Key Skills for Business Analysts in Tech

Jul 15, 2024

Key Skills for Business Analysts in Tech

Introduction

  • Business Analyst at Spotify since 2019
  • Background in Music Business, not Business Analytics
  • Learned through mentorship, colleagues, and trial and error
  • Three key skills: Technical Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Strategic Thinking & Business Sense

Technical Skills

Importance

  • Crucial for answering business questions using large data sets
  • SQL is indispensable for pulling data from databases
  • Excel and Google Sheets are vital for organizing and visualizing data

Learning SQL

  • Beginners: DataCamp’s free introductory SQL course for basic logics and commands
  • Advanced/Interview Prep: Leetcode or Interview Query for real interview questions from companies like Facebook and Google
  • Key SQL Functions: pivot tables, sumifs, vlookups, index/match
  • Utilize Google for learning and problem-solving

Data Wrangling in Excel/Google Sheets

  • Use raw data from SQL for organizing and visualizing
  • Practice by playing around with data for internships or seeking data-related tasks in current roles
  • Learn by observing experienced analysts and practicing the tasks

Problem-Solving Skills

Approach to Problem-Solving

  • Break down ambiguous questions into smaller, structured pieces
  • Use data to answer each smaller question, consolidate insights, and provide business recommendations

Example: Root Cause Analysis (Netflix MAU Decline)

  1. Impact Size: Duration and magnitude of decline
  2. Geography: Global or specific market
  3. Seasonality: Recurring pattern?
  4. Other relevant questions

Communicating Insights

  • Use top-down communication: start with key message, then provide details
  • Watch mock case interviews and presentations for structure and style

Relevant Experience

  • Internships: Consulting, Insights, Analytics, Market Research
  • Focus on learning to turn data into actionable insights and storytelling

Strategic Thinking & Business Sense

Turning Data into Insights

  • “So What?” exercise: Think about the actionable insights data provides
  • Role play as CEO to think strategically about data application

Example: Netflix MAU Decline

  • Impact Size: Alarming decline needs large-scale actions
  • Trends: If trends are recurring or abrupt, decide on bug fixes or feature adjustments
  • Demographics: Target specific age groups with tailored strategies

Learning and Applying Strategic Thinking

  • Pause before data analysis to consider the implications and applications of data
  • Regularly converse with cross-functional teams (marketing, user research, product) to understand broader business operations

Conclusion

  • Focus on honing technical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills
  • Gain insights from cross-functional conversations

Sponsored by GlassesUSA.com: Affordable eyewear with various beneficial features