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Tips for building a career in data analytics

February 16, 2021 · 2 min read · By ASU CareerCatalyst

Demand for data analysts has been steadily rising.Data is being valued more now, especially during the past several years as an increasing number of companies, government agencies, non-profits, universities, etc. recognize the benefits it can bring, when analyzed properly. Depending on the job title, demand, and organization, a Data Analyst could earn between $77,000 and almost $220,000 annually.

That’s a significant incentive to dive into this lucrative career path, but while about 40 percent of the positions demand a master’s degree or higher, that means almost two-thirds of the opportunities do not. In fact, you may be able to obtain data analytics jobs with a data analytics certification.

Earning your Data Analytics and Visualization Certificate from Arizona State University is a fast and powerful way to get in on the ground floor of this blossoming career path.Offered by the #1 university in innovation, this course allows you to go at your own pace.

What Is the Career Path of a Data Analyst?

There are many potential career paths one could take within data analysis and visualization. You could pursue a career (in/as a):

  • Business Analyst

  • Actuary (analyzing mortality, sickness, accident, disability, etc. rates to create profitability tables for insurance companies)

  • Budget Analyst

  • Compensation and Benefits Analyst (often for human resources)

  • Corporate Strategy Analyst

  • Management Reporting

  • Sales Analyst

  • Fraud Analyst

  • Credit Analytics (credit reporting, credit monitoring, etc.)

  • Social Media Data Analyst

  • Machine Learning Analyst

  • Business Product Analyst

How to Start Building a Career in Data Analytics?

  1. Begin by developing an analytical mindset in everything you do.

    Essentially, many of us base our opinions and conclusions regarding a variety of topics on emotions. Leave that mindset behind and focus instead on data.

    Don’t assume anything. Avoid jumping to conclusions based on your opinions, beliefs, or preconceived notions. Instead, analyze the data in every aspect of your life. Seek out objective data (data that is not subject to opinion and will be the same for everyone, regardless of bias).

    Challenge yourself daily to continually approach everything in your life from an analytical perspective.

  2. Study how analytics are used in your chosen industry.

    Whether you work in hospitality, marketing, medical, construction, or any other industry, do your homework. Research how analytics is being used to propel the industry forward.

    See if there are ways you could leverage data in your current occupation to improve results. This will lay the foundation to building your future career.

  3. Learn to code.

    Today’s most commonly used tools in data analysis are SQL, R, Python, and Excel. Learning one (like SQL) actually makes it much easier to learn others as well.

    The best way to learn to code is through a guided program, Arizona State University’s Data Analytics and Visualization Certification courses guide you in understanding and using the fundamentals of SQL and Python.

    Keep in mind that coding and those tools are constantly evolving, so avoid the temptation to jump on the latest bandwagon, but rather remain focused on building your knowledge base (which will last for years).

  4. Develop the right skills.

    The most effective way to do this is to understand the importance of organization, communication, project management, and critical thinking.

    If you’re currently lacking in one or all of these areas, begin by strengthening these soft areas in your life. Other skills you will need will be taught in a comprehensive course, such as the one available through ASU.

  5. Build your portfolio.

    Most people have nothing for their portfolio when just starting out, but that doesn’t mean you can’t build one.

    Begin by working with your company’s data. Seek out current analysts and pick their brain. Use your skills and new abilities to help problem solve for the company.

    Kaggle is a crowdsourcing platform where companies put out data challenges to solve. If you don’t win, that’s fine, because your analysis can be used as part of your new portfolio.

How Can I Learn More About Becoming a Data Analyst?

Enroll in a quality certification program. Arizona State University offers a comprehensive, 4-course intensive certification program that allows you to go at your own pace. So, in a matter of weeks, you could have the skills (and certification) necessary to launch your new career.

Check out ASU’s Data Analytics and Visualization Certification program now. Within a few months, you could be pursuing a new career with tremendous potential for growth.

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