Description

If we asked your closest associates to describe you, what would they say? Which adjectives would they use and why? What would they say are your strengths and weaknesses[RO1] ? Approximately 500 words.*

                My closest associates would describe me as someone who understands how to utilize all of my strengths and weaknesses to apply Einstein’s “Three rules of work” to business analysis. What does that mean exactly? Well, as a business analyst I am hired to solve people’s problems through analytical thinking, innovation, teamwork, and clear communication. [RO2] 

Rule One: Out of clutter, find simplicity.

          My colleagues would cite my strong, no-nonsense analytical abilities and curiosity in support of this rule.  They would point to my strengths of examining a problem from every angle, using my curiosity to test alternative solutions and leveraging my rational thinking to dissect the purpose of a project down to its core. These strengths, they’d point out, allowed me to create a more straightforward solution design and discuss my findings and approach in a digestible way to my peers to achieve success.

Rule Two: From discord, find harmony.   

                My colleagues consistently say that my honesty and compassion has allowed me to develop relationships with some of the most difficult people due to my ability to put myself in someone else’s shoes, as well as give unbiased honest perspective. Projects are not a “one-man show;” they involve stakeholders with varying perspectives that often leads to several disagreements which must be carefully managed to ensure success.  In these situations, I am the one who is first to mediate discourse, bring integrity to the table and minimize backbiting. These positive traits, and my willingness to confront problems head-on to unearth unseen opportunities, have enabled project successes by ensuring there’s a unified team approach, made up of diverse thoughts and opinions that are all discussed to work toward a common goal.

Rule Three: In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity

                Entering the unknown of a new project and creating a solution becomes a balancing act of creating innovative ideas, managing stakeholders and having endless endurance to overcome the many obstacles that come your way. Often, this can also mean you have to honestly admit when you need help. Over the years, I have learned that life is one large never ending project and I am the prototype in daily development trying to fix the greatest adversity within myself.  I had my fair share of horrible life experiences that challenged my resilience, my confidence, and trust in others, so much so that I was lucky even to graduate. My relentless nature got me through all those years and allowed me to get an opportunity at a top investment bank like Morgan Stanley but what many people won’t tell you is the habits you create to survive will no longer serve you when it’s time to thrive. Working on negative talk and learning to trust individuals to help through complex situations not only at work but also in life is something I still struggle with to this day.