Three Qualities that All Great Business Analysts Possess - and One Bonus Quality!

What exactly is a business analyst?
 
The International Institute of Business Analysis provides this job description,
 
"A business analyst works as a liaison among stakeholders to elicit, analyze, communicate and validate requirements for changes to business processes, policies, and information systems. The business analyst understands business problems and opportunities in the context of the requirements and recommends solutions that enable the organization to achieve its goals."
In this post, we’ll discuss these must-have qualities of all great business analysts:
  • Creative and Enjoy Problem-Solving
  • Excel at Critical Thinking and Communications
  • Use Business Analytics Tools and Software
  • Bonus Trait (This One Is Really Important!)
The business analyst profession can be financially and personally rewarding, and mCubed can help you find a great position, with a great company.
 
So let’s dive right in!
 
Business Analysts Are Creative and Enjoy Problem-Solving
BA’s look for realistic solutions in the context of the problem, in all of its different aspects, and considering all stakeholders. They must be analytical and detail-oriented, but creative at the same time.
 
They enjoy the challenge of a specific business problem to be solved, and business process improvement in general. But they’re always conscious of time constraints and deadlines.
 
Business Analysts like to work on problems that require out-of-the-box thinking to come up with feasible, real-world, implementable solutions.
 
Excel at Critical Thinking and Communication
Analytical skills and creativity are important, but strong communication and critical thinking skills are also essential.
 
Business analysts must be able to assemble tons of information and data in the aggregate. The BA needs to know where to go to get all relevant information, both from sources inside and outside of the company
 
This information must then be modeled, analyzed, and coalesced into a comprehensive, cohesive format. The final crystallized view of their findings must then be presented in a clear, concise format to all stakeholders.
 
Use Business Analytics Tools and Software
Good BAs use business analytics tools and software like Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and MS SQL. Google and Tableau are additional tools that a tech-savvy BA might utilize.
 
The BA should have a high level of knowledge of how to use these business analytics tools and software. They must know each tool’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the tasks each tool is best suited for.
 
And now for the bonus skill. Drum roll, please!
 
A Great Business Analyst Should Have Great Interpersonal Soft Skills
BAs will be presenting often complex and abstract ideas and concepts to stakeholders in face-to-face meetings and interactions. This takes a special level of interpersonal communication skills.
 
Are you a candidate looking for a business analyst job?
At mCubed Staffing, we help clients just like you find that perfect job every day! We might just have a great employer looking for a great candidate like you right now.
 
Call us today at (248) 817-2243, or get in touch online. Our expert recruiters are waiting for your call.