Why Strong Business Analysts Are Uncomfortable – and Why That’s a Skill

Why Strong Business Analysts Are Uncomfortable – and Why That’s a Skill

Strong Business Analysts are often described as “difficult”, “too opinionated”, or “uncomfortable”.
At the same time, they are the ones who prevent bad decisions, challenge weak assumptions, and protect products from slow, expensive failure.

This session is about the uncomfortable side of seniority in business analysis – and why it is not a personality flaw, but a sign of professional maturity.

We will explore why experienced BAs naturally become less convenient as they grow, how competence can unintentionally turn into toxic behavior, and where the line lies between professional assertiveness and destructiveness.

In this session, we will discuss:

– why strong Business Analysts are often perceived as uncomfortable by teams and stakeholders;
– how business-oriented thinking increases conflict – and why that conflict is often necessary;
– where skilled BAs cross the line into toxicity without noticing it;
– how to challenge decisions, assumptions, and priorities without damaging trust and relationships;
– how to remain an “uncomfortable” professional while staying effective, respected, and mentally healthy.

This talk is for senior and lead Business Analysts who want to grow their influence and be recognized not as “uncomfortable”, but as high-impact professionals whose opinions matter and whom teams actively want to work with.