Tom Threlfall, CFA

Analytics often involves technical terminology and acronyms that can confuse stakeholders. To combat this, make it a habit to clarify jargon when communicating. Provide definitions or use simpler language to explain complex terms. Ensuring your audience understands the terminology prevents misinterpretations and enhances the accessibility and impact of your analysis. By taking the time to clarify technical concepts, you can effectively convey your message and insights, regardless of the audience's familiarity with the subject matter. This practice demonstrates a commitment to clear, effective communication - a valuable skill for any professional working with data and analytics.

Embracing constructive criticism is essential for professional growth. When provided feedback, view it as a chance to learn, not a personal attack. Analyze the critique objectively to identify patterns where your communication may falter, such as use of jargon, presentation structure, or data visualization. Approaching feedback with an open mindset can provide valuable insights to refine your approach and enhance the clarity and impact of your analytical work. Embracing criticism, rather than resisting it, demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation - highly valued qualities in the workplace.

After presenting an analysis, it's important to solicit input from colleagues on the delivery, clarity, and comprehensiveness of the message. An open and receptive mindset is essential, as others may provide valuable perspectives that the presenter overlooked. This feedback process can highlight areas for improvement, such as simplifying complex ideas or emphasizing key takeaways that resonate with the audience. By embracing this approach, professionals can continuously refine their communication abilities and enhance the impact of their presentations. Maintaining a growth-oriented mindset is a hallmark of effective communicators committed to ongoing learning and development.

When faced with a choice, I carefully weigh the pros and cons of each potential solution, employing deductive reasoning to apply general principles or inductive reasoning to draw conclusions from specific observations. By thoroughly considering the consequences of each option, I'm able to make the most informed decision possible - one that not only stands up to scrutiny, but also advances my professional objectives. This systematic approach to decision-making ensures that my choices are grounded in sound logic and serve to propel me closer to my defined goals.

Weighing things. How do we weigh things in particular complex problems...? Do the work, check the numbers and get multiple opionions and then the person responsible has to make the decision. The answer is there is no singular answer and in a work context its important that big decisions are measured for effectiveness to see 'how good an organisation is, or decision maker is'.

Data Data Data. As a numbers guy, i think this needs to be weighted against 'logic' and 'gut' because a lot of data tends to be backward looking (by definition). That said, robust data gathering is the foundation for effective logical reasoning. When faced with a complex problem, I first identify the key information needed to understand the issue fully, collecting data from diverse sources and consulting subject matter experts. By critically analyzing this data for patterns, inconsistencies, and potential biases, I ensure the accuracy and completeness of the evidence underlying my logical approach. This meticulous data gathering process is crucial, as the quality of my reasoning can only be as strong as the information I have to work with.