How to start a career in Business Intelligence?

Business Intelligence is a great way to start a career in the IT world. Why? It's hard not to notice how important data is for modern businesses. Properly collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data allows for making key decisions that have tangible support. Business analysis enables planning effective actions with desired outcomes and provides entrepreneurs with crucial guidance when making decisions about the development or strategy of their company.

Working as a Business Intelligence Developer is an exciting opportunity for precise and detail-oriented individuals who possess strong logical thinking skills. Typically, BI Developers have previous experience working with data and have been employed in the financial sector. Wondering how to kickstart your career in Business Intelligence? We have compiled some helpful tips to help you spread your wings in the world of business analytics!

Business Intelligence: where to start?

Your path to starting a career in Business Intelligence largely depends on your current circumstances: whether you are a recent high school graduate considering your college options, or an established professional seeking to transition into the field of Business Intelligence. 

• In the first case, you might consider pursuing higher education in fields such as computer science, mathematics, or management with a specialization in data analysis. If you already have a bachelor's, master's, or engineering degree, there's still a chance for you to pursue postgraduate studies. It's a good way to enhance your qualifications.
• If you don't want or can't pursue higher education, an excellent solution for you would be intensive IT courses that prepare you for a career as a Business Intelligence Developer. Training typically lasts several weeks (depending on the intensity of learning). When choosing the right course, pay attention to several important issues:

1. What system will the classes be conducted on - online or offline? This is an important consideration, especially if you're currently working or studying. If you live in a small town where it's difficult to find high-quality specialized training, or if you travel frequently, online courses may be a great solution.
2. Who will be teaching you? It's important to have mentors who not only have professional experience but also possess the ability to effectively convey their knowledge and are willing to answer their students' questions.
3. Will you have the opportunity to complete practical assignments during the training? This is important to ensure that the training prepares you not only theoretically but also practically for the job. Practical tasks and case studies will not only help you reinforce the knowledge you have gained, but also teach you how to apply it in your future career.
4. Will completing the course alone be enough to qualify you for a junior-level job? Of course, the requirements for a Junior Business Intelligence Developer position depend primarily on the expectations of the employer, but when choosing a course, pay attention to whether the training program meets current market needs and will actually help you find employment.
5. Is it possible to pay for the course in installments? This is an important consideration if you have limited financial resources. Being able to spread the cost of the course over several installments can help you afford it. If installment payments are an option, be sure to check whether they are interest-free.

Of course, you can try to learn Business Intelligence on your own using tutorials or books, but if you have no prior experience with data analysis, lack of professional support can be a significant obstacle. That's why it's crucial to consider seeking help from experts whenever possible. Not only will they provide you with structured and comprehensive training, but they will also be available to answer your questions and help you overcome any obstacles you may encounter along the way. By investing in professional support, you can accelerate your learning process and ensure that you're equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in a career in Business Intelligence.

Are you interested in working in BI? See what salary a Business Intelligence Developer can realistically expect. Also, check out our 18-week Business Intelligence course which will provide you with the necessary knowledge and preparation to enter the industry!

Have you already completed your studies or a course? Do you have the necessary qualifications? It's time to prepare for job applications!

First and foremost, give special attention to your portfolio. Remember, it's your portfolio (not your CV) that will showcase your skills, so be sure to select your projects thoughtfully.

Secondly, make sure to complete your LinkedIn profile. A professional photo, an interesting description, and, importantly, recommendations from your previous colleagues are elements that a potential employer may take into account. Expanding your professional network on LinkedIn is a great way to increase your chances of finding a job.

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Thirdly, if you don't have any professional experience, consider starting with an internship or practical training. This will not only help you "fill in the gaps" in your CV, but also give you a chance to apply your newly acquired skills in practice. When choosing internship or training opportunities, make sure to pay attention to whether the program will truly allow you to spread your wings.

We hope that these tips will help you enter the IT industry. Good luck!