7 answers
Angy
Student
Milan, Lombardy, Italy
23
Questions
Updated
4135 views
Is business analyst a good career?
Is a junior business analyst an accessible career for a 18 years old? I am thinking of pursuing this career I don’t intend on going to college and I’ve seen that it’s not a requirement for this job, I also would like to get one from a US company(I am from Europe) and fully remote.
I just want to know which steps I need to take in order to get a job in this field, which certifications and which type of portfolio I need to create.
Also if the entry level salary would be good?
I have great communication skills and I actually own a couple of online business, tho they don’t make much(I was thinking of getting hired as a contractor since I already have a LLC set for those online businesses)
Will I be able to get a junior role? Is the job very stressful or has good work life balance? Please don’t be rube(like on Reddit:))
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7 answers
Savita Acharya (US)
IT Analyst
20
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Savita’s Answer
A Junior Business Analyst is an entry-level position in the field of business analysis, where the primary role is to assist more senior analysts or teams in gathering, analyzing, and interpreting business data. Junior Business Analysts typically work with stakeholders to understand business needs, document requirements, and support the development of solutions that improve business operations.
Here is an overview of what a Junior Business Analyst's career typically involves:
Key Responsibilities:
Data Collection and Analysis:
Gather data from various sources (internal reports, customer feedback, market trends).
Assist in analyzing this data to identify business problems and opportunities.
Requirements Gathering:
Assist senior analysts in collecting and documenting business requirements.
Conduct interviews and workshops with stakeholders to understand business needs.
Process Mapping and Documentation:
Document current business processes and help design more efficient solutions.
Create process flowcharts and diagrams to visualize processes for stakeholders.
Reporting and Presentation:
Prepare reports and presentations based on the analysis and findings.
Present data and insights to stakeholders in an understandable format.
Support in Solution Implementation:
Assist in the implementation of business solutions or systems.
Test solutions and assist in quality assurance (QA) activities.
Required Skills:
Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze large sets of data and identify trends or areas for improvement.
Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Problem-Solving: Ability to identify business problems and suggest actionable solutions.
Attention to Detail: Ensuring that requirements and documentation are thorough and accurate.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with tools like Excel, SQL, and project management or business analysis software (e.g., JIRA, Microsoft Visio).
Career Progression:
Mid-Level Business Analyst: After gaining a few years of experience, a Junior Business Analyst can move into a mid-level analyst role, where they take on more responsibilities, including leading projects and working more independently with clients.
Senior Business Analyst: In a senior role, business analysts typically manage larger projects, mentor junior staff, and play a key role in strategic decision-making.
Specialization: Some Junior Business Analysts choose to specialize in areas like data analysis, process improvement, or project management.
Management: Business Analysts with significant experience can transition into management roles, such as Business Analysis Manager or Product Manager.
Education and Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Information Technology, or related fields is typically required.
Certifications like Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP), ECBA (Entry Certificate in Business Analysis), or Agile certifications can be beneficial but are not mandatory for entry-level positions.
Career Outlook:
The demand for business analysts is growing as more companies invest in data-driven decision-making. Junior Business Analysts can expect to find opportunities across various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, consulting, and retail.
Key Takeaways:
A Junior Business Analyst position is a great starting point for individuals interested in solving business problems and improving processes. With experience, there is ample opportunity for career advancement and specialization.
Here is an overview of what a Junior Business Analyst's career typically involves:
Key Responsibilities:
Data Collection and Analysis:
Gather data from various sources (internal reports, customer feedback, market trends).
Assist in analyzing this data to identify business problems and opportunities.
Requirements Gathering:
Assist senior analysts in collecting and documenting business requirements.
Conduct interviews and workshops with stakeholders to understand business needs.
Process Mapping and Documentation:
Document current business processes and help design more efficient solutions.
Create process flowcharts and diagrams to visualize processes for stakeholders.
Reporting and Presentation:
Prepare reports and presentations based on the analysis and findings.
Present data and insights to stakeholders in an understandable format.
Support in Solution Implementation:
Assist in the implementation of business solutions or systems.
Test solutions and assist in quality assurance (QA) activities.
Required Skills:
Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze large sets of data and identify trends or areas for improvement.
Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Problem-Solving: Ability to identify business problems and suggest actionable solutions.
Attention to Detail: Ensuring that requirements and documentation are thorough and accurate.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with tools like Excel, SQL, and project management or business analysis software (e.g., JIRA, Microsoft Visio).
Career Progression:
Mid-Level Business Analyst: After gaining a few years of experience, a Junior Business Analyst can move into a mid-level analyst role, where they take on more responsibilities, including leading projects and working more independently with clients.
Senior Business Analyst: In a senior role, business analysts typically manage larger projects, mentor junior staff, and play a key role in strategic decision-making.
Specialization: Some Junior Business Analysts choose to specialize in areas like data analysis, process improvement, or project management.
Management: Business Analysts with significant experience can transition into management roles, such as Business Analysis Manager or Product Manager.
Education and Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Information Technology, or related fields is typically required.
Certifications like Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP), ECBA (Entry Certificate in Business Analysis), or Agile certifications can be beneficial but are not mandatory for entry-level positions.
Career Outlook:
The demand for business analysts is growing as more companies invest in data-driven decision-making. Junior Business Analysts can expect to find opportunities across various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, consulting, and retail.
Key Takeaways:
A Junior Business Analyst position is a great starting point for individuals interested in solving business problems and improving processes. With experience, there is ample opportunity for career advancement and specialization.
Michele Lofchie
Senior Solution Consultant
9
Answers
Rockford, Illinois
Updated
Michele’s Answer
Starting out as a Junior Business Analyst is a very good career choice. There are many different fields of industry that use Business Analysts. I happen to fall into the role of Business Analyst along my career journey in Information Technology, so I will respond with my experience in the IT world.
I agree with others that a college degree is not a requirement, but it is highly recommended because some companies require one while others do not but still is preferred. However, people skills can make up for lack of degree in some cases.
I currently work for Salesforce as a Sr. Solution Consultant which is a role equivalent to a Sr Business Analyst. The primary skills needed are ability to listen to 'client' needs, be able to understand the requirements, document them, and recite/present them back in a visual way (i.e., a process flow) . Additionally, understanding data architecture and tools that work with data (excel, BI, etc) is also important.
Remote work is an option (as I currently do) but it helps to be able to meet with the team and/or 'client' occasionally to build relationships and trust.
Regardless if you are interested in Salesforce or Information Technology, there are some free learning tools that may be helpful in providing skills or even determining if Business Analyst position in the IT world is of interest to you.
Business Analyst Career Path: https://trailhead.salesforce.com/en/career-path/business-analyst/
Get Started as a Salesforce Business Analyst: https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/trails/get-started-as-a-salesforce-business-analyst
I agree with others that a college degree is not a requirement, but it is highly recommended because some companies require one while others do not but still is preferred. However, people skills can make up for lack of degree in some cases.
I currently work for Salesforce as a Sr. Solution Consultant which is a role equivalent to a Sr Business Analyst. The primary skills needed are ability to listen to 'client' needs, be able to understand the requirements, document them, and recite/present them back in a visual way (i.e., a process flow) . Additionally, understanding data architecture and tools that work with data (excel, BI, etc) is also important.
Remote work is an option (as I currently do) but it helps to be able to meet with the team and/or 'client' occasionally to build relationships and trust.
Regardless if you are interested in Salesforce or Information Technology, there are some free learning tools that may be helpful in providing skills or even determining if Business Analyst position in the IT world is of interest to you.
Business Analyst Career Path: https://trailhead.salesforce.com/en/career-path/business-analyst/
Get Started as a Salesforce Business Analyst: https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/trails/get-started-as-a-salesforce-business-analyst
Hey thanks for replying, I’ve looked around and happarently a certificate is not even necessary, since many companies hire you on the spot to train you into a field (usually very specific)that would be useful to them and the company and that its really hard to find.
That’s just what I red online on places like YouTube, google ,reddit(even tho this last one tends to be very pessimistic in general, don’t know if you have experience with it)
I just wanted to know if that was the truth in general. My biggest concerns really are that I won’t be able to find a job because I lack a degree and because I am not a US citizen, do you think I need to worry for that? I am willing to take some free certificates and build a portfolio
Angy
Hi Angy - It is really impossible to know if you will be able to find a US job, All I can advise is to try those 2 links that I sent you which will give you some additional background learning. Yes, many companies do offer training to people who can demonstrate they offer the acumen to learn and possess soft skills that will make them successful (active listening, communication....) The main job sites in the US are LinkedIn and Indeed. If you haven't checked them out yet, I suggest you do a search there to see what opportunities currently exist. Best of success to you in building your portfolio and continued learning.
Michele Lofchie
Ok I’ve already done that and it seems that those jobs aren’t too competitive(about 50/100applicants per job) and there are like 20k job postings, I just wanted to know what your perception about my situations are?if you don’t mind sharing that, i own 2 websites where I’ve utilised skills such as digital marketing budgeting ,traffic analysis and paid ads campaign, even tho those tests that I’ve done aren’t the biggest technical stuff you’d find, but regardless I am very good at communicating, as those website were owned even by some of my friends, so I needed to juggle all their expectations as well.
Sorry if I keep bothering you, I just wanted to know if I can pull this off really, or it’s better to go in another career, even tho I think I can be doing great in BA
Angy
Seems like you already have an entrepreneurial spirt, and a belief in yourself, which is great! I'd say, if this is what you aspire, then you should continue to pursue. Don't get discouraged if it takes some time. Keep pursuing.
Michele Lofchie
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Angy!
Is Business Analyst a Good Career?
Overview of the Business Analyst Role
A business analyst (BA) plays a crucial role in organizations by bridging the gap between IT and business. They analyze business needs, identify solutions, and help implement changes to improve processes and systems. This role is increasingly important as companies rely on data-driven decision-making.
Accessibility for an 18-Year-Old
Becoming a junior business analyst is indeed accessible for an 18-year-old, especially if you possess strong communication skills and some experience with online businesses. While many positions prefer candidates with a degree, it is not strictly necessary, particularly for entry-level roles. Employers often value practical experience and relevant skills over formal education.
Steps to Pursue a Career as a Junior Business Analyst
Skill Development:
Focus on developing analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in tools commonly used in business analysis such as Microsoft Excel, SQL, or data visualization software like Tableau.
Familiarize yourself with basic project management principles and methodologies like Agile or Scrum.
Certifications:
Consider obtaining certifications that can enhance your resume. Some popular options include:
Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP): Although this is more suited for experienced analysts, understanding its framework can be beneficial.
Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA): This certification is designed for beginners and covers foundational knowledge.
Agile Analysis Certification (AAC): Useful if you’re interested in working within Agile environments.
Building a Portfolio:
Create a portfolio showcasing any projects you’ve worked on related to your online businesses. Include case studies that demonstrate your analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
If possible, work on hypothetical projects or volunteer for local businesses to gain practical experience that you can showcase.
Networking:
Join professional networks such as LinkedIn groups focused on business analysis or local meetups where you can connect with professionals in the field.
Consider reaching out to mentors who can provide guidance and potentially refer you to job opportunities.
Job Search Strategy:
Look for remote job listings specifically targeting junior business analysts or internships that allow you to gain experience while working from Europe.
Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with job descriptions.
Entry-Level Salary Expectations
The salary for junior business analysts varies widely based on location, company size, and industry. In the United States, entry-level salaries typically range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Remote positions may offer competitive salaries comparable to those of onsite roles due to the demand for skilled analysts.
Work-Life Balance and Job Stress
The work-life balance for business analysts can be favorable compared to other roles in tech or finance. Many companies promote flexible working hours and remote work options. However, like any job that involves meeting deadlines or managing stakeholder expectations, there can be periods of stress—especially during project launches or critical phases of analysis.
Overall, if you are proactive about building your skills and networking effectively, pursuing a career as a junior business analyst without attending college is feasible.
Probability of Answer Being Correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)
This organization provides resources related to business analysis practices including certifications like CBAP and ECBA which are recognized globally.
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary ranges, and employment statistics across various occupations including business analysts in the United States.
3. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning provides courses tailored towards developing skills necessary for aspiring business analysts including data analysis tools and methodologies relevant to the field.
God Bless!
JC.
Is Business Analyst a Good Career?
Overview of the Business Analyst Role
A business analyst (BA) plays a crucial role in organizations by bridging the gap between IT and business. They analyze business needs, identify solutions, and help implement changes to improve processes and systems. This role is increasingly important as companies rely on data-driven decision-making.
Accessibility for an 18-Year-Old
Becoming a junior business analyst is indeed accessible for an 18-year-old, especially if you possess strong communication skills and some experience with online businesses. While many positions prefer candidates with a degree, it is not strictly necessary, particularly for entry-level roles. Employers often value practical experience and relevant skills over formal education.
Steps to Pursue a Career as a Junior Business Analyst
Skill Development:
Focus on developing analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in tools commonly used in business analysis such as Microsoft Excel, SQL, or data visualization software like Tableau.
Familiarize yourself with basic project management principles and methodologies like Agile or Scrum.
Certifications:
Consider obtaining certifications that can enhance your resume. Some popular options include:
Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP): Although this is more suited for experienced analysts, understanding its framework can be beneficial.
Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA): This certification is designed for beginners and covers foundational knowledge.
Agile Analysis Certification (AAC): Useful if you’re interested in working within Agile environments.
Building a Portfolio:
Create a portfolio showcasing any projects you’ve worked on related to your online businesses. Include case studies that demonstrate your analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
If possible, work on hypothetical projects or volunteer for local businesses to gain practical experience that you can showcase.
Networking:
Join professional networks such as LinkedIn groups focused on business analysis or local meetups where you can connect with professionals in the field.
Consider reaching out to mentors who can provide guidance and potentially refer you to job opportunities.
Job Search Strategy:
Look for remote job listings specifically targeting junior business analysts or internships that allow you to gain experience while working from Europe.
Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with job descriptions.
Entry-Level Salary Expectations
The salary for junior business analysts varies widely based on location, company size, and industry. In the United States, entry-level salaries typically range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Remote positions may offer competitive salaries comparable to those of onsite roles due to the demand for skilled analysts.
Work-Life Balance and Job Stress
The work-life balance for business analysts can be favorable compared to other roles in tech or finance. Many companies promote flexible working hours and remote work options. However, like any job that involves meeting deadlines or managing stakeholder expectations, there can be periods of stress—especially during project launches or critical phases of analysis.
Overall, if you are proactive about building your skills and networking effectively, pursuing a career as a junior business analyst without attending college is feasible.
Probability of Answer Being Correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)
This organization provides resources related to business analysis practices including certifications like CBAP and ECBA which are recognized globally.
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary ranges, and employment statistics across various occupations including business analysts in the United States.
3. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning provides courses tailored towards developing skills necessary for aspiring business analysts including data analysis tools and methodologies relevant to the field.
God Bless!
JC.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Angy
ASK FOR MORE IF YOU NEED IT ANGY!
James Constantine Frangos
Hey do you think free certifications will be enough to land a remote job in this field?
Angy
Certifications will not be sufficient on their own to secure a remote job in this competitive field. It is advisable to complement these certifications with practical experience, networking efforts, and the development of soft skills to enhance employability.
JC.
James Constantine Frangos
but how can I demonstrate the employer my soft skills(if not on the interview) also for the practical experience part, I would say that I am planning on building a portfolio using my business and actually implementing the techniques that I’ve learned like VMOST analysis and gap analysis
Angy
Hello Angy, my answer is below:-
James Constantine Frangos
Archived User
16
Answers
Updated
Archived’s Answer
Dear Angy,
This sounds like a great career choice and I wish you a lot of luck and success with it! In every career path, there could be ups and downs but the important thing is to never lose hope and to never stop learning! I am currently working for a company in their account management and business analytics department. Before joining this department, I started at one of the lowest levels in the company, namely at Customer Service and then I worked my way up to where I am now. I have a background in economics and marketing, but honestly if you are willing to learn it isn't always necessary to have a university diploma. I would advise you to follow some courses on Udemy or a similar platform. A website that really helped me with learning more about SQL is Codecademy - where they also used to offer quite a few free courses. So in a nutshell I would recommend getting some knowledge (maybe you have it already) in SQL, Hadoop (Big Data), Tableau, Data visualization tools - for example you can even build a nice graph using Google sheets. Regarding the work-life balance it really depends on the country (working culture) and also it depends on yourself and how you set your boundaries and prioritize the workload. At my current job there is always a lot to do and the work never ends, but when I prioritize correctly - I am able to balance my personal and work life. So I'd say good prioritization skills and setting your boundaries can definitely help you with a good work/life balance.
Once more wish you all the best, a lot of luck, health and new knowledge!
Greetings,
Alex
This sounds like a great career choice and I wish you a lot of luck and success with it! In every career path, there could be ups and downs but the important thing is to never lose hope and to never stop learning! I am currently working for a company in their account management and business analytics department. Before joining this department, I started at one of the lowest levels in the company, namely at Customer Service and then I worked my way up to where I am now. I have a background in economics and marketing, but honestly if you are willing to learn it isn't always necessary to have a university diploma. I would advise you to follow some courses on Udemy or a similar platform. A website that really helped me with learning more about SQL is Codecademy - where they also used to offer quite a few free courses. So in a nutshell I would recommend getting some knowledge (maybe you have it already) in SQL, Hadoop (Big Data), Tableau, Data visualization tools - for example you can even build a nice graph using Google sheets. Regarding the work-life balance it really depends on the country (working culture) and also it depends on yourself and how you set your boundaries and prioritize the workload. At my current job there is always a lot to do and the work never ends, but when I prioritize correctly - I am able to balance my personal and work life. So I'd say good prioritization skills and setting your boundaries can definitely help you with a good work/life balance.
Once more wish you all the best, a lot of luck, health and new knowledge!
Greetings,
Alex
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR ANGY
Demonstrating Soft Skills and Practical Experience to Employers
1. Building a Portfolio of Work
Creating a portfolio is an effective way to demonstrate your soft skills and practical experience. A well-structured portfolio can showcase not only your technical abilities but also your interpersonal skills, problem-solving capabilities, and adaptability. Here’s how you can build it:
Include Case Studies: Document specific projects where you applied techniques like VMOST analysis (Vision, Mission, Objectives, Strategy, Tactics) and gap analysis. Describe the context of each project, your role, the challenges faced, and how you collaborated with others to achieve results. Highlight any leadership roles or teamwork experiences that illustrate your communication and collaboration skills.
Show Results: Use metrics to quantify your achievements. For instance, if you implemented a strategy that improved efficiency or increased sales, include those figures. This not only demonstrates your analytical skills but also shows potential employers that you can deliver tangible results.
Reflect on Learning Experiences: Include reflections on what you learned from each project. This could involve discussing feedback received from peers or supervisors and how you adapted based on that feedback. Such reflections indicate self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth—key components of soft skills.
2. Utilizing Online Platforms
In addition to a physical portfolio, consider using online platforms to showcase your work:
LinkedIn: Create a comprehensive LinkedIn profile that highlights your projects and accomplishments. Share articles or posts about the techniques you’ve learned and how you’ve applied them in real-world scenarios. Engage with industry-related content to demonstrate thought leadership.
Personal Website or Blog: If possible, create a personal website where you can present detailed case studies of your work. You can also write blog posts about business strategies or analyses you’ve conducted, which will further illustrate your expertise and communication skills.
3. Networking Opportunities
Engaging in networking opportunities can also help demonstrate your soft skills:
Attend Industry Events: Participate in workshops, seminars, or conferences related to your field. These events provide opportunities for networking where you can practice interpersonal skills like active listening and effective communication.
Join Professional Organizations: Becoming a member of relevant professional organizations allows you to connect with others in your field while showcasing your commitment to professional development.
4. Volunteering for Projects
Consider volunteering for projects within community organizations or non-profits where you can apply business techniques:
Lead Initiatives: Take the lead on initiatives that require planning and execution using VMOST analysis or gap analysis frameworks. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your resume but also allow you to demonstrate leadership qualities.
Collaborate with Diverse Teams: Working with diverse groups will help hone your teamwork abilities as you’ll need to navigate different perspectives and communication styles.
5. Requesting Feedback
Finally, actively seek feedback from peers or mentors regarding both technical competencies and soft skills:
Peer Reviews: After completing projects, ask colleagues for their input on how effectively you communicated ideas or collaborated as part of the team.
Mentorship Programs: Engaging in mentorship programs provides an avenue for receiving constructive criticism on both hard and soft skill areas from experienced professionals.
By combining these strategies—building a comprehensive portfolio, utilizing online platforms effectively, engaging in networking opportunities, volunteering for relevant projects, and seeking feedback—you can convincingly demonstrate both your soft skills and practical experience to potential employers outside of traditional interview settings.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Harvard Business Review
Harvard Business Review provides insights into management practices including the importance of soft skills in the workplace as well as effective methods for demonstrating these skills through various means such as portfolios.
2. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning offers courses focused on building professional portfolios and enhancing soft skills necessary for career advancement; it emphasizes practical applications of business strategies like VMOST analysis.
3. American Management Association (AMA)
The AMA discusses best practices in leadership development including how professionals can showcase their competencies through real-world applications such as volunteer work or project-based experiences.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
GOD BLESS YOU MORE!
The Little Aussie Battler.
Demonstrating Soft Skills and Practical Experience to Employers
1. Building a Portfolio of Work
Creating a portfolio is an effective way to demonstrate your soft skills and practical experience. A well-structured portfolio can showcase not only your technical abilities but also your interpersonal skills, problem-solving capabilities, and adaptability. Here’s how you can build it:
Include Case Studies: Document specific projects where you applied techniques like VMOST analysis (Vision, Mission, Objectives, Strategy, Tactics) and gap analysis. Describe the context of each project, your role, the challenges faced, and how you collaborated with others to achieve results. Highlight any leadership roles or teamwork experiences that illustrate your communication and collaboration skills.
Show Results: Use metrics to quantify your achievements. For instance, if you implemented a strategy that improved efficiency or increased sales, include those figures. This not only demonstrates your analytical skills but also shows potential employers that you can deliver tangible results.
Reflect on Learning Experiences: Include reflections on what you learned from each project. This could involve discussing feedback received from peers or supervisors and how you adapted based on that feedback. Such reflections indicate self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth—key components of soft skills.
2. Utilizing Online Platforms
In addition to a physical portfolio, consider using online platforms to showcase your work:
LinkedIn: Create a comprehensive LinkedIn profile that highlights your projects and accomplishments. Share articles or posts about the techniques you’ve learned and how you’ve applied them in real-world scenarios. Engage with industry-related content to demonstrate thought leadership.
Personal Website or Blog: If possible, create a personal website where you can present detailed case studies of your work. You can also write blog posts about business strategies or analyses you’ve conducted, which will further illustrate your expertise and communication skills.
3. Networking Opportunities
Engaging in networking opportunities can also help demonstrate your soft skills:
Attend Industry Events: Participate in workshops, seminars, or conferences related to your field. These events provide opportunities for networking where you can practice interpersonal skills like active listening and effective communication.
Join Professional Organizations: Becoming a member of relevant professional organizations allows you to connect with others in your field while showcasing your commitment to professional development.
4. Volunteering for Projects
Consider volunteering for projects within community organizations or non-profits where you can apply business techniques:
Lead Initiatives: Take the lead on initiatives that require planning and execution using VMOST analysis or gap analysis frameworks. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your resume but also allow you to demonstrate leadership qualities.
Collaborate with Diverse Teams: Working with diverse groups will help hone your teamwork abilities as you’ll need to navigate different perspectives and communication styles.
5. Requesting Feedback
Finally, actively seek feedback from peers or mentors regarding both technical competencies and soft skills:
Peer Reviews: After completing projects, ask colleagues for their input on how effectively you communicated ideas or collaborated as part of the team.
Mentorship Programs: Engaging in mentorship programs provides an avenue for receiving constructive criticism on both hard and soft skill areas from experienced professionals.
By combining these strategies—building a comprehensive portfolio, utilizing online platforms effectively, engaging in networking opportunities, volunteering for relevant projects, and seeking feedback—you can convincingly demonstrate both your soft skills and practical experience to potential employers outside of traditional interview settings.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Harvard Business Review
Harvard Business Review provides insights into management practices including the importance of soft skills in the workplace as well as effective methods for demonstrating these skills through various means such as portfolios.
2. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning offers courses focused on building professional portfolios and enhancing soft skills necessary for career advancement; it emphasizes practical applications of business strategies like VMOST analysis.
3. American Management Association (AMA)
The AMA discusses best practices in leadership development including how professionals can showcase their competencies through real-world applications such as volunteer work or project-based experiences.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
GOD BLESS YOU MORE!
The Little Aussie Battler.
Nada Lopes
IT Software
123
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Nada’s Answer
Hi Angy,
This is a great and very common question. Honestly, a career can often change several time in your journey, so don't be fearful of finding the perfect job straight away!
There is some great advice above. So here's a breakdown of some top resources to help search for the right job for you:
1. General Job Boards:
* Indeed: A giant in the job search world. Tons of variety, good filtering options, and you can often apply directly through the site.
* LinkedIn: More than just a social network. LinkedIn has a robust job board, and it's great for networking and researching companies. Make sure the student has a polished profile!
* Glassdoor: Besides job listings, Glassdoor offers company reviews, salary information, and interview insights – helpful for researching potential employers.
2. Niche Sites:
* Industry-Specific Boards: Encourage the student to explore boards within their field of interest (e.g., marketing, tech, healthcare). Many professional associations host job boards too.
* Company Websites: Often, the best way to find out about opportunities is to go straight to the source. Most companies have a "Careers" section.
3. Tips for Using Job Boards:
* Keywords are Key: Help the student brainstorm relevant keywords for their searches.
* Set Up Alerts: Job boards allow you to save searches and receive email alerts for new postings.
* Tailor the Resume: Each application should be customized to the specific job description.
4. Beyond Job Boards:
* Networking: Attend industry events, career fairs, and alumni gatherings. Personal connections can be invaluable.
* Company Websites: Directly checking company websites for career opportunities can be surprisingly effective.
* Social Media: Following companies and recruiters on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can provide leads.
Important Note: It's crucial for the student to be aware of potential scams and to protect their personal information during the job search.
I hope this advice is beneficial. And remember, your career is a journey, not a destination. You may start in one area and end up in another - there are not short cuts in life. That's completely fine. Embrace the journey!
This is a great and very common question. Honestly, a career can often change several time in your journey, so don't be fearful of finding the perfect job straight away!
There is some great advice above. So here's a breakdown of some top resources to help search for the right job for you:
1. General Job Boards:
* Indeed: A giant in the job search world. Tons of variety, good filtering options, and you can often apply directly through the site.
* LinkedIn: More than just a social network. LinkedIn has a robust job board, and it's great for networking and researching companies. Make sure the student has a polished profile!
* Glassdoor: Besides job listings, Glassdoor offers company reviews, salary information, and interview insights – helpful for researching potential employers.
2. Niche Sites:
* Industry-Specific Boards: Encourage the student to explore boards within their field of interest (e.g., marketing, tech, healthcare). Many professional associations host job boards too.
* Company Websites: Often, the best way to find out about opportunities is to go straight to the source. Most companies have a "Careers" section.
3. Tips for Using Job Boards:
* Keywords are Key: Help the student brainstorm relevant keywords for their searches.
* Set Up Alerts: Job boards allow you to save searches and receive email alerts for new postings.
* Tailor the Resume: Each application should be customized to the specific job description.
4. Beyond Job Boards:
* Networking: Attend industry events, career fairs, and alumni gatherings. Personal connections can be invaluable.
* Company Websites: Directly checking company websites for career opportunities can be surprisingly effective.
* Social Media: Following companies and recruiters on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can provide leads.
Important Note: It's crucial for the student to be aware of potential scams and to protect their personal information during the job search.
I hope this advice is beneficial. And remember, your career is a journey, not a destination. You may start in one area and end up in another - there are not short cuts in life. That's completely fine. Embrace the journey!
Quirdia Robinson-Ahmad
Counseling Administrator/ Intake
4
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Quirdia’s Answer
The role is highly valued across various organizations and typically requires some level of education, such as a certificate or college degree. To stand out in this position, it is beneficial to have a strong grasp of Microsoft Office Suite and SQL (or similar database management systems).
Ok so you’d suggest getting a grasp of SQL(which I kinda already have since I studied that in school) and Microsoft suite, do you think it’ll be beneficial to actually get a certificate on hose field while actually learning those things. My biggest worry was that the job required a degree, and that they wound t hire international and 18 years old. Do you think it’s gonna be hard for me to land such role? Also a remote one?
Angy
The market is huge and finding an entry level position shouldn't be difficult, but the issue will come with finding position that are willing to sponsor an international employee. This would require deep searching for position's willing to accept employees that are not US bound. You may want to look into larger companies who have companies both local and international.
I would recommend pursuing a degree but if you can meet the requirements for both a degree and certificate, that would be a great move.
Quirdia Robinson-Ahmad
Hey thanks for the reply, I wouldn’t actually require a sponsorship, just hire me as a contractor or through a employer of record, for the degree, I am not really willing to go that route so do you think that without one this will be a problem. Also I am now getting free certifications, those will be enough or it may require a paid certification like ECBA
Angy