10 Tips For Maximising Your Business Analyst Job Search

Are you in search of a BA Job or just looking to step up your BA career?

Many suggestions to help your career may seem quite obvious, but can often be overlooked or not fully explored.

The career choices you make will become a primary factor in defining your Business Analyst career. No matter how great you think your experience and skill set is, you need to effectively communicate this in your job search. Too many people think they are perfect for a job role or contract, but forget there is a lot of competition out there. Here are 10 tips to help your career and job search, particularly if you live in the UK.

Some of these tips can also be tailored and applied to your job search, regardless of your location. 

1. Search for BA jobs

Job sites are still the number one source for hires in the UK. Utilise specialist niche job sites that have a wide choice of Business Analyst jobs – Examples are Business Analyst Jobs and Technojobs.

2. Review your CV

This is your most important career tool and you should spend sufficient time on it. So many CVs are either badly formatted, have key information hidden or are too lengthy. Get your CV reviewed by a professional. Highlight the key experience, achievements and qualifications that are relevant to the BA role you are applying for at the top of your CV.  

3. Create a LinkedIn profile

Here is your opportunity to create a public CV. Again, put in some effort here, as this is where employers may view your skills and experience. LinkedIn also provides the opportunity to connect and keep in touch with other BA professionals.  

4. Upload Your CV to Job sites

Did you know that approximately 30-40% of all jobs do not get advertised? In most cases, recruiters or employers will use their existing network to shortlist candidates. They will also access CV Databases offered by job sites. Make sure your CV can be found with all the right keywords.

5. Network

Make the most of the Business Analyst events, conferences or meetings you attend. Networking is a great way to meet new contacts that may be able to refer or recruit you.   

6. Become a Subject Matter Expert

Demonstrate your knowledge and passion for business analysis to potential employers. This may be achieved through blogging, conducting research or publishing content on specialist BA websites.

 7. Explore contract jobs

If you have prior experience, broaden your job search to include contracting. There is a massive demand in the Business Analysis field for contractors in the UK and this can be very lucrative financially while providing a platform for you to meet different clients on diverse projects.  

8. Get qualified

Work towards achieving the relevant Business Analyst qualifications or certifications, especially if you are looking at contract positions. The client will expect you to hit the ground running so you need to make sure your skills are up-to-date.  

9.  Manage your online presence

Manage your online profile. Many employers will “Google” you before hiring so always ensure that anything published online or on social media in general, will do you and your career justice without any negativity. 

10.    Be proactive

Be confident in following up on job applications or contacting your network on employment opportunities. Really - Don’t hold back so that you do not miss out. Chase recruiters so they know how serious you are.

Your Business Analyst career should be driven by you, so maximise any opportunity that comes your way and always be proactive. 

The Author

This article was written by Anthony Sherick who set up Business Analyst Jobs to provide a job site and career information dedicated to Business Analysts.

Picture Attribution: “Jobs Word Means Hire Me And Employ” by StuartMiles/Freedigitalphotos.net