Become an Entry-Level Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is someone who collects, cleanses, and organizes raw data to make it useful for businesses. Data analysis includes different techniques and  methods used to assess the extracted information. These techniques include using advanced computerized models, removing corrupted data, assessing the quality and meaning of data, performing final analysis,  and, finally, presenting it to other members of the team.  

If  you’ve just started your journey in the field of data analytics, then  this article is for you. This article is going to discuss the main  points you need to be mindful of to make the best of a career as a Data Analyst. We’re also going to cover Data Analyst salaries so you know what to expect.

What Skills Do Data Analysts Need to Have?

Math: If you don’t get along with math, then choosing data analysis as a career could be challenging for you.  

People sometimes wonder, “where do we apply algebra in real life?” Well, data analytics is a field where you’ll constantly apply mathematical concepts such as algebra, calculus, and statistics.  

There’s an ongoing debate on the importance of math in data analysis. Some Data Analysts say that it’s not required, while others in the field believe that it’s at the heart of data analysis. Either way, if you’re already comfortable with math, there’s a good chance that you’ll start loving numbers even more after getting into data analysis.  

In this profession, you’ll rely on statistical analysis and data interpretation, among others. So you should be prepared with the following math skills:  

• Linear algebra
• Regression
• Probability theory
• Numerical analysis

Programming: Learning to code will help you perform complex functions on large amounts of data very quickly (and accurately). Some programming languages commonly used by Data Analysts are R, Python, C++, Java, MATLAB, PHP, and SQL.  

Pronounced “sequel,” SQL is a programming language designed to maintain data in a relational database. Programming helps Data Analysts in so many ways. For instance, if there are certain functions you use repeatedly, which happens a lot in data analysis, you can automate the processes to minimize your work and increase productivity.  

Statistics: This is an important skill to have for an aspiring Data Analyst or data scientist. You'll often rely on statistical concepts to make sense of the data in a real-world context.  

Microsoft Excel: Companies assume that Data Analysts are good at MS Excel, so it’s important to master it. If you want to excel in this career, then you should be an advanced Excel user that knows your way around writing functions, building pivot tables and presenting information in charts and graphs.  

Clear Communication: It’s not just a numbers game. To be a strong Data Analyst and get promoted up the ranks, you need to master more than just technical skills. If you’re unable to present your views to your clientele or fellow analysts, then all of your hard work will go unused.  

Education Options

In order to land your first Data Analyst job, you’ll need to prove you can sort and cleanse data with the best of them. That means you need formal training and a polished portfolio to show that you’re up to the challenge.  

Fortunately, there are now many online courses available that you can take from the comfort of your home, and are specifically geared to prepare you for career success. Online platforms like our data analytics and data science courses will help you familiarize yourself with the concepts that you need to know to start your career.

You actually don’t need a formal degree to get hired as an entry-level Data Analyst. You can take an online Data Analytics bootcamp to learn all the skills you’ll need for the job.  

If you do opt for a four-year degree, then a BA in math, computer science  or finance will prepare you well for a career in data analysis.  

Typical Department Structure

In large companies, you may be part of a larger team of analysts. It’s pretty typical to start as a Junior Data Analyst or Analyst I, and work your way up to Analyst II or Senior Data Analyst.  If  you’ve got high ambitions and the leadership skills to match, you could  eventually go on to become a Chief Technology Officer or Chief Finance  Officer.  

Sectors Where Data Analysts Are in Demand

Sales: Sales data needs to be analyzed to recognize the factors that drive revenue growth. Data Analysts  or sales analysts are always in demand in this sector. They evaluate  and identify trends and patterns in sales by analyzing industry data  from within a company and outside as well.

Market Research: Data Analysts  are usually employed by companies before launching new products to see  if the products or services are going to be liked by the target  customers. To do this, Data Analysts use predictive analysis, a type of analysis that predicts what would  happen shortly after a product is launched. For instance, what would  happen to sales if so and so happens? This will help the company save time and money.  

Healthcare: Through data analysis, hospital authorities keep track of a patients’ history, which helps in an effective diagnosis. Data Analysts supervise hospital data management and analytics. As a healthcare Data Analyst,  you will be involved in retrieving and organizing healthcare data,  analyzing the data to help hospitals deliver optimal healthcare  management, and communicating your findings with management.  

Government: Data Analysts are in demand in both the private and government sector. Every government needs to know what its people need. They need to keep track of these needs in the best way possible.  

Cities across the country have employed Data Analysts to carry out various tasks ranging from remediating blight to optimizing restaurant inspections and pest control.  

Tips for Anyone New to Data Analysis

The first step to becoming a Data Analyst is to get educated in data analytics. There are numerous options available both in class and online. Our Data Analytics course will not only help you learn all of the necessary skills, but you’ll also have a 1-on-1 mentor and an unrivaled support team.  

Demand is very high for Data Analysts, so you can be confident when you enter the job market. But as a newbie, you should be prepared to apply to a range of roles, and take as many interviews as you can after you graduate. Doing so will help you understand what companies look for in a candidate. It will also help you decide what type of company you’d like to work for.

How Much Do Entry-Level Data Analysts Make?  

Entry-level Data Analysts earn an average income of $41,116 per year. But as in any career, your earnings will depend on your level of experience and skill.  

Depending on your particular industry and company, you may start off with a range of titles. Here are some other entry-level Data Analyst positions and their average salaries, all according to data from salary.com:

• Financial Analyst: $67,597
• Business Analyst: $74,028
• Forensic Computer Analyst: $74,720
• Cyber Security Analyst: $94,937  

Keep  in mind that these starting salaries are just the first step. If you’re  dedicated to learning and improving your analysis prowess, you’ll have  lots of growth potential in this field.  

Become a Data Analyst in Less Than A Year

We hope you feel more prepared to start your journey as a Data Analyst. If you work hard, commit to learning the necessary skills and actively pursue some entry-level jobs or internships, you’ll quickly find your place in the world of big data.

If you’d like more guidance to get started in your data analytics program, we’re here to help. Our team is dedicated to helping you become a Data Analyst and ultimately land a job you’ll love.

FAQs:

How long does it take to become a Data Analyst? You can become a Data Analyst in just four months if you commit to learning full-time. You don’t need a formal degree to excel as a Data Analyst. You can take an online course and learn all the skills you need to get hired.  

Is it hard to become a Data Analyst?

If you enjoy math and have basic computer skills, it’s not very hard to become a professional analyst. You just have to be committed to learning and building up the skills that today’s employers need most.  

Do you need to learn to code to become a Data Analyst?

Yes, you’ll need to learn at least one coding language in order to be a Data Analyst. You’ll likely want to master Python and SQL, and may even decide to add other languages into your repertoire based on the needs of your role and your career goals.  

How Important Is A Data Analyst Portfolio?

A good portfolio will increase your chances of landing a job in a company you’ll love. Make sure to include projects that showcase your programming skills, such as Python, R, and SQL. You can also include your group projects if there are any.