Ever heard of reverse engineering? If not, it’s an awesome secret weapon that anyone can use to achieve a desired outcome. For instance, you want to be an analyst but you’re not sure where to start. Research your favorite analysis guy or gal and study their trail of success. While your approach may not be linear to theirs, incorporating similar activities will bring you that much closer to your target. So you ask, “what should I do first?”

1. Review analytics openings in the marketplace on LinkedIn, Indeed, Zip Recruiter, your alumni college network or career center, Handshake, Career Builder, etc. Sift through the requirements of the role. Understand the desired experience the role requests and “analyze” your work history to compare what skills you already have versus what you’d need to gain.
2. Search for professionals in analytics roles to view their work history. LinkedIn makes this information so accessible, no excuses there!
3. Put together a plan of action to become an analyst by adding education to your experience, if needed, via certification programs and/or vocational schools. You’ll be pleasantly surprised that there are several nonprofit organizations available that specialize in reskilling career seekers such as The SkillUp Coalition (https://www.skillup.org).
4. Find a mentor. Again, LinkedIn makes finding a mentor accessible by searching for professionals in the field, networking with them and over time you’ll create solid connections. Also try subscribing to analytical industry publications and join analyst groups available within the LinkedIn community.
5. Research internships, seek-out low stakes (entry-level to junior) analyst roles or volunteer analytics opportunities to build your business acumen and credibility.

Tying it all together

Following the above tips will move you in the right direction to pivot your career. Before you know it, you’ll have the skills and experience needed to be an analyst! Remember, these methods can be applied to any career path. Do your research, connect with others in your field of interest, seek to understand their road to success and chart out a path of your own.