How to Get Into Business Analytics With No Experience

Businesses have access to almost unlimited data. Every Instagram like, purchase, mobile app download or internal task creates a trail of information. By itself, though, data doesn’t help much with decision-making.

Companies need skilled analysts who can sift through millions of data points and make sense of them. And demand is high. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of management analysts will increase by 9% between 2024 and 2034.¹

Of course, breaking into this field takes more than a knack for Microsoft Excel. This blog post explains how to get into analytics with no experience, including must-have skills and tips for building a portfolio.

What Is Business Analytics, and Why Is It Growing? 

Business analytics uses data to help organizations make smarter decisions and better understand their customers. It involves gathering and processing data, such as customer ratings and sales records. Analysts use statistics and software to interpret this information and recommend improvements.²

Analytics can support all sorts of decisions, from which marketing channel to use to how many products to manufacture this quarter. For example, Target uses supply chain data to decide where to store products so they can get shipped to customers faster.³

You don’t need a background in tech to solve these types of problems. People explore how to get into business analytics because they enjoy using data to make decisions and troubleshoot issues.

Technology has also made this field more accessible. With software like Tableau and Microsoft Power BI, you can analyze huge datasets without writing a single line of code. You also usually don’t need advanced math skills, at least for entry-level roles.

Job security is another major consideration. While many organizations are experimenting with AI-powered analytics, they still need savvy humans to double-check the results and make decisions. That means the demand for business analysts will likely stay strong.

Essential Skills for Starting a Career in Business Analytics

It’s possible to get into data analytics with no experience, but you’ll need the right skill set.

It starts with data literacy. You should learn how to track and interpret performance metrics. For example, your employer may ask you to analyze attendance records to identify low performers who may need extra support.⁴

Business acumen is key, too. If you understand the inner workings of your company, you’ll be able to use data to solve business problems. It’s what lets you turn raw data and statistics into actual strategy. If you notice customer ratings are declining, for instance, you could analyze metrics such as support response times and the number of shipping errors. From there, you can recommend ways to fix the issue.

Core Technical Skills

As you build your business analyst toolkit, focus on these essential skills:⁵

• Statistical analysis: Business analysts need a firm grasp of statistical methods, including hypothesis testing and regression analysis
• Data visualization: Software like Tableau allows you to turn complex datasets into accessible visuals
• Programming languages: Python and R help manipulate data and build predictive models

Many analysts also use Structured Query Language (SQL) to organize and query datasets. This tool is often better suited for big data than Microsoft Excel, because it lets you work with information in relational databases.⁶ You might use SQL to look for connections between customer demographics and what they order.

Valuable Soft Skills 

Business analytics isn’t just about crunching numbers. It also requires strong interpersonal skills to put that data to work.

Excellent communication is essential.⁵ If you can’t explain your findings to stakeholders, they won’t be able to make informed decisions.

Critical thinking and problem-solving are also vital. These skills help you pinpoint what’s causing issues and suggest the best solutions.⁵ For example, if you discover that long support times are frustrating customers, you might recommend adjusting scheduling so that more reps are available at peak times.

How To Get Into Data Analytics With No Experience: Actionable Steps 

You don’t necessarily need to go back to school to start a career in business analytics, though it can speed up the process. There are plenty of ways to build foundational knowledge and gain hands-on experience.

Before you commit to formal education, try self-study. Platforms like Coursera and the Cisco Networking Academy offer free online courses for data analytics. These self-paced classes teach basic skills, such as data storytelling and SQL. They can help you get a feel for the field and decide if you want to go further.

If you prefer a more structured approach, consider a boot camp or a graduate degree. Professionals with many years of experience in business analytics typically teach these programs, offering personal guidance and sharing their hard-earned wisdom. You’ll also network with other aspiring business analysts, which may lead to lasting relationships.

No matter which path you choose, practice applying what you’re learning to real projects. Volunteer to build a predictive model for your current employer, or offer to analyze a dataset that’s been gathering dust. An entry-level internship is another excellent way to tackle new challenges and get feedback.

Building Your Portfolio and Professional Network

Anyone can claim they excel at data visualization or statistical analysis. Back up your claims by displaying your projects in a digital portfolio. Add a short description of what you did for each one, so potential employers can understand your process. This concrete evidence will help them see your skills in action.

And don’t underestimate the value of networking. Go the extra mile to connect with other analytics professionals at industry events and online. For instance, r/businessanalysis on Reddit has over 100,000 members who swap tips and share their achievements.⁷ These connections can help you learn about career opportunities and get practical advice.

Launch Your Analytics Career With an Online MSBA from William & Mary

Developing core skills and hands-on experience can help you get into analytics, no matter your background.

Accelerate your development with William & Mary’s Online Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA). This flexible program has a rigorous curriculum taught by seasoned experts. You’ll also earn a Foundations in Business Analytics Certificate in the first five months, immediately boosting your resume.

Get started by exploring the curriculum and admissions criteria. You can also schedule an appointment with an admissions outreach advisor or contact us directly for more information.