In order to become a corporate analyst, a degree in business is usually required. It is also helpful to understand math, economics and data analysis principles as well. Finally, a person who wants to become a corporate analyst should generally try to gain practical business experience whenever possible.
Although there are different types of corporate analysts, generally the job function of all corporate analysts is to do an in-depth evaluation of companies and industries to provide research information covering various aspects of the corporate entity. Corporate analysts may research many aspects of a company including financial stability, profit margins, organizational structure, and growth potential. Therefore, a strong understanding of the inner workings of a business is usually required to become a corporate analyst.
Getting a college or university education, especially one that focuses on business, is usually a good start for a person who wants to become a corporate analyst. A four-year academic program strong in accounting, finance, investment banking, wealth management, merger and acquisitions, and related subjects will help the would-be corporate analyst achieve the knowledge and understanding that is needed to be able to analyze companies. An advanced business degree, or an MBA, may also be a strong asset.
While acquiring a degree, it usually is advisable to intern with a corporation or two. This will assist applicants in gaining practical experience and in helping a perspective analyst to decide which type of industry is most exciting or interesting to them. Some colleges and universities provide internship opportunities to business majors where they can earn academic credit while beginning the path to becoming a corporate analyst.
If their college or university does not offer internships, students can personally contact company recruiters of corporations and inquire about how to work there as an intern. Interning in two or more companies may be even better as this will broaden the applicants' experience, widen their network, and build their portfolio. Part-time jobs and volunteer positions are also can be good ways to gain valuable experience and contacts.
Becoming a certified public accountant (CPA) may also be a helpful step in becoming a corporate analyst. The road to becoming a CPA in the United States entails taking the certification exam and becoming licensed. Applicants generally must be licensed in the particular state they plan to work in, as each state within the U.S. has its own requirements for licenses.
When creating a resume, applicants typically should state their educational background, work experiences, licensing and certifications acquired, as well as other special qualifications. It should also include a list of any leadership roles, whether in school, in the community, or in a work setting. The ability to work well with teams is a quality often sought after by corporations, so being able to manage and to work with teams may be a plus.
Typically, an applicant should study the corporations at which he would like to become a corporate analyst, and reach out to the recruiters of those firms. He generally should also scour the newspapers and the Internet job boards for openings and arrange to be interviewed. During the interview, if given the opportunity, applicants generally should exhibit a clear interest in business, finance, and strategy, and demonstrate their understanding of the basic principles of corporate finance as well as an aptitude for analytics.
After candidates have submitted their resumes and been interviewed, a follow-up is often recommended. Be proactive. Building up a database of companies for which applications have been sent can be helpful. Candidates should persist in their efforts until they get the job they hope for, and in the meantime, they should continue to expand their education and first-hand experience.
