Data analysts and business analysts are two different career paths with similar goals of helping a company function more efficiently. On one hand, they’re both roles that help unclutter data so that it can be analyzed and used more effectively. With data being such an important part of most companies these days, many businesses are relying on data analysts to get them through the day. And as with any other job, if you work as a data analyst you need to know what sets you apart from your colleagues and why anyone should want to hire you instead of another candidate.
What is a data analyst?
A data analyst is a specialist within a company who helps the rest of the team with the data. As an analyst, you’ll be responsible for working out what data is relevant and how it can be used. Essentially, you’ll be the one to assist other members of the business with their data needs. You’ll often find yourself helping with basic tasks, like finding out how much data was generated in a certain period or taking care of manual data entry.
Business Analyst
A business analyst answers questions like, “What do we need to do to achieve our goals?” A business analyst has a distinct role across a company, unlike a data analyst who may be responsible for a certain aspect of the business. Once this is determined, the business analyst will help with determining how to achieve these goals. This can include determining what equipment is needed, determining what skills are required, and determining any legal issues that may come up.
Working as a data analyst
If you’re looking to work as a data analyst, there are a few things you’ll first want to do. Firstly, you’ll want to brush up on your statistics and learn as much as you can about the data you’ll be working with. You’ll also want to ask yourself some key questions to see if data analysis is right for you. What are your strengths as a data analyst? What do you enjoy doing? Where do you see yourself in the future? Once you’ve figured out a few key things, it’s time to find a job. Look through Indeed, CareerBuilder, and other job sites to see what’s available in your field and your area. When you find a position you like, start sending in your application. You’ll want to make sure you include specific things about your experience and skills.
Working as a business analyst
If you’re interested in a career as a business analyst, there are some key differences you’ll want to keep in mind. Once this is determined, the business analyst will help with determining how to achieve these goals. This can include determining what equipment is needed, determining what skills are required, and determining any legal issues that may come up.
Why You Should be an Analyst?
Analysts are responsible for helping to unclutter data so that it can be analyzed and used more effectively. They perform a variety of tasks, including data entry, creating reports, and handling administrative duties. Data analysts are often tasked with creating the data pipeline that feeds a business’s system. While most companies are outsourcing their data analysis work, there are still many roles where analysts are focused on performing analysis work in-house, such as in business intelligence (BI) departments, or in support functions such as customer service or accounting.
Key Takeaway
It can be difficult to know where to begin as a data analyst or business analyst. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure you land a job. First, brush up on your statistics and learn as much as you can about the data you’ll be working with. Next, ask yourself some key questions to see if data analysis is right for you and your personality. If you’re interested in working as a business analyst, you’ll likely want to learn more about strategy and accounting. Data analysts, however, often have a strong statistics background, so you may want to focus more on data management and data engineering.
