#BE

Tag: #BE

Business Analysts: Roles and Responsibilities

A business analyst is a specialist who uses data analysis to assist companies improve their software, services, products, and procedures. These experts’ main goals are to recognize company requirements and resolve business issues. They serve as a liaison between IT teams and stakeholders, promoting mutual understanding and communication. Depending on the sector, a business analyst’s responsibilities might vary greatly, but generally speaking, they include setting project scope, setting priorities, and making sure that the solutions being used really address the goals of the company. In order to guarantee that investments in change provide favorable returns, business advisers are essential in helping organizations navigate technological advancements, process enhancements, and strategic adjustments. These experts collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify needs and highlight any problems that could be hurting a company’s bottom line. Here are some of the roles and responsibilities of a business analyst:

  •  Data Analysis: Business Analysts continuously examine data in an effort to find problems that might have unintended consequences. 
  • Tech Research: Successful business analysts research technology advancements to modernize systems and processes
  • Presenting Findings: Business analysts have meetings with appropriate stakeholders to communicate findings and provide presentations that highlight their findings.
  • Developing Projects: A large portion of the work performed by business analysts is classified as special projects. Similarly, they are in charge of coming up with projects that assist companies in overcoming the difficulties of the contemporary corporate environment. 
  • Change Management: Since a business analyst is really a change agent, they must manage the changes they make as they go. They must be skilled in change management, which entails testing new or modified procedures and monitoring the effects of the changes once they are put into place inside your company, in order to accomplish this without creating confusion.

These are some of the skills required to be a business Analyst:

  • Analytical thinking: Business Analysts are expected to have exceptional analytical abilities since their jobs demand them to look at and solve difficult issues, identify patterns, and find relevant significance in huge raw data.
  • Strong Communication and Socialization skills: A Business analyst role requires a person with good people skills and strong communication abilities, since part of their tasks and responsibilities involve gathering requirements from numerous stakeholders. Strong interpersonal skills are also essential, as they facilitate the development of stronger bonds between your hired business analysts and management as well as enable them to work with many teams with ease.
  • Technical Skills: Business analysts must have exceptional technical abilities and use the newest data analysis tools since modern firms need modern solutions. The ones that are knowledgeable with PowerBI and SAS as well as a variety of computer languages are more likely to be successful business analysts. 

Careers with Entrepreneurship Major

Multidisciplinary skills from an entrepreneurship major can help you land business, marketing, and sales positions in an organization. Before starting their own business, many people with degrees in entrepreneurship work for well-established organizations that support their professional objectives. This gives them the opportunity to raise money or obtain practical entrepreneurial experience. An entrepreneur, at its most basic, starts a firm from a profitable concept or item. Entrepreneurs pinpoint a social issue, create a remedy, and raise the funds required to transform their concept into a profitable company.

A degree in entrepreneurship can lead to the following positions:

  1. Advertising, Promotions and Marketing Manager

Managers of advertising work closely with sales representatives to create and oversee campaigns that spark interest in a good or service. Marketing managers are responsible for managing various facets of business operations, such as brand positioning, content management, and market research. In order to optimize earnings for their employers, they also monitor market trends. The responsibilities of an advertising manager and a promotions manager may coincide as both positions’ main goal is to persuade clients to follow instructions and purchase goods or subscribe to a service.

  1. Sales Manager

Sales managers set sales targets, allocate sales quotas, and assess the viability of new product launches for their companies. Periodically, they report on their progress to the leadership team after analyzing sales data. Junior sales representatives are usually hired, trained, and supervised by sales managers. Whether a sales manager works in a business-to-business or business-to-consumer paradigm, their field of choice is frequently determined by their areas of interest and skill.

  1. Management Analyst

Increasing organizational efficiency is a priority for management analysts and consultants. They do a thorough operational assessment for the client, locate any bottlenecks, and make recommendations on how to increase output and revenue. To guarantee long-term success, management consultants also follow up with customers on a regular basis. Although a sizable portion of management analysts opt to operate on a contract basis with different clients, the majority of these specialists are employed inside.

  1. Market Research Analysts

Market research analysts gather, examine, and present information about competitors, consumer behavior, and general business circumstances. To obtain insightful information about the market, they employ a variety of techniques, such as focus groups, surveys, questionnaires, customer interviews, third-party reviews, and competition analysis. These experts can predict market trends, assess the effectiveness of current marketing tactics, and suggest improved promotion plans that will increase sales and consumer happiness based on their study.

  1. Financial Analysts

Financial analysts assist businesses and individuals in choosing profitable investments. By analyzing the company’s financial records, researching market trends, and weighing the risks of particular stocks and bonds, financial analysts can forecast business outcomes. Financial analysts are engaged by IT firms as well as the banking and insurance industries.

  1. Operations Manager

Operations managers are in charge of all everyday tasks related to the manufacture and distribution of goods. To guarantee effective workflow, they make personnel schedules, operational budgets, and resource allocations to the relevant departments. They guarantee that tasks are finished on schedule and within predetermined budgets.

HR 101: Your Guide to a Rewarding Career Helping People

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes to keep a company running smoothly? Enter the fascinating world of Human Resources (HR)!

Think of HR as the backbone of any organization. They handle everything related to its most valuable asset: its people. It’s a dynamic field that goes beyond writing paychecks. HR professionals play a crucial role in:

  • Recruitment: Sourcing, screening, and interviewing top talent to bring the best people on board.
  • Onboarding and Training: Helping new hires adjust to the company culture and equip them with the skills they need to succeed.
  • Employee Relations: Addressing employee concerns, mediating conflicts, and ensuring a positive work environment.
  • Compensation and Benefits: Administering salaries, bonuses, and a range of employee benefits packages.
  • Compliance: Ensuring the organization adheres to labor laws and regulations.

But wait, there’s more! HR isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Here’s a glimpse into some specialties:

  • Talent Acquisition Specialists: The rockstars of recruiting, they find and attract qualified candidates for open positions. Think job postings, resume reviews, and interview coordination.
  • Training and Development Specialists: Focus on building and delivering programs to help employees develop their skills and advance their careers.
  • Compensation and Benefits Analysts: Design and administer employee compensation packages, including salaries, bonuses, and health insurance plans.
  • HR Business Partners: Strategic partners who collaborate with different departments to ensure HR practices align with the organization’s overall goals.

Why HR?

If you enjoy working with people, have a knack for problem-solving, and are passionate about creating a fair and positive work environment, HR could be your calling.

Ready to Dive In?

  • Internships: Gain valuable hands-on experience through HR internships offered by many organizations.
  • Network: Connect with HR professionals. The Career Center can help you connect with alumni and other HR professionals to gain insights into the field.
  • Explore Resources: Websites like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM: https://www.shrm.org/) and HR Certification Institute (HRCI: https://www.hrci.org/) offer valuable information and resources.

Remember, your liberal arts education and strong interpersonal skills are assets in HR. So, if you’re looking for a career that lets you make a difference in people’s professional lives, HR might be the perfect fit for you!

Unleashing Your Inner Entrepreneur: From Intern to Idea Machine

Internships – sometimes they’re data entry and filing, other times they’re life-changing experiences. But what if we told you every internship, no matter how “mundane,” holds the secret sauce to igniting your entrepreneurial spirit? Boom! Mind blown.

Think of your internship as a laboratory for your inner innovator. Here’s why:

1. Peek Behind the Curtain: You’re seeing how a real business ticks. Observe how decisions are made, problems tackled, and customers engaged. This insider knowledge is gold for understanding what makes businesses thrive (or dive).

2. Idea Oasis: Every task, every meeting, every overheard conversation is a potential goldmine for ideas. Is there a process that could be streamlined? A customer pain point begging for a solution? Boom! There’s your spark.

3. Network Ninja: From colleagues to clients, you’re surrounded by potential mentors, collaborators, and even future investors. Be open, friendly, and connect with those who inspire you. Remember, your network is your net worth (figuratively, of course).

4. Skills Bootcamp: Hone your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Learn how to manage projects, navigate deadlines, and present your ideas with confidence. These are the tools every entrepreneur needs in their arsenal.

5. Fail Forward: Mistakes happen, even (especially) during internships. But guess what? That’s how you learn and grow. Embrace the bumps in the road as stepping stones to brilliance. Remember, Thomas Edison had a thousand failed lightbulb attempts before he got it right. So, experiment, iterate, and don’t be afraid to fall – just get back up even faster.

Now, unleashing your inner entrepreneur doesn’t mean quitting your internship tomorrow and launching a unicorn startup (although, if you have a killer idea, go for it!). It’s about cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset: being proactive, creative, and resourceful. Here are some practical tips:

  • Keep a notebook handy: Jot down ideas, observations, and questions that pop into your head.
  • Talk to everyone: Ask questions, seek feedback, and share your own thoughts. You never know where inspiration might strike.
  • Seek out challenges: Volunteer for new projects, suggest improvements, and take initiative. Be curious and ask questions. The more you understand, the more you can contribute.
  • Connect with local entrepreneurs: Attend meetups, workshops, and events. Learn from their experiences and build your network.
  • Read like a sponge: Devour books, articles, and podcasts about entrepreneurship, innovation, and problem-solving.

Remember, your internship is a launchpad, not a destination. Use it to experiment, learn, and build your entrepreneurial toolkit. Who knows, maybe by the end, you’ll be the one offering internships!

Bonus Resources:

So, go forth, intern-preneurs! Unleash your inner idea machine, embrace the challenges, and remember, the world needs your unique brilliance. Now get out there and change the game!

Preparing for Internships in Business: Setting the Stage for Success

Internships are like the dress rehearsals for your future career in the business world. They provide invaluable hands-on experience, help you bridge the gap between theory and practice, and open doors to exciting opportunities. But, securing a meaningful internship requires careful preparation and strategic planning. As you prepare for internships in business, here are some essential steps to help you set the stage for success.

1. Self-Reflection and Goal Setting

Before diving into the internship application process, take some time for self-reflection. What are your career goals? What specific skills or experiences do you hope to gain from this internship? By clarifying your objectives, you’ll be better equipped to identify the right opportunities and tailor your application materials accordingly.

2. Resume Enhancement

Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers. Ensure it showcases your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Highlight coursework, extracurricular activities, and any relevant projects or volunteer work. If you lack direct business experience, emphasize transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. Consider using our resume AI tool, VMock to receive personalized feedback and make your resume stand out. Advisors and Career Peer Educators are also available to review your resumes.

3. Networking

Building a strong professional network can significantly enhance your internship prospects. Attend employer info sessions (even the virtual ones!), alumni events, and networking sessions. Connect with alumni and other professionals on LinkedIn and don’t be afraid to reach out for informational interviews. Personal connections can provide valuable insights and referrals.

4. Research Internship Opportunities

Start your search for internships early. Look for opportunities on Handshake, company websites, job boards, and industry-specific platforms. Pay attention to application deadlines and requirements. Don’t limit yourself to the most well-known companies; smaller firms and startups can offer equally rewarding experiences.

5. Interview Preparation

When you secure an interview, be ready to impress. Long before even being invited for an interview, start practicing common interview questions and prepare thoughtful answers that illustrate your qualifications. You can utilize Big Interview to prepare for interviews and build your confidence. When you do have an interview scheduled, research the company thoroughly, including its culture, recent news, and industry trends. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer to show your genuine interest.

6. Professional Attire

Dress appropriately for interviews and networking events. Business attire may vary by industry, but it’s generally better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Ensure your appearance is clean, neat, and professional.

7. Follow-Up

After interviews or networking events, send personalized thank-you notes or emails to express your appreciation for the opportunity to connect. This gesture demonstrates your professionalism and genuine interest in the role.

8. Internship Skill Building

While you await internship offers, continue developing your skills. Consider online courses or workshops to gain specific knowledge relevant to your field of interest. Building your skill set not only makes you a more attractive candidate but also boosts your confidence. Consider completing an internship project simulation through Forage.

9. Stay Persistent

The internship search can be competitive, and rejection is a part of the process. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Instead, use them as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay persistent in your efforts and keep refining your approach.

10. Seek Guidance from a Career Advisor

Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with me, or any of the career advisors at the Career Center. We can provide personalized guidance, review your resume, conduct mock interviews, and offer insights to enhance your internship search. We’re here for you – now, during internships, throughout your time at Lawrence, and after graduation.

Preparing for internships in business requires a combination of self-reflection, skill development, networking, and meticulous planning. By taking these steps, you’ll increase your chances of securing a meaningful internship that will pave the way for a successful career in the business world. Remember, internships are not just about gaining experience; they’re about discovering your passion and potential. So, seize the opportunity, and set the stage for your future success.

AI – Efficiency Tools to improve your chances of getting hired

A big part of job searching and applying for jobs is being able to use the resources you have available to your advantage. Over the last few years, I’ve learned about and used many different types of software to try to make this process easier. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have grown in popularity in recent years due to their ability to provide valuable assistance in a wide range of tasks. Here are four free AI tools that I have previously used to help you stand out from the crowd and improve your chances of landing your dream job:

  1. Quillbot: This AI tool allows users to rewrite sentences in a more fluent, efficient way that sounds more professional. This can be especially helpful when writing a resume or cover letter, as it can help you present yourself in a more polished and sophisticated manner. Visit Quillbot’s webpage.
  2. Canva: Canva is an excellent tool for creating visually appealing marketing materials, such as LinkedIn header images or social media posts. By using Canva to create a professional-looking header image, you can make a strong first impression on potential employers and showcase your personal brand. Visit Canva’s webpage.
  3. VMock: This software is specifically designed for Lawrence students looking to create a resume from scratch or improve their current resume. VMock provides a score on how your resume compares to other Lawrence students’ resumes and offers feedback on areas for improvement. Visit VMock’s webpage (sign in with your Lawrence Email)
  4. ChatGPT: ChatGPT is a strong artificial intelligence platform that allows users to interact with it as if it were a person. By submitting your CV to ChatGPT, you can request a summary of your previous experiences or suggestions on how to improve your wording. ChatGPT may also assist you on ways to better highlight your skills and accomplishments, as well as how to tailor your CV to a certain position or industry. Visit ChatGPT’s webpage.

Whether I needed to rewrite my resume in a more professional manner, generate a visually appealing LinkedIn header image, or obtain feedback on my resume, I discovered how much these AI tools had helped me, and my hope is that after you read this article you will be able to benefit from them as well.

Don’t hesitate to reach out or schedule an appointment with me if you have any questions about any of these powerful resources, or if you need help with your process of looking for a job or an internship.

Oliver De Croock ’24, Student-Athlete at Lawrence University majoring in Economics and Career Peer Educator. Connect with me on LinkedIn.