Landing Your Data Analyst Role in The Current Job Market: 5 Proven Tips for Job Seekers.
So, I finished my first data analyst course a couple of months ago, and you wouldn’t believe what happened. Within a week, I landed my first job and became Senior Vice President of Analytics at my organization. Scratch that, I actually didn’t get my first job in a week, nor did I become senior VP of analytics. However, I have learned a few job search tips and tricks that can speed up your job search.
With many of you nearing the end of your studies and certifications, the next natural step is to embark on a job search journey. However, pursuing a job demands employing proper techniques to succeed. In this article, I will share tips that can help you navigate your job search successfully. Without further ado, let’s try to experience the first trick.
Tip #1 Gain Practical Experience
This is probably the first challenge that confronts every beginner in the job market. It’s like the puzzle of what came first, the chicken or the egg. The challenge here is getting experience. When you finish your studies, companies typically expect you to have done some kind of internship. This serves as a starting point. If you lack an internship, you may consider the KPMG Virtual Data Analyst Internship program.
In my own experience, I joined the KPMG Virtual Data Analyst Internship on Forage to gain work experience. It was like stepping into real data analysis situations, not just studying theories. I worked on a couple of projects that were given to me on the platform, which helped improved my skills. During the internship, I learned about different parts of data analysis, like proper data cleaning and visualization, and how to properly present insights that were derived from data to stakeholders.
This hands-on experience helped me see how data can guide smart business choices. Overall, the KPMG Virtual Data Analyst Internship on Forage gave me a semblance of what it might look like to have an actual experience. It helped me become better prepared for a data analysis career.
Tip #2 Build a Good Resume
Having a solid resume is the difference between receiving a positive response and facing rejection. If your resume isn’t up to par, you’re less likely to hear back from potential employers. But the encouraging part is that you can always enhance your resume.
When creating a resume, you can choose between two strategies: a chronological resume or a functional resume. A chronological resume arranges your work experiences based on when they happened, with the latest ones on top. However, this strategy suits those aiming to showcase an extensive history or career advancement. It might not be ideal for beginners or individuals switching careers, as they might lack direct work experience.
On the other hand, a functional resume emphasizes your skills and abilities over your work experience. Given that you might not have much work experience at this point, this strategy allows you to spotlight your skills effectively. For someone like me, this is the strategy I recommend for beginners without work experience.
Once you’ve chosen your resume approach, the next step is to refine your language and wording. Keep your descriptions concise and clear. Utilize bullet points to outline your skills and accomplishments. When discussing your volunteer experiences, briefly highlight your individual achievements. Enrich your language with action verbs such as “championed,” “drove,” “optimized,” and others. Remember, it’s important to showcase your strengths boldly and convincingly.
Tip #3 Send Out More Applications.
When you’re starting as an entry-level data analyst, it becomes a numbers game. The more job applications you submit, the better your odds of landing a job. People often suggest that you should assess if a position is a perfect match before applying. But honestly, there’s little to lose if you apply for jobs that might not seem like a perfect fit. Of course, apply thoughtfully. Adapt your resume accordingly. If you meet a significant percentage of the criteria, go for it. Don’t hold back. Give it a shot.
Now, where do you find these jobs to apply for? I’ll admit, there might not be an abundance of data analyst positions available. So, it’s wise to broaden your horizons. Look into related fields. For instance, the skills you’ve acquired as a data analyst can also translate well into a business analyst role. This expands your pool of potential jobs and lets you explore a broader range of skills.
While it might be disappointing at the beginning not to land a data analyst job right away, what you need to realize is that there’s always a room to grow. And that’s exactly what I did. So, stay open-minded. Don’t hesitate to explore new avenues.
If data analysis is truly your goal, opportunities will present themselves, even if it takes a different route to get there.
Tip #4 Network Wisely
Here’s the deal: networking smartly increases your chances of landing a job. When someone vouches for you, your job prospects improve. But how do you make sure that someone speaks up for you? There are various methods, and LinkedIn happens to be one of them. Attending events is another avenue. Becoming part of communities and groups is yet another way, as is reaching out to people you’re already acquainted with. Regardless of the path you choose — or even if you mix and match — remember to consistently showcase your skills to every professional connection you make.
It’s crucial to let them know about your capabilities and skills, without waiting for them to ask. This isn’t about bragging; it’s about making yourself visible to others. For instance, if you join a community, don’t remain silent. Contribute something, no matter how small, to help someone. When you reach out via email, ensure it carries value. At events, don’t shy away in the background. Lastly, don’t forget to inform people you already know that you’re on the lookout for a job. It takes just one person with connections to an employer to open a potential door for you.
Remember, effective networking isn’t about quantity but quality. It’s not about just collecting contacts; it’s about building meaningful relationships that can help you grow professionally.
Tip #5 Trust the Process
Let’s be real — job hunting is tough, stressful, and draining. But here’s the key: trust in the process and don’t let it overwhelm you. Sure, you might face a heap of rejections, but remember, one “yes” can wipe away all those “no’s.” That’s where your focus needs to be.
And here’s a secret: don’t forget to relax and enjoy the process. Team up with a friend who shares your industry interests and chat about the latest buzz. If possible, reconnect with or establish relationships within your field. If an old classmate holds a role you’re curious about, why not invite them for a drink? Cherish these moments.
Because job hunting is just a phase. Like every other phase in life, it’ll come and go. And you know who’ll be standing on the other side? You!