You know this persona: the business analyst who speaks up in the room, with the simple truths, ready to withstand the objections and the complaints from a room full of people that doesn’t get what they’re saying. Until they do, and then they (imaginary) fist pump.
This is a daydream.
It’s a treacherous daydream.
There will be a few exceptions that prove the rule, but in general, what’s true is that organisations need business analysts willing to facilitate.
Facilitating the change others seek to make happen.
Willing to lead a line that resonates with the stakeholder group that they care enough about to facilitate.
There could be a disconnect here. It’s possible that you could be feeling this way today, but there’s a chance you might not be. The version of yourself that you’re projecting to others runs layers deep, but it can’t possibly be the whole of you, all of the time.
A business analyst professional plays a role, doing their best possible work, regardless of the project or the stakeholder or the customer.
When Kulula Air Steward Adrian Thomas delivered his version of the pre-flight safety demonstration, hilariously, with a uniquely South African twist, it was a brilliant act, not a unique performance. After all, a version of it happened on every flight.
When a trainer improves his delegates prospects, day-after-day, by sharing information, he actually might be a brilliant teacher, but it’s more likely he’s simply presenting his material.
When the team of waitresses and waiters at Spur celebrate you with the Happy Birthday Song, they’re doing their job, not disclosing.
And that’s okay because disclosing isn’t what makes things better. Disclosing is saved for your closest family and your best friends, not your stakeholders.
Find your ego strength. You’re needed tomorrow.