Graham Birch
Senior Sales Operations Analyst
Thermo Fisher Scientific
09/22/2020
What is working as an analyst like?
Sales operations analysts support sales teams with data and analytics so they can make effective
business decisions.
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Analysts should expect to:
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Develop reports and dashboards with software such as Microsoft Power BI.
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Use SQL queries with data warehouse products such as Amazon Redshift.
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Apply relational database knowledge to organize data from queries.
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Validate data.
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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.
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Knowledge of relational databases is also incredibly important.
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Salesforce is excellent software to learn.
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Salesforce is built so you don’t need to know how to code.
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You can learn a lot about Salesforce for free on Trailhead.
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Salesforce is currently booming with career opportunities.
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Understand Agile software development.
- Many companies are implementing Agile methodologies for an organized approach to developing projects.
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A lot of companies are already using Agile in some way.
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Tableau is another useful tool for analysts.
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Microsoft Excel
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Know how to automate reports and dashboards.
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Automation allows you to compete with other analysts that may be more experienced.
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Knowing how to write formulas and use pivot tables can help you get a head start on learning other tools such as Power BI.
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Effective business writing distinguishes you from others.
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It also helps you produce elements of the Agile framework, such as user stories, test plans, and smoke tests.
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A willingness and ability to learn on the fly is essential.
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Develop presentation skills.
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Take every opportunity to practice presenting.
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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.
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IT internships can also lead you into an analyst position.
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Do not be afraid to apply for a job that you are not qualified for.
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Companies often list their ideal qualifications and they are not always must-haves.
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What are some useful certifications to start with?
Career tips and info:
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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.
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Put things on your resume that you are excited to talk about.
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Network as much as you can.
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Having the right reference can go a long way in getting you the job.
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Check your LinkedIn network for any connections that work at the company you are applying for.
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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!
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Before going into your interview, research the applications they mention in the job description.
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If you are confident that you can learn them quickly, make sure to say so.
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