Work idiot?

[Ukrainebaby23]

In a WhatsApp work group for mutual support questions.

Someone asked a question which is my specialist subject, so I offered suggestion but asked for more info. Basically my comments were totally ignored and other non specialists offered advice which was taken.

I feel like a fool, I don't know if my advice was actually correct or not, but I'd love to know, I defo won't offer advice again.

Can't get specific of the subject as it would be outing, and a small world. But am currently sitting tearfully wondering how to get my big girl pants on and face colleagues.

Background, I'm not great at the job and I dont shout out that I am, but I generally give appropriate advice. I've been having trouble motivating myself for work anyway as I find it really tough, do dunno which way to turn. Don't have any real work friends.
Often work alone due to nature of job.

Having a tough time in other parts of my life, just depressing my work colleagues think I'm am idiot or nasty, I'm neither.

If it's your specialist subject why wouldn't you know if your advice was correct or not? I don't think I'd give advice unless I was happy that it was correct.

But, having said that, I really don't think this is a big deal. I think it's become more of an issue for you than it will be for anyone else. People offered advice, the person asking took some of it. It's not a comment on you or your capabilities, it's really not.

It's not a big deal but I'm also a bit confused as to why you are a specialist but are unsure if the advice you gave is correct.

Some advice from me. Step away from work WhatsAp groups - especially evenings and week-ends.

Are you going out and doing anything nice tonight or tomorrow? Focus on that instead.

Don’t take it personally people tend to pick the answer they like and want to hear rather than the factual correct one

It's not an exact science and sometimes its down to an opinion. Hard to explain without revealing the subject in question, but imagine is this plant type A, B or C from a picture.

This happens all the time! Especially on Mumsnet 😁

Someone's detailed, knowledgeable reply is ignored, usually because it's not what the person wants to hear. People asking for advice want easy, quick-fixes that are aligned with their inclinations. E.g. if someone wants to know how to get clearer looking skin, they will often prefer to hear about a miracle skin cream than be told to drink more water, eat a healthier diet and exercise loads.