Glassdoor lists Business Analysts as one of the best jobs today, however, there is no clear-cut path to becoming a Business Analyst and so you might be wondering how to change career to Business Analyst when you don’t have an IT background or any relevant experience.
To change career to Business Analysis, first research the field of Business Analysis to understand what is required. Build foundational knowledge by reading books or completing online courses. Then complete a crash course in Business Analysis and get qualified. Next, acquire relevant Business Analyst work experience, package transferable skills, and update professional assets such as CV and Linkedin profiles.
There is a lot more to consider when changing careers to become a Business Analyst. From what books, blogs, or courses to complete, to how to acquire relevant experience, and what certifications are worth it.
Prior to becoming a Business Analyst, I was a fresh academic with no real business analysis experience. In this article, I break down the steps I took to become a Senior Business Analyst within 3 months.
How to Transition into BA Role | Change Career to Business Analyst | In-Demand BA w/ Sarabjit Dahiya
Benefits of changing careers to be a business analyst
There are many benefits to becoming a business analyst, including earnings and skill-building. For the most recent information about salary, you can click on the link. These are some benefits of changing careers to be a business analyst:
Why change your career to be a business analyst?
There are many reasons to make a career change and become a business analyst. Those who want to experience a new type of work or potentially increase their earnings can make career changes and focus on business analysis. You may also change careers if the position opens in your current company and you want to try something new. Business analysis is a focus that uses skills from many other positions, so many professionals can use their abilities and experience from previous roles to improve their performance as analysts. These are some duties business analysts may perform:
How to change careers to be a business analyst
The path you take to change your career and become a business analyst can vary depending on your current role and skills. These are some steps you can follow to change careers and become a business analyst:
1. Determine if being a business analyst is right for you
The first step to becoming a business analyst is determining if its the best career path for you. Businesses analysts spend much of their time sitting at a desk and using a computer, so if you prefer an active position, you may consider something else. To determine if you want to change your career, consider the positive aspects of your current position and compare them to the benefits of becoming an analyst. Those who enjoy technology and problem-solving may be successful as business analysts.
2. Assess your current professional level and relevant skills
Consider your current professional level and compare it to that of the business analyst positions you want to apply for. Business analysts use technical, analytical and critical thinking skills to gather and evaluate information. Assess your skills to determine if you have skills that apply to the position. If you dont, consider completing skills courses to improve them before pursuing the role. Those who focus more on creative or expressive skills and less on technology may not have the right abilities for a business analysis position.
3. Learn about the fundamentals of business analysis
The fundamentals of business analysis include data gathering, solution generation, defining solutions, assessing scope and understanding modeling techniques. Consider learning more about the basics of business practices and data analysis to determine if you may enjoy working with them each day. Become more familiar with technology and data analysis tools before pursuing business analysis positions. Depending on your educational plans and goals, you may learn more about business analysis in college or university courses.
4. Pursue transition roles for becoming a business analyst
Before becoming a business analyst, you may pursue transition positions that can help you gain experience and build your skills. You can communicate with your supervisor about positions in your company that can help you transition to being a business analyst. These are some positions you may consider as steps between your current role and being a business analyst:
5. Evaluate your education and pursue the relevant degree
Depending on your current position and education, it may not be necessary to pursue additional education. Many business analysts have degrees in business management, information technology, business administration or finance. If you dont currently have an education to match the role, or your potential employers require a bachelors degree in a related subject, consider enrolling at a college or university. You may also consider pursuing additional certifications to improve your skills and credentials.
6. Communicate with your supervisor about a career change
Communicating with your supervisor about your interest in changing your career and pursuing business analysis may be helpful. Your supervisor may offer advice on how to transition smoothly. They can also inform you of potential opportunities within the company you work for and help you apply for them. Consider your relationship with your supervisor and how they may support you before approaching them with your career change questions.
7. Prepare and apply for open business analyst positions
You can ask about opportunities with your current employer or find open positions using an online job board site. Prepare your application materials and include information about your business analyst skills and relevant education and credentials. You can write a cover letter that shows youre the best candidate and highlights how your previous experience makes you a unique and valuable candidate.
Tips for changing careers to business analysis
These are some helpful tips you can use to become successful as a business analyst:
FAQ
How do I switch careers in business analyst?
- Determine if being a business analyst is right for you. …
- Assess your current professional level and relevant skills. …
- Learn about the fundamentals of business analysis. …
- Pursue transition roles for becoming a business analyst. …
- Evaluate your education and pursue the relevant degree.
Is business analyst a good career option?
Is business analyst a growing career?
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)*, employment of management analysts – including business analysts – is expected to grow 14% from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
How do I break into a business analyst?
- Get a Bachelor’s Degree. To be a business analyst you need college education. …
- Learn Basic Programming. …
- Gain experience by using case studies. …
- Learn the Tools. …
- Get Mentorship. …
- Build your resume. …
- Update Your LinkedIn Profile. …
- Connect with Recruiters.
