data analystData is everywhere. Businesses today are learning that tapping into the wealth of available data is hugely beneficial. Data on its own is worthless—it has to be analyzed before it can be of any use. Data analysists get to work with this data—gathering and examining it, and then feeding their conclusions back to their employers. Read on for our top reasons to pursue a career as a data analyst.

You’re in high demand

In today’s technological society, companies are relying more and more on data. However, data is completely useless unless someone can interpret and analyze it. There are more opportunities for data analysts now than ever before. Businesses are now prioritizing data analytics over many other areas. Data analysts are in demand, and many companies will pay larger salaries to attract the very best professionals in the industry. With an interest in figures and in scrutinizing data, and a relevant educational background, such as a bachelor’s degree in statistics and a graduate certificate in data analytics online, you should always have plenty of job options.

Analytics is key in decision-making

Analytics is a top resource for many businesses, and it’s likely to grow in importance over the next few years. Currently, only basic analyses are being carried out on a large amount of data, and there is so much more that could be done to utilize it. Most business people would probably agree that analytics is the chief element that leads to a better capacity for making decisions. The level of importance of data analysis to businesses means that as an analyst, you’d be instrumental to the company’s success. Data analysts, therefore, often experience a high level of job satisfaction, especially when working with a company that they like and respect.

Data analytics is growing

Advances in technology are allowing businesses the opportunity to analyze large sets of data in more sophisticated ways than ever before. Such analytics are giving businesses an advantage over their competitors, which, along with the introduction of analytic tools at an even faster rate than before, creates a snowball effect. Today, most companies have a data-gathering and analytics strategy in place, or they are looking to establish them. With such a growth comes the need for trained professionals to implement these strategies or, in some cases, put them together before executing them.

However sophisticated the world’s data collection tools are becoming, they are nothing without skilled professionals to understand the data that is produced. Analysts not only understand it, but they also consider what it means from the perspective of the business, and then they form conclusions for the company directors. Data analysts need to be effective communicators, as well as having a deep interest in figures and data. However, for the right person, this can be a rewarding role with potentially a high salary. A degree in a relevant field is a requirement, but if your bachelor’s degree is unrelated, a master’s degree is just as good, if not better, in terms of securing a top job. If you have a mind for numbers and attention to detail, and enjoy problem solving, a career as a data analyst could be for you.