An IT business analyst plays a critical role in a company’s productivity and profitability, so it’s no surprise that the position requires important skill sets. From good communication skills to problem-solving and critical thinking, a business analyst must be a master of many trades. Because it’s one of the most sought after jobs in the IT industry, you’ll need to make sure your resume fits the position you’re pursuing. If you want to craft a killer resume that’s sure to attract the attention of hiring managers, here’s what you need to include — and what’s best left out.
What to Include in a Business Analyst Resume
There are many paths to becoming a business analyst. You may have success at jobs in accounting, as an IT specialist, or as a project manager. What really matters is that you have a work history that shows you have exceptional analytical skills to solve complicated business problems. Be sure your resume meets these criteria:
- Tailor your resume to each company’s specific job opening. A business analyst’s duties vary from organization to organization, and industry to industry. Research the company online, carefully read the job description, and then make sure your resume highlights the skills each company is looking for.
- Many recruiters quickly scan resumes so consider adding a summary statement. Your summary tells your unique story. Use it highlight your business analysis accomplishments.
- Make sure your previous job titles are bolded, and think about adjusting them to attract the hiring manager’s eye. That doesn’t mean making up positions you never held; rather, use words that coincide with what a business analyst does.
- Use the correct terminology that best demonstrates your capabilities. For example, one industry may use the term “data testing,” while another prefers “user acceptance testing.”
- Include all relevant on-the-job training and any continuing education or graduate degrees you’ve completed or attained. And don’t forget to mention professional associations and business networks you belong to.
What to Leave Out
Even if you’re applying for your first business analyst position, it’s possible to write a resume that will help you stand out — so forego some of the traditional advice you might receive. Don’t include a catalog of your entire work history or skills. Yes, a business analyst fulfills a lot of roles, but you don’t want your resume to say you are a jack-of-all-trades. Instead, think of your resume as a sales document — and the commodity being sold is you. Aim for emphasizing the skills and experience that speak to the desired position.
You’re in High Demand
So many businesses today need highly skilled business analysts. You can improve your chances at landing the job you want by making sure your resume says “hire me!” The more you can show a hiring manager how well you would fit within the company’s culture, the better chances you have of
getting the interview and landing the job.
An IT business analyst plays a critical role in a company’s productivity and profitability, so it’s no surprise that the position requires important skill sets. From good communication skills to problem-solving and critical thinking, a business analyst must be a master of many trades. Because it’s one of the most sought after jobs in the IT industry, you’ll need to make sure your resume fits the position you’re pursuing. If you want to craft a killer resume that’s sure to attract the attention of hiring managers, here’s what you need to include — and what’s best left out.