How to Hire Your First Entry-Level Business Analyst
Hiring the right business analyst can be a catalyst for your organizational growth. Business analysts are known for quickly climbing the corporate ladder. In some cases, a successful business analyst can rise to executive-level positions like CTO.
Careers in business analysis tend to sell themselves to prospective employees. Salary is one of the most appealing characteristics, with a median income of up to $86,000.
Read on to learn how to hire your first reliable, professional, entry-level business analyst.
Education Requirements
The first thing to look for with an entry-level business analyst is an appropriate education. Business analysts often have a 4-year college degree from an accredited institution.
There are a few majors that employers should look for. In general, a concentration in business administration, information systems, or analytics is preferred.
Many business analysts seek a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) to further their career. It is possible to find a junior-level analyst with an MBA.
Work Experience
Obviously, you won’t find many entry-level workers with a lot of experience. Even so, you do want to hire someone with a demonstrable work ethic.
This is reflected in an employee’s resume in several different ways, such as a part-time job held throughout college. It may also present itself in an extracurricular activity or volunteer position. Many employers prefer to hire entry-level workers that have completed an internship in a relevant business-related position.
Conduct an Interview
Once you narrow down the resumes, it is time to hold interviews. This is your chance to get face-to-face with prospective employees.
One of the primary goals of the interview process is to ensure that prospective employees have the right skills. Business analysts depend heavily on communication and interpersonal skills. The interview gives each candidate the opportunity to build chemistry with your team and show off their speaking skills.
Problem-solving is another skill required for business analysts. This is a little more challenging to demonstrate in a resume.
You will have to inquire about these skills with probing interview questions. Ask the candidate to explain a problem that they experienced in school or work. Then, press the prospect to communicate how they solved this issue.
Another quality to look for is strong analytical skills. The candidate should point to a work or school project that highlights this skill set.
Take-Home Tests
To improve the success rate for business analyst hires, many companies are getting creative. They are asking candidates to complete a take-home test.
The objective of the test is to confirm the prospect’s commitment level and skill set. It might cover analytical and problem-solving skills, culture fit, and industry knowledge.
Hiring the Right Entry-Level Business Analyst
Because an entry-level business analyst has the potential to grow in their role with your company, choosing the best candidate is important. Following these steps can help you find the right person for the job—the first time.
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