A decision analyst uses statistical methods to determine which strategies are most effective for a business. This kind of professional commonly uses techniques that allow him or her to analyze the potential impacts of different variables at one time. To become a decision analyst, your first step should be to earn a degree in a field such as mathematics or statistics. Many professionals in this field also have graduate degrees, even though this credential is not always required by employers. A graduate program, however, can introduce an individual who wants to become a decision analyst for software commonly used in the industry and also can act as a great networking opportunity.
The responsibilities and level of a decision analyst vary from company to company. One organization, for instance, might require a decision analyst to communicate directly with executives and upper level managers. In other scenarios, a decision analyst might generate reports based on their findings, which they can pass on to their supervisors, who then meet with executives.
To become a decision analyst, it is a good idea to begin getting professional experience as soon as possible. For many aspiring analysts, this means taking internships while studying for degrees. While internships are not paid experiences, they do provide students with firsthand experience that makes them much more appealing to employers. As a matter of fact, it is common to find employers requesting that job applicants have at least one year of experience performing quantitative analysis. This experience can be hard to come by if you graduate without first acquiring it.
One option for an individual who would like to become a decision analyst is to use resources provided by academic programs. It is common for schools to hold job fairs. Some academic programs might even invite recruiters who are looking specifically for analysts to come to campus and meet promising students.
If you do not find a job through your school, your next step should be to research trade publications and websites. To become a decision analyst, you should familiarize yourself with these resources anyway, since they often contain information about current software and methods being used in the field. They might also contain lists of job openings.
Another good option for a person who would like to become a decision analyst is to join professional organizations for individuals who specialize in mathematics and statistics. These groups offer members opportunities to attend development courses. They also allow professionals to network.
