The most important labor market skills - how to become a data analyst?

In recent years, new professions have escalated, which are no longer the preserve of a specific group of people, thanks to increasingly developed technologies.

Data analysis is a broad field that started from the past, in simpler forms than the current situation, and not as modern as some think, but its importance has become great in recent years, due to the development of resources as well, and the escalation of their availability.

The job demand for them of all kinds has become so great, that in the last two years they have been classified as a first-class field of demand, whether in companies or even in self-employment.

A data analyst is a professional responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to provide actionable insights to businesses. Data analysts use their skills in mathematics, statistics, and computer science to understand data and extract useful information from it. In this simplified guide we will introduce you to what this work is, and its basic needs.

The field of data analysis is expected to grow at a much faster than average rate in the coming years. For example, according to the United States Bureau of Labor, it released a statistic in which the number of jobs for data analysts is expected to grow by 26% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average of all jobs by 4%. This has already happened until this year, and the growth may have been faster than this growth.

In the Arab world, accelerated investment in major countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates is opening new markets with investment dimensions in various fields, and the need for this activity is expected to increase significantly in the coming years.

What are the responsibilities of a data analyst?

The responsibilities of a data analyst include:

● Data collection: from a variety of sources, such as databases, text files, and websites.

● Data cleaning: to remove errors and discrepancies.

● Data processing: Convert data into a format that can be easily analyzed.

● Data analysis: Using data analysis tools to discover patterns and insights.

● Create reports: to view the results of the analysis.

● Presentations: to explain the results to stakeholders.

● Network: with stakeholders to understand their needs and make recommendations based on data analysis.

What skills are required for a data analyst?

The skills required for a data analyst include:

● Strong and objective analysis: the ability to understand complex data and extract useful information from it.

● Problem solving: The ability to identify and solve problems using data.

● Some programming languages + appropriate analysis tools: It is the ability to use data analysis tools and specialized programming languages such as R language, as well as Python.

●There are many tools for data analysis, starting with the simplest such as Excel, and large programs approved by companies such as Microsoft and others.

● Effective communication: Ability to write reports and make presentations effectively.

Critical thinking: The ability to objectively evaluate information and make informed decisions.

●Attention to detail: the ability to identify errors and discrepancies in data.

What are the educational requirements for a data analyst job?

Data analysts typically require a bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates who have experience in a particular field, such as healthcare or finance.

But there are also many who do not have a university degree in the same discipline who have been able to enter the field and succeed in it excellently.

Therefore, we recommend that the primary motivation be not only the educational certificate, but also attachment to the field itself and its practices. If you are a fundamentally analytical person, that is, you like to know what things are, and you deal well with numbers and perceptions, then this field may be your goal.

What is the salary of a data analyst?

The salary of a data analyst varies depending on location, experience, and qualifications. Of course, salaries are different in the Arab world than in the Western world, and there are places where per capita incomes are low, and vice versa. But the average global income for a data analyst could range from $25,000 to $100,000 a year.

Self-employment may of course vary from place to place depending on the nature of the contract.

What are the job expectations for data analysts?

The field of data analytics is expected to grow at a much faster than average rate in the coming years. This is due to the increasing reliance of companies on data to make decisions. Thus, it is expected that there will be a high demand for data analysts in the coming years.

How to become a data analyst?

Here are some steps you can take to become a data analyst:

● Have a university degree: in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field.

● Gain experience: through internships or related jobs.

●Learn data analytics skills: through online courses or tutorials.

●Get certified like Certified Analytics Professional (CAP).

●Create a professional profile on online recruitment sites, such as LinkedIn and Indeed, and we recommend accessing suitable freelance sites in your country.