Comments on: Dear STC: I Keep Making Mistakes At My Job. What Should I Do?

By: shrinkingthecamel

shrinkingthecamel — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:35:19 +0000

I like your idea of partnering with someone else to get through… Makes us kind of dependent on each other, huh?

By: shrinkingthecamel

shrinkingthecamel — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:34:37 +0000

Maureen – Has anyone told you yet that you are really good at this? Your HR experience obviously is boosting my site here. These are some great tips for someone struggling with attention to detail at work. Thanks!

By: Michael Holmes

Michael Holmes — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 20:03:45 +0000

I agree with Chris (and Bradley). There are obviously other things he’s gifted at. It make no sense to to work in your weaknesses, we find our best success working in our strengths.

By: Chris Cree

Chris Cree — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 11:16:17 +0000

Most people I know who struggle with details tend to be very good with people and relationships. Shifting into a sales position could be a potential fit.

The key is to start building a team. I’d start by getting an assistant or partnering with someone who is very good with details. That way their strength compensates for your weakness and your strengths will cover theirs.

Like Bradley said though, I am certain you have gifts that you can tap into and become very successful. If you can’t find a job that is centered around your gifts then perhaps you can start your own business. Then you can focus on what you do best and outsource (or partner) with folks who are strong where you are weak.

By: Maureen

Maureen — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 17:18:43 +0000

Having worked all my professional life as a writer and editor (the last 24+ in publishing for human resources professionals), I know that detail matters. Some of the writers I managed sometimes had difficulty with detail and the impression left was sloppiness at best. We would sit down and look at what might be done to reduce the possibility of missing something important or not catching those errors that caused problems.

Perhaps a few of the following might be helpful to Bob:

1. Is it possible for you to team with someone you trust, someone who can provide that second set of eyes you might need?

2. Lists might help. When you are given a task, break the task down into its parts. Do those and check off as you complete each one.

3. Is there a group in your area for people with ADD/ADHD who meet to talk about such issues as you face? Don’t underestimate what can be learned by joining such a community. Many may have tips for you that help you keep your job.

4. Take a look at your work conditions. What is distracting that you might avoid or remove as a source of influence?

5. Talk confidentially with your HR office. You might be directed to an employee assistance program that could in turn direct you to an organization that assists people with ADD/ADHD. Moreover, it might be possible for you to be given a reasonable accommodation. Your HR office will know about the latter.