How to Become an Analyst?
Steps to Become an Analyst
Analysts work in many different industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, business, government, and insurance. A degree may be required depending on the field you choose to work in. Here are five steps you can take toward starting your analyst career:Earn an undergraduate degree.
Analysts usually need a bachelor's degree in business administration, math, engineering, economics, computer science, or a related discipline. Focus on courses in data mining, finance, calculus, communications, and analytics. Earning a master's degree can help make you more desirable to employers.
Take additional software and programming courses.
Analysts work primarily with computers, so you should be very familiar with industry software, analysis programs, and other programs like word processing software. Analysts often act as connections between a company's IT department and its more general operations. Focus on honing your computer programming knowledge to help prepare you for a career as an analyst.
Familiarize yourself with industry and employer requirements.
Some employers may require an industry-specific certification, like the one from the International Institute of Business Analysis. Many businesses look for analysts with excellent critical thinking, attention to detail, problem-solving, and communication skills. Companies also often look for analysts with leadership or management skills. Look at job descriptions for analysts in your industry to learn more about the skills and qualifications employers in your field want the most.
Find an experienced, successful mentor.
Learning from one or more experienced analysts can help you increase your skills. It also gives you a contact that you can call on when you need advice or a recommendation letter. Finding an internship in a field that interests you is an ideal way for you to start your career as an analyst. After you finish your internship, stay in touch with your mentor so that they'll be willing to help you when needed.
Apply for analyst jobs and prepare for your interview.
When applying for an analyst job, highlight your educational background and accomplishments along with soft skills like critical thinking. Also, emphasize your technical skills and be prepared to share examples of reports that you've compiled. Memorize some statistics that you provided. During your analyst interview, be ready to talk about how the information you reported helped an organization increase its profits or expand its customer base. Be sure to talk about your previous achievements whenever possible. Emphasize your ability to work independently and research the finances, products, and performances of businesses.
Analyst Career Path
Analyst
Senior Analyst
Analyst IV
Salary Trajectory
Analyst Career Path
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