3 answers
Caleb
Student
Enugu, Nigeria
1
Question
Asked
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How can I get my first data analysis job?
How can I get a job as a data analyst?
I have a degree in computer science and I have Google Data Analytics Certificate and have experience as a website designer and volunteer data analyst with an NGO.
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3 answers
Marcos Franco
Technology/Photography
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Marcos’s Answer
You are on the right track. I'd suggest that you start by looking for trainee positions, as those are designed to prepare participants for leadership roles in the corporations.
Also, technology matters. Try to add new stuff to your skillset. For instance: PowerBI is super hot right now. So is Tableau, but I'd stick to learning PowerBI initially.
Other things that you might want to learn:
- Scripting languages, such as Python.
- Databases (SQL and NoSQL) are extremely important.
- Data Preparing/Cleansing, data integration and/or ETL. Alteryx and PowerBI (Power Query) are 2 tools I'd recommend.
- Statistics are a vital part of data analysis.
Certificates are important in terms of showing you master the tech involved in the process. But knowing the process is equally as important as tech. What I mean by that is if you want to work in finance, learning about finance is extremely important. If you want to work for an airliner, learning about the airline industry is important, and so on. There are industry-focused publications and magazines that might give you a glimpse into the industry of your interest and what kind of knowledge you should acquire to bring value to the roles you are willing to apply to.
Also, technology matters. Try to add new stuff to your skillset. For instance: PowerBI is super hot right now. So is Tableau, but I'd stick to learning PowerBI initially.
Other things that you might want to learn:
- Scripting languages, such as Python.
- Databases (SQL and NoSQL) are extremely important.
- Data Preparing/Cleansing, data integration and/or ETL. Alteryx and PowerBI (Power Query) are 2 tools I'd recommend.
- Statistics are a vital part of data analysis.
Certificates are important in terms of showing you master the tech involved in the process. But knowing the process is equally as important as tech. What I mean by that is if you want to work in finance, learning about finance is extremely important. If you want to work for an airliner, learning about the airline industry is important, and so on. There are industry-focused publications and magazines that might give you a glimpse into the industry of your interest and what kind of knowledge you should acquire to bring value to the roles you are willing to apply to.
Many thanks, Marcos.
Tableau was part of the certificate program I did, R language as well. Do you suggest I focus on Power BI and Python instead?
Prior to getting into data analytics, I read that it's either Tableau or Power BI and R or Python.
I'm really grateful for the response. Thanks a bunch.
Caleb
Thomas Leach
Consulting and Sales
1
Answer
Norman, Oklahoma
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Create a LinkedIn Account and Search Jobs there :)
Thank you!
Caleb
Olawale Ahmed Alamu
Data Scientist
2
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Olawale’s Answer
To land your first data analyst job, emphasize your strong foundation, including your **computer science degree**, **Google Data Analytics Certificate**, and **volunteer experience** as a data analyst for an NGO. Tailor your résumé to highlight relevant skills like SQL, Python/R, Excel, and data visualization tools such as Tableau or Power BI. Showcase the impact of your volunteer work, quantifying achievements where possible, and align your application with the job description to stand out for entry-level roles like Junior Data Analyst or Business Analyst.
Build a strong portfolio by creating projects based on publicly available datasets to demonstrate your skills. Include diverse projects like dashboards, predictive models, and SQL analysis, and leverage your website design expertise to build an interactive online portfolio. This not only highlights your technical skills but also sets you apart by presenting your work in a professional and visually appealing way. Use this portfolio to engage recruiters, hiring managers, and your LinkedIn network.
Finally, focus on networking and continuous learning. Attend meetups, webinars, or hackathons to connect with professionals in the field. Prepare for interviews by practicing how to explain your projects and their impact to stakeholders, and refine your skills in high-demand areas like Power BI or cloud platforms. Combining strategic applications, a strong portfolio, and networking will position you as a competitive candidate for your first data analyst role.
Build a strong portfolio by creating projects based on publicly available datasets to demonstrate your skills. Include diverse projects like dashboards, predictive models, and SQL analysis, and leverage your website design expertise to build an interactive online portfolio. This not only highlights your technical skills but also sets you apart by presenting your work in a professional and visually appealing way. Use this portfolio to engage recruiters, hiring managers, and your LinkedIn network.
Finally, focus on networking and continuous learning. Attend meetups, webinars, or hackathons to connect with professionals in the field. Prepare for interviews by practicing how to explain your projects and their impact to stakeholders, and refine your skills in high-demand areas like Power BI or cloud platforms. Combining strategic applications, a strong portfolio, and networking will position you as a competitive candidate for your first data analyst role.
Thank you so much Olawale. I appreciate the kind advice.
Caleb