognized each associate and do I provide room for growth in their daily work path. Our days are different from one to another and work does needs to have a purpose ,otherwise associates feel drained and not happy. So, making sure my team feels valued, they feel connected to one another is a daily effort that I need to keep up.
What helps me-and has helped in the past is doing research and reading books- I get new ideas, new vision and I deliver to my team. Keeping in mind thar we are all here to drive the company mission also the key component of the daily delivery to keep the team on track as to why are they here and how their daily connection delivers an impact on our client.
So, as a leader- sounds like keeping your team happy is easy but it does take a lot of work and patience.
awa ndiaye
Wealth Management
2
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
awa’s Answer
I would have to say learning to use my time wisely. Time management is key to juggling your your work life and social life.
Work on time management
Patience
Learn to work well with others
Be Nice!
awa recommends the following next steps:
Szabina Huttner
Technology Industry Professional
6
Answers
India
Updated
Szabina’s Answer
I work in technology operations, and I am a remote worker. I would say one of the hardest parts about my job is also one of my favorite parts. As a remote worker I don't see my colleagues often, and spend a lot of time at home and on my computer. Sometimes it can get lonely, but it also allows me a lot of freedom to create a schedule that works for me. I do have to be very cognizant of the amount of time I spending at my desk though, and ensure I get up, move around, and take time for myself. It can be very easy to let time get away from you when you are a remote worker.
It is great to know the pros and cons of a position!
~Sheila
It is great to know the pros and cons of a position!
~Sheila
Christina Ritter
Technology Industry Professional
21
Answers
Beijing, China
Updated
Christina’s Answer
The hardest part of my job is trying to prioritize all possible tasks that can be done in any given day. In many tech careers you are not given a list of activities to perform, inst your leadership is looking for results in outcomes. So trying to balance task A vs task B while focusing on long term goal C is the most difficult.
I find it helps to understand the goal of the company and leadership and attempt to align your focus. Also leaning on mentors/friends/coworkers to help guide.
I find it helps to understand the goal of the company and leadership and attempt to align your focus. Also leaning on mentors/friends/coworkers to help guide.
Andrew Moore
Governance/Quality Control
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Good afternoon. I would say the hardest part of my day-to-day is prioritizing tasks. Do I do my production, daily tasks first or do I try to tackle project work first? Becoming very good at time management is key is this scenario. This will enable you to map out your day and accomplish what needs to be done. And, communicating with others on what is to take priority can be a challenge.
Phyllis White
Technology Industry Professional
9
Answers
Richardson, Texas
Updated
Phyllis’s Answer
I'm a business process analyst for a tech company. This means that I am responsible for the processes that our customer service agents follow when they get a request from one of our customers for help with something. The most difficult part of my job is to be able to weigh whether the problem is a true process issue, a customer misunderstanding the company's policies, or an agent error. If it's the customer's misunderstanding, then it's difficult to find a nice way to explain to them that it's "them" and not "us".