When I was learning about data analytics ,I thought a data analyst would be building dashboards and constantly analyzing data. But after working as a data analyst for a year I realized there’s more to it. It’s not all about crunching numbers, there’s also a lot of non-technical work too.
Below are some things I do besides analyzing data:
1. Documentation
One essential but overlooked part of a data analyst job is documentation. It’s important not only for yourself but also for the entire team/company. For example, documenting SQL queries with clear comments and having a version history has saved me so many hours. It’s easy to forget the logic behind a query after a few weeks, so keeping everything documented is vital.
2. Presentation
Analyzing the data and finding insights isn’t the final step. Once that’s done you have to present your findings and recommendations to stakeholders. It’s one of the most important jobs of a data analyst. I have to be able to translate complex data into understandable stories that can influence business decisions.
3. Collaboration
My role often involves collaborating with other departments and stakeholders. Whether it’s about an upcoming project or I need information from then. But one of the key partnerships is with the product manager (also the person who trained me). I take time to understand upcoming projects and align our data projects with these. It’s vital for ensuring that we’re analyzing and looking at the right data to support the company’s goals.
4. Research
Data analytics is always changing, and staying up-to-date means being proactive about learning. I regularly spend time researching new analytics techniques and tools that we can use at our company. It’s crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and innovation of our analytics.
5. Planning
Planning and project management is fundamental. It’s more than just scheduling tasks, it’s about setting clear objects, prioritizing the right projects, and aligning them with the business objectives. I keep things simple and use a mix of Google Calendar, Google Tasks and Google Docs to manage projects, it helps break them down into actionable steps.
Conclusion
The variety of work in data analytics is one reason why I find it so enjoyable. It’s not just about analyzing data; it’s about using that data to solve problems, make decisions, and gain insights into the company. The role requires a blend of technical skills, strategic thinking, and collaboration, which makes each day different and challenging. If you’re curious about what my day-to-day tasks look like check out this blog post: A Day in the Life of a Data Analyst.