| Topic Name: |
some career help? |
| Message Name: |
Business analyst track |
| Date Posted: |
08/28/2001 |
| In Reply To: |
Hi,
I was wondering if any of the ppl on this board could help me w/ this one.
I am a IT developer and have about 5 years exp. programming in java/C++, etc.
I am kind of at a crossroads right now where i need some direction. I am satisfied with my job right now, but in the long term i see 2 major problems.
1) the lack of upward mobility -- basically i don't think i will move up and i will always be at this same level for a long time
2) the constant need to stay cutting edge -- basically, i need to constantly keep learning the latest technologies to stay marketable. For now i can do that but in the long term, the industry will produce more technology than i can absorb.
People tell me that i should focus on being a manager. But the problem is I need to stay at a job long enough to "put in my time" and move up the ranks (but i might get laid off or something and go back to ground zero). Plus, I am not sure if i really want to manage.
Ideally, I want a job where i can program but using English instead of a programming language. That way, i get to use my analytical skills and w/o having to stay current on the latest tech (english won't change too much in my lifetime). Are there any jobs like this? I am thinking more along the lines of buisness analysis. And if so, how would i begin going about getting one? Any insight would be appreciated. thanks in advance.
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| Message: |
Unfortunately, most business analyst tracks start with business training, not programming training. The usual procedure is to bring in a salesman, or an MBA, and have the techie brief this person into the business process.
If you'd like to move from being a techie to an analyst track, start by learning how to talk the talk. Business people often presume IT personnel has poor communication skills, and you have to prove you can talk. Offer to give technical briefings, or maybe an informational lecture or two to help put the technology into context for non-techies. At least get your colleagues used to the idea that you are a techie who also understands business needs and can communicate it well.
Then keep an eye open for internal openings, and cross your fingers. You might also want to get familiar with people who'd hire business analysts and hint your interest to them.
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