Data Analyst career is a great choice. If you are thinking of getting a data analyst job, there are certain steps you can take today to secure your position in the field and grow your career and income in the coming years. According to many experts, job opportunities for data analysts are expected to increase by more than 20% through 2022, which means that now is an excellent time to start working toward your future as a valuable member of this fast-growing field. Here’s how you can become a data analyst and secure your career in an exciting industry with room to grow over the next several years.
1. Seek Paid or Unpaid Internships
Data analyst internship is a great way to learn more about the field and start making professional connections that can lead to full-time employment opportunities. It’s also often where fresh graduates land their first job in their chosen industry. Internships allow you to test out different career paths, including whether it’s even worth pursuing one at all. You might find that you don’t like working in a particular industry after all, but interning can help you figure that out before it’s too late. Plus, if nothing else, it looks good on your resume!
2. Get Certified
Becoming a certified data analyst will allow you to enter exciting positions with companies that rely on critical numbers and statistics, from banks and healthcare providers to manufacturing companies. There are numerous certification options available, but it’s best to choose one that is relevant to your career path and offers industry-standard content.
3. Professional Training
A data analyst training program can help you get into the desired field quickly, but you will want to keep a couple of things in mind. First, make sure that the training is facilitated by qualified professionals, possibly with local and international exposure, this will tell on the quality of content you will receive. Second, check out reviews from previous attendees—if it seems like most people didn’t enjoy their experience or learned very little from attending, it might be worth looking elsewhere. Finally, don’t forget about networking! Attending training is great because it gives you access to other people who are enthusiastic about the same skill as you and who may even have started working in that field.
4. Network with Professionals in the Industry
The best people for advice on how to break into the data analytics industry are those who have worked within it—so if you’re serious about becoming a data analyst, it’s worth talking with current analysts or hiring managers. You can find useful contacts at relevant events or communities or via an online professional platform like LinkedIn.
5. Take up Side Data Analysis Projects
The best way to break into a new career is often through your projects. Instead of simply applying for jobs, research industries, and companies you’re interested in, then work on small datasets that can show your level of knowledge.
