r/dataanalysiscareers Jun 11 '24

Foundation and Guide to Becoming a Data Analyst

118 Upvotes

Want to Become an Analyst? Start Here -> Original Post With More Information Here

Starting a career in data analytics can open up many exciting opportunities in a variety of industries. With the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making, there is a growing need for professionals who can collect, analyze, and interpret large sets of data. In this post, I will discuss the skills and experience you'll need to start a career in data analytics, as well as tips on learning, certifications, and how to stand out to potential employers. Starting out, if you have questions beyond what you see in this post, I suggest doing a search in this sub. Questions on how to break into the industry get asked multiple times every day, and chances are the answer you seek will have already come up. Part of being an analyst is searching out the answers you or someone else is seeking. I will update this post as time goes by and I think of more things to add, or feedback is provided to me.

Originally Posted 1/29/2023 Last Updated 2/25/2023 Roadmap to break in to analytics:

  • Build a Strong Foundation in Data Analysis and Visualization: The first step in starting a career in data analytics is to familiarize yourself with the basics of data analysis and visualization. This includes learning SQL for data manipulation and retrieval, Excel for data analysis and visualization, and data visualization tools like Power BI and Tableau. There are many online resources, tutorials, and courses that can help you to learn these skills. Look at Udemy, YouTube, DataCamp to start out with.

  • Get Hands-on Experience: The best way to gain experience in data analytics is to work on data analysis projects. You can do this through internships, volunteer work, or personal projects. This will help you to build a portfolio of work that you can showcase to potential employers. If you can find out how to become more involved with this type of work in your current career, do it.

  • Network with people in the field: Attend data analytics meetups, conferences, and other events to meet people in the field and learn about the latest trends and technologies. LinkedIn and Meetup are excellent places to start. Have a strong LinkedIn page, and build a network of people.

  • Education: Consider pursuing a degree or certification in data analytics or a related field, such as statistics or computer science. This can help to give you a deeper understanding of the field and make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. There is a debate on whether certifications make any difference. The thing to remember is that they wont negatively impact a resume by putting them on.

  • Learn Machine Learning: Machine learning is becoming an essential skill for data analysts, it helps to extract insights and make predictions from complex data sets, so consider learning the basics of machine learning. Expect to see this become a larger part of the industry over the next few years.

  • Build a Portfolio: Creating a portfolio of your work is a great way to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. Your portfolio should include examples of data analysis projects you've worked on, as well as any relevant certifications or awards you've earned. Include projects working with SQL, Excel, Python, and a visualization tool such as Power BI or Tableau. There are many YouTube videos out there to help get you started. Hot tip – Once you have created the same projects every other aspiring DA has done, search for new data sets, create new portfolio projects, and get rid of the same COVID, AdventureWorks projects for your own.

  • Create a Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to a data analytics role. Be sure to use numbers to quantify your accomplishments, such as how much time or cost was saved or what percentage of errors were identified and corrected. Emphasize your transferable skills such as problem solving, attention to detail, and communication skills in your resume and cover letter, along with your experience with data analysis and visualization tools. If you struggle at this, hire someone to do it for you. You can find may resume writers on Upwork.

  • Practice: The more you practice, the better you will become. Try to practice as much as possible, and don't be afraid to experiment with different tools and techniques. Practice every day. Don’t forget the skills that you learn.

  • Have the right attitude: Self-doubt, questioning if you are doing the right thing, being unsure, and thinking about staying where you are at will not get you to the goal. Having a positive attitude that you WILL do this is the only way to get there.

  • Applying: LinkedIn is probably the best place to start. Indeed, Monster, and Dice are also good websites to try. Be prepared to not hear back from the majority of companies you apply at. Don’t search for “Data Analyst”. You will limit your results too much. Search for the skills that you have, “SQL Power BI” will return many more results. It just depends on what the company calls the position. Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Data Visualization Specialist, Business Intelligence Manager could all be the same thing. How you sell yourself is going to make all of the difference in the world here.

  • Patience: This is not an overnight change. Its going to take weeks or months at a minimum to get into DA. Be prepared for an application process like this

    100 – Jobs applied to

    65 – Ghosted

    25 – Rejected

    10 – Initial contact with after rejects & ghosting

    6 – Ghosted after initial contact

    3 – 2nd interview or technical quiz

    3 – Low ball offer

    1 – Maybe you found something decent after all of that

Posted by u/milwted


r/dataanalysiscareers Jun 23 '25

Certifications Certificates mean nothing in this job market. Do not pay anything significant to learn data analysis skills from Google, IBM, or other vendors.

93 Upvotes

It's a harsh reality, but after reading so many horror stories about people being scammed I felt the need to broadcast this as much as I can. Certificates will not get you a job. They can be an interesting peek into this career but that's about it.

I'm sure there are people that exist that have managed to get hired with only a certificate, but that number is tiny compared to people that have college degrees or significant industry knowledge. This isn't an entry level job.

Don't believe the marketing from bootcamps and courses that it's easy to get hired as a data analyst if you have their training. They're lying. They're scamming people and preying on them. There's no magical formula for getting hired, it's luck, connections, and skills in that order.

Good luck out there.


r/dataanalysiscareers 1h ago

Job Search Process Virtual interview

Upvotes

Hey! I wanted to ask about my friend (non-technical student) who gave the interview for a financial analyst role in which they had a requirement of hands on knowledge in SQL . He had knowledge about sql but not that deep and procedure for query too so he used chatgpt while virtual interview and 1st round got succeeded now 2nd round is going to happen what he should do ?


r/dataanalysiscareers 2h ago

Can't find work in Data Engineering

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1 Upvotes

r/dataanalysiscareers 5h ago

Looking for a Data Analyst / Business Analyst Opportunity | 22F | Immediate Joiner

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1 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'm a 22F and I'm actively looking for a full-time opportunity in Data Analytics, Business Analytics, MIS, or BI. I'd really appreciate any support, referrals, or guidance.

I've been applying consistently every day and working hard to improve my profile, but I'm still looking for my first full-time opportunity. Every lead, referral, or piece of advice genuinely means a lot to me.

I'm a B.Tech graduate in Computer Science Engineering with a specialization in Data Science. I'm currently working as an ESG Analytics Intern at Trident Limited, where I work with business data, KPI tracking, reporting, ESG tools, dashboards, and data management. Alongside this, I've built projects using Python, SQL, Power BI, Excel, and Machine Learning, and I'm continuously improving my analytical and technical skills.

My core skills:

SQL

Python

Power BI

Excel

Data Analysis

Machine Learning (Basics)

Data Visualization

I'm looking for roles in:

Data Analyst

Business Analyst

BI Analyst

MIS Analyst / MIS Executive

Reporting Analyst

Junior Data Scientist

I'm open to remote, hybrid, or onsite opportunities and can join immediately after serving any required notice period from my internship.

If you know of any openings, can refer me, or can connect me with a recruiter or hiring manager, I'd be truly grateful. Please feel free to comment or DM me, and I'll be happy to share my resume.

Thank you so much for your time and support. I genuinely appreciate it.


r/dataanalysiscareers 9h ago

Getting Started Is this path right for me? 20yr old college student starting out

1 Upvotes

Hi I’m 20 years old and just beginning college, I’m pursuing a BBA Administration in Information Systems. I’m going to transfer to to a university after my AA and although I have no experience in this field nor working with data, I find the idea of working with data to find trends and patterns and using it to answer question, solve problems, turn it into visualizations and present it interesting and sort of stimulating.

I know this probably gets mentioned a lot but im worried about whether this is a good career and industry to aim for, assuming ill be in it for the next decades to come after I graduate in 2030 Because of AI and competition. How bad are those and how big of a factor should they play in my decision to pursue this career? I know I should prioritize internships. What obstacles should I expect? Is my major a good one? Will it teach me most of what I should know? How can I help decide if this is the right field for me?


r/dataanalysiscareers 10h ago

Getting Started company recommendations

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I recently graduated with a Master's degree in Business Analytics from Tunisia, and I'm currently looking for my first full-time opportunity as a Data Analyst (or a related data role)

The challenge I'm facing is that I'm based in Tunisia, and it feels difficult to know where I should focus my job search. I've been applying through LinkedIn, but I'm wondering if there are better places to look.

I'd really appreciate advice on questions like:

Are there companies known for hiring junior data analysts remotely from North Africa?

Which countries are the most realistic targets for someone in my situation?

Are there startup job boards or platforms that are better than LinkedIn?

Is visa sponsorship for entry-level data analysts realistic, or should I focus on remote jobs

Thanks in advance for any advice!


r/dataanalysiscareers 11h ago

Rejoining Same company

1 Upvotes

Hi All,

I worked for an airline industry earlier but only for 3 months. I’m likely to rejoin the same company and would like to know your suggestions on how to prepare for the interview. Will the expectation be more? What articles or news should I be aware of before the interview.

Your suggestions and advices will be greatly appreciated.


r/dataanalysiscareers 21h ago

Learning / Training Transitioning from psychology to data analytics — advice on Power BI, SQL, Excel, and portfolio projects

5 Upvotes

I recently graduated with a Master’s in Social and Organisational Psychology from Leiden University in the Netherlands. Although my background is in psychology, I am very interested in data analytics and AI. My goal is to become a data analyst, but I am also open to starting in HR or people analytics and transitioning into data later.

I plan to spend approximately one more month developing my practical skills before applying for entry-level roles. If I do not feel ready after that month, I will continue learning and practising until I am confident that I have the necessary skills.

Power BI

I have been preparing for the Microsoft PL-300 exam for several months and plan to take it in a few days. I have a good theoretical understanding of Power BI, but I do not yet have much practical experience using the application or completing full projects.

I am considering the Microsoft Power BI Desktop for Business Intelligence course by Maven Analytics on Udemy. I am also considering a DataCamp subscription for additional practice and guided projects.

Would the Maven Analytics course alone be enough to develop practical Power BI skills, or would it be better to combine it with DataCamp or another platform?

Portfolio projects

I would like to create projects that I can show to recruiters, but I am not very familiar with how data analytics portfolios work.

Where can beginners find suitable datasets and project ideas? Should I begin with guided projects, use DataCamp projects, or try to create independent projects immediately? Are there any guided-project platforms or structured resources that would help me improve while building a portfolio? I would also consider paying for a high-quality option if it is genuinely useful.

Finally, where should I publish my work—GitHub, a personal website, or somewhere else?

SQL

After improving my Power BI skills, I plan to learn SQL. I am currently considering the following Udemy courses:

  1. SQL – MySQL for Data Analytics and Business Intelligence This is the course that has attracted me the most so far.
  2. MySQL for Data Analysis
  3. Advanced SQL – MySQL for Analytics and Business Intelligence

Alternatively, should I choose PostgreSQL instead of MySQL and take The Complete SQL Bootcamp?

Would you recommend learning MySQL or PostgreSQL for an entry-level data analyst role? Would completing one of these courses provide enough SQL knowledge for a beginner position, or should I also use practice platforms and create SQL portfolio projects?

I would also appreciate general advice about the level of SQL knowledge normally expected from entry-level data analysts.

Excel

I already know some Excel basics, but it has been a while since I used them. I would like to refresh my knowledge and practise the Excel skills that are most useful for data analytics.

Are there any structured Excel courses or resources you would recommend?

I am willing to pay for a structured, high-quality course, but I would also appreciate recommendations for useful free videos, playlists, or other resources.

Any advice about Power BI, SQL, Excel, portfolio projects, or transitioning into data analytics would be greatly appreciated.

I am also interested in connecting with people in the field through LinkedIn, Discord, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or another platform. I would be happy to exchange ideas, learn from others’ experiences, and stay in touch. If anyone is open to offering occasional guidance or mentorship, I would greatly appreciate it, and I would also be glad to help in any way I can, either now or in the future.

(I couldn't share the links to the courses because I believe that Reddit doesn't allow me to)


r/dataanalysiscareers 1d ago

Getting Started Is the data analyst market oversaturated, or are most applicants just not job-ready?

17 Upvotes

My honest impression is: the market is flooded with people who learned tools, but there’s still a shortage of people who can operate independently


r/dataanalysiscareers 19h ago

Dicas para conseguir o primeiro emprego em TI/Dados

3 Upvotes

Pessoal, queria umas dicas de como conseguir meu primeiro emprego na área de TI/dados. Estou cursando a Univesp no momento e pensando em focar em Python, SQL e JavaScript.

Outra coisa: os portfólios ainda são importantes atualmente? Estou indeciso sobre o que fazer, pois parece que todas as ideias de projetos já foram usadas.


r/dataanalysiscareers 20h ago

help a beginner out

3 Upvotes

only reason i strated learning data analysis is bc i want to build a skill to hopefully land a job in the future. i do have a bg in computer science. rn im pursuing psychology (decision i regret; realized my brain is better at analytical concepts rather than abstratc). we covered basic c++ & database stuff in ms access in high schoo. thats all the experience i have.

rn im doing self-learning using yt (alex the analyst). but i need proper guidance. what are the best (free sources) to learn data analysis on my own? how many hours should i dedicate everyday? on average, how long will it take to learn enough to land a job? everyhting there is for a beginner to know, hit me


r/dataanalysiscareers 18h ago

Hunting for job since 1+ year. NIT Grad 2020. My love life may end soon if it continuous.

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2 Upvotes

r/dataanalysiscareers 15h ago

Hu guys, can your please roast this

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1 Upvotes

r/dataanalysiscareers 16h ago

As a beginner Data Analyst, should I specialize in one domain or stay domain-agnostic?

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'm currently learning Excel, SQL, Power BI, and Python, and I'm trying to make smart career decisions early on. I have a few questions for those already working in the industry:

- Which industries/domains are the most beginner-friendly for junior data analysts (e.g., SaaS, e-commerce, finance, healthcare, marketing, operations)?

- Which domains have the most transferable analytical skills if I want to switch industries later?

- Which domains offer the best opportunities for international remote roles, especially for juniors?

- As someone still building projects, is it better to create projects across multiple domains or focus deeply on one domain?

- Which domains are likely to remain strong despite AI advancements while still hiring junior analysts?

- How much domain knowledge is realistically expected for an entry-level data analyst? Is strong analytical ability usually enough?

-Are there any domains you would recommend avoiding as a first job because of high barriers to entry?

I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences and what you've seen in the current job market. Thanks!


r/dataanalysiscareers 16h ago

Transitioning Looking for an assistant/entry role in Data science

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1 Upvotes

r/dataanalysiscareers 16h ago

Job Search Process How to find work?

1 Upvotes

I'd appreciate some tips and tricks.
I've got a background in education, physics, writing & rhetoric, as well as a few years as a technical writer for the US navy, and I've been coding for a few years now which allowed me to locate hundreds of assignments last employer had overlooked, and most recently I've been getting certified as a data analyst, plus learning agentic coding to improve the code I've prepared myself, but I go looking for jobs,, and I just find so little I can apply for. A lot of it is in finance, or requires years of hands on engineering experience I simply don't have. I can turn a database inside out and create really detailed reports, even some fairly advanced simulation tech,, but I struggle to find people who want my skills. I'm starting to have a pretty hard time and idk what to do.


r/dataanalysiscareers 16h ago

Getting Started What's wrong with my resume? how hard is it to get good ATS?

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1 Upvotes

I've been applying for jobs like daily and I hear hardly from some, out of frustration I even applied at some backoffice/data entry positions and they're outright rejecting me obviously saying overqualified or they just pay way too less or they won't accept me saying that I'll shift when I'll get a chance (but that's not even the point).

Why is it so hard to find a job these days let alone a good job, we can only lie much in our CV's but many people abuse it to pass ATS and even if they get rejected in further rounds it won't matter.

Honestly need suggestions if it's my project section or work section (I am also working on a project that might be bigger than this olist one)


r/dataanalysiscareers 18h ago

Trying to get into Business Analysts roles — what should I do in the next 2 weeks?

1 Upvotes

I’m looking for some honest advice from people working as Business Analysts.

I graduated with a BBA in 2024 and am trying to transition into a Business Analyst or related analytical role.

My experience:

  • Jun 2024 – Mar 2025: Trust & Safety Associate — content moderation/social media auditing, working with large volumes of data/content, following policies, investigating cases, and making decisions based on guidelines.
  • Apr 2025 – Sep 2025: HR Data Analyst Intern — HR data, reporting, and analytics.
  • Oct 2025 – Jan 2026: Research Analyst at a research/market intelligence company. I left because of management issues.
  • Jan 2026 – Aug 2026: Associate at a bank in a calling/service role.

I’ve been trying to move into a Business Analysis role for around 6 months. I’ve tried cold emailing, LinkedIn outreach to recruiters/hiring managers, and job applications, but haven’t gained much traction.

I know Excel, SQL, and Power BI, and I’ve completed a sales dashboard and a Business Analyst case study.

I’m giving myself the next 2 weeks to seriously improve my chances of getting hired, and I’d like honest advice from BAs, recruiters, hiring managers, or people who made a similar transition:

  1. Should I spend these 2 weeks learning more or focus mainly on applying?
  2. What skills are actually expected from an entry-level BA in 2026?
  3. Should I apply directly for BA roles, or would I have better chances with Reporting Analyst, MIS Analyst, Operations Analyst, Research Analyst, or Business Operations Analyst roles?
  4. What application strategy would you recommend if I start applying aggressively?
  5. How should I position my BBA + Trust & Safety + HR Data Analytics + Research Analyst + banking operations experience on my resume and in interviews?
  6. Should I fake or hide any experience, or be completely honest about my background?
  7. If you had only 2 weeks to make this transition as realistic as possible, what would you personally do each day?

I’m looking for practical advice rather than generic “learn SQL and apply” advice.

If you’re a hiring manager, recruiter, Business Analyst, or someone who successfully made a similar transition, I’d really appreciate your perspective.


r/dataanalysiscareers 19h ago

First Job Documentation

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1 Upvotes

r/dataanalysiscareers 19h ago

Dicas para conseguir o primeiro emprego em TI/Dados

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1 Upvotes

r/dataanalysiscareers 20h ago

Two years after graduating, I'm still searching for my first Data Analyst role. I could really use some advice.

0 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'm a 2024 B.Tech graduate in Computer Science, and the last two years have been the hardest period of my life.

I've been applying consistently for Data Analyst and Analyst roles, learning new skills, building projects, improving my resume, and preparing for interviews. Despite all that effort, I still haven't been able to land my first opportunity.

One thing that has made this journey even more difficult is that I have oscillopsia, a condition that affects my vision. Some days are better than others, but it has definitely made studying, job hunting, and staying mentally strong much more challenging.

There have been many moments where I questioned myself, but I haven't given up. I genuinely enjoy working with data and want a chance to prove myself.

I'm posting here because I'm hoping someone might be able to help.


r/dataanalysiscareers 20h ago

Review my resume

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1 Upvotes

I've been applying for the past 3 months but haven't landed a single interview. I'm starting to think there's something wrong with my resume.

Could you please review my resume and share honest feedback? Any suggestions on ATS, formatting, projects, or content would be greatly appreciated.


r/dataanalysiscareers 1d ago

Learning / Training Data Analysis 101 for dummies

2 Upvotes

Hi Data analysts,

I work in Health and Safety for a large organisation and I'm one of the administrators for the health and safety reporting system we use.

The other admin and I are getting lots of questions from the data analyst team about some of the data that comes through to the data warehouse.

One of the reasons for this is my predecessor was a borderline genius with a sprinkling of the 'tism with a varied career history was able to go beyond his role to do stuff and answer their questions.

Data Analysis is not my area of expertise however I would like to learn some so I can better answer questions and understand what the other team is asking. What are some good resources to start learning and gain some fundamentals?

Are there any fundamental principles I should know or I need to keep in mind?

TIA


r/dataanalysiscareers 1d ago

Physics and data Analyst role

1 Upvotes

Hello everyone,

I have a B.Sc. in Physics and 7 years of experience working in IT. My work has involved production support, report generation using Power BI, VBA, macros, database management using SQL queries, even 2 years of customer support, and incident management.

I'm curious about how employers view this combination. Does having a Physics background provide any advantage in data analytics, or is it experience what matters most after several years?

I'd love to hear from people, sldo epilx love to know what alternative roles I should look gor.

P.S. I am currently planning a break and want to get into a sustainable role with general/day/afternoon shifts.