Breaking Into Data
Introduction
According to the most recent International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Big Data and Analytics (BDA) Spending Guide, Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) spending on BDA solutions is expected to register a compounded annual growth rate of 13.3% in the five years between 2021-2026, and hit US$8.9 billion by 2026.
The data industry is booming with an increasing demand from employers for staff who can manage and leverage data assets. There's never been a better time to transition into a career that offers huge opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact.
Personally, I took this leap in data end of 2021 and commenced a Bootcamp before transitioning into a Data Analyst role with an ASX-listed financial services firm. Since then, I've combined data analytics industry knowledge and recruitment skills to build DR Analytics Recruitment, a leading name in sourcing data professionals for Australian businesses.
Whether you're an aspiring data scientist, data analyst or data engineer, here are strategies to employ if you're looking to make the dive into data lakes.
#1 Take Ownership of Data Management at Your Current Workplace
If you're already employed but are eager to transition into a data-centric role, why not start where you are? Speak to your managers and colleagues about how data is used and can be leveraged within your organisation. Take the initiative by volunteering to handle small data projects.
For example, in beginning my own data journey, I volunteered to build a PowerBI dashboard for the recruitment agency I was working with. The project aim was to identify high-value clients and give other consultants visibility of where the best return on time was to be found. This proactive step not only added to my portfolio but gave me the first look at enterprise data use an exposed multiple skill gaps.
Use this sample email to begin taking the first step!
#2 Offer Your Skills for Free to Gain Experience
While it's wonderful to get paid for your skills, offering your services for free initially can be a significant step in gaining practical experience. Reach out to local businesses or startups and offer to help them with their data needs. Whether it's data cleaning or data visualisation, offering your skills for free will help you gain real-world experience and can even result in job offers down the line.
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY: DR Analytics Recruitment is seeking to take on an intern one day a week to help with data management and a data visualisation project. Reach out directly to express interest!
#3 Network Intentionally by Adding Value
When it comes to career transition, your network is your net worth. Consider attending industry-specific meetups, conferences or virtual events related to data and analytics. Remember, the key is to offer value first. Rather than directly asking for job opportunities, engage in meaningful conversations, offer insights, and share your skills. By establishing yourself as a value-added contact, you'll be on top of the mind of people when opportunities arise.
Example networking events to consider attending are Microsoft Meetups, AWS Meetups, Python Meetups and Data Engineering Meetups. The Meetup app / website is the best avenue to find out about these events.
#4 Upskill Using Reputable Bootcamps and Online Resources
You cannot sidestep the need for specialised skills in the data industry. But the good news is there are numerous bootcamps and online courses available that can help you get there. Choose a specific domain you're interested in—like becoming a Power BI developer—and focus your energies there. Known bootcamps and credible online resources can provide you with the structured learning environment you need to excel.
Word of advice: personally, online Udemy and Coursera certifications don't hold as much weight compared to a Bootcamp or a Microsoft/AWS certificate. There are bootcamps developed for individuals seeking to break into data. Happy to recommend the Data Analytics Institute who offers both learning and internships in one package!
#5 Announce Your Intentions and Share Your Journey
Being open about your aspirations and the direction you are looking to take your career is paramount. Update your LinkedIn title to something like 'Transitioning into [desired role]' to announce your intentions publicly. Share articles, write posts, or even document your learning journey online. There's a beautiful concept called 'Learn In Public' which is where you share your progress online with others. This not only keeps you accountable but also brings visibility to your profile. You never know who in your network could help connect you to your dream job in data.
Conclusion
Breaking into the data industry might seem like a monumental task, but remember: all it takes is one yes or one break and you're in. I've made the leap myself and hope these insights provide value.
In relation to strategy #2, DR Analytics Recruitment is seeking a data-driven individual to take on as an intern. There are three data visualisation, mapping and management projects that have been scoped for the next three months. The right person will receive mentoring, industry experience and one-on-one advice on how to secure a full-time position - get in touch via LinkedIn to learn more!
If you're a business looking to leverage your data or a data professional seeking exciting opportunities, feel free to reach out to DR Analytics Recruitment, where we make perfect matches between businesses and data experts.
For further inquiries and support, contact Douglas at DR Analytics Recruitment. Our mission is to be the technical experts for data and analytics recruitment across Australia.
