How Do I Start a Career in Business Intelligence?

An individual who is interested in pursuing a career in business intelligence should have obtained certain credentials tied to the use of computer programs. This field requires that professionals apply strategies that are computer based in order to analyze sets of data. Subsequently, analytical skills are similarly vital because other decision makers rely on the business intelligence, including past, present, and future assessments on profits, provided by these professionals to function. In order to become qualified for a career in business intelligence, you should earn a bachelor's degree and be willing to begin in an entry-level role.

Obtaining a college education is a solid first step in pursuing a career in business intelligence. A degree in computer sciences or information systems might prove beneficial. In lieu of industry experience, if you are a new graduate, you should certainly demonstrate a teachable attitude to a potential employer. By serving in an entry-level role in business intelligence, the right attitude could make room for career advancement.

Familiarize yourself and obtain the necessary training on the software solution standards that are current in business intelligence. SAP is a common if not fundamental business intelligence program used throughout the world. Employers may require candidates have expertise in some knowledge-specific SAP programs to qualify for a career in business intelligence.

Obtain proficiency in several computer software programs in order to begin a career in business intelligence. For instance, in data warehousing, a component of business intelligence that involves the display of data and stored information in templates, you may need to have experience with extract, transform, and load (ETL) functions. Possibly, you may be expected to perform techniques including electronic data capture for the purpose of displaying clinical data research used in drug research and clinical testing. Experience in data warehousing and ETL can support your venture into a career in business intelligence.

Teamwork is often an essential part of any business intelligence division at an employer. In order to be successful in a career in business intelligence, you should demonstrate an ability to be part of a team and display leadership skills. Although much of the work in this field may seem independent and involve viewing databases and forming reports, there is also a degree of collaboration that is required to achieve broader corporate goals. Also, you should be comfortable liaising with top executives who rely on business intelligence for matters such as future business expansion.