Graham Birch

Senior Sales Operations Analyst

Thermo Fisher Scientific

09/22/2020

What is working as an analyst like?

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Sales operations analysts support sales teams with data and analytics so they can make effective
business decisions.

  • Analysts should expect to:​

    • Develop reports and dashboards with software such as Microsoft Power BI.

    • Use SQL queries with data warehouse products such as Amazon Redshift.

    • Apply relational database knowledge to organize data from queries.

    • Validate data.

    • Train others and communicate in a way that promotes the understanding of complex systems.

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What are some useful tools and skills?

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  • SQL is vital for any analyst at any level.

  • Knowledge of relational databases is also incredibly important.

  • Salesforce is excellent software to learn.

    • Salesforce is built so you don’t need to know how to code.

    • You can learn a lot about Salesforce for free on Trailhead.

    • Salesforce is currently booming with career opportunities.

  • Understand Agile software development.

    • Many companies are implementing Agile methodologies for an organized approach to developing projects.

    • A lot of companies are already using Agile in some way.

  • Tableau is another useful tool for analysts.

  • Microsoft Excel

    • Know how to automate reports and dashboards.

    • Automation allows you to compete with other analysts that may be more experienced.

    • Knowing how to write formulas and use pivot tables can help you get a head start on learning other tools such as Power BI.

  • Effective business writing distinguishes you from others.

    • It also helps you produce elements of the Agile framework, such as user stories, test plans, and smoke tests.

  • A willingness and ability to learn on the fly is essential.

  • Develop presentation skills.

    • Take every opportunity to practice presenting.

    • This skill can help you become one of the go-to trainers in your department.

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How can I begin this career path?​

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  • Working helpdesk can get your foot in the door and lead you to analyst.

  • IT internships can also lead you into an analyst position.

  • Do not be afraid to apply for a job that you are not qualified for.

    • Companies often list their ideal qualifications and they are not always must-haves.

 

What are some useful certifications to start with?

 

 

Career tips and info:

  • When looking for a job, consider looking for positions that will enable you to learn the most rather than positions that pay the most. This will be more valuable in the long-term.

  • Put things on your resume that you are excited to talk about.

  • Network as much as you can.

    • Having the right reference can go a long way in getting you the job.

      • Check your LinkedIn network for any connections that work at the company you are applying for.

      • You can also check the connections of the people in your network to see if any of them work at your desired company. If so, ask for an introduction - a lot of people are happy to help!

  • Before going into your interview, research the applications they mention in the job description.

    • If you are confident that you can learn them quickly, make sure to say so.

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