(S&T+ET)What is the most difficult part of your job? What do you hate doing?

Based on previous WSO threads, here are some insights into the most difficult and hated tasks in S&T (Sales & Trading) and related roles:

Difficult and Hated Tasks in S&T:

1. Networking and Setting Up Calls:

   • Interns often find it frustrating to spend a lot of time setting up calls and networking, especially when they can't walk around the office to chat with people directly. This can be time-consuming and less productive.

2. Repetitive and Low-Value Tasks:

   • Tasks like making summaries that add no value and are unlikely to be read by anyone can be particularly demotivating. These tasks are often seen as busy work.

Most Difficult Routine Tasks:

1. Data Analysis and Conversion:
   • Handling large datasets and converting them into usable formats can be extremely challenging. For example, one user mentioned having to smooth and convert 3,800 rows of mixed yearly/monthly subscription data to monthly data, which required working 38 hours straight.

Most Grueling Tasks:

1. Physical Labor:

   • Some tasks involve significant physical effort, such as carrying heavy items up multiple flights of stairs or working in extreme weather conditions. For instance, an intern had to carry 40-50 fire extinguishers weighing 30 lbs each up a four-story parking garage.

2. Manual Labor in Harsh Conditions:

   • Tasks like hosing down and sweeping a roof in over 100-degree weather for several days can be extremely grueling and physically exhausting.

These insights highlight the variety of challenges faced in S&T roles, from tedious administrative tasks to physically demanding labor.

Sources: WORST Task You've Been Given at Work?, WORST Task You've Been Given at Work?, Are the tasks given to Summer Analysts difficult?, Any summer S&T interns on IB forum willing to discuss their tasks so far?, Struggling Starting as an Analyst