What is working as a business analyst like?

I'm considering majoring in something related to business or finance, but I'm not entirely sure what a business analyst does. What kind of tasks do they typically handle, and what skills do they need?

In the simplest terms, a business analyst acts as a bridge between a company's business problems and their solutions. They typically work with data to help their organizations make more informed decisions.

Key tasks for a business analyst include:

1. Requirements Management: A large part of a business analyst's job involves discovering, synthesizing, and managing the requirements of a project or business process. This often includes conducting interviews, facilitating meetings, and collaborating with stakeholders to understand their needs.

2. Data Analysis: Business analysts interpret data and analyze business trends to develop ways to improve business operations. Tools like SQL, Excel, and software like Power BI and Tableau are often used.

3. Problem-Solving: When business problems arise, it's the business analyst's job to devise strategies for improving processes and systems. This may involve troubleshooting, brainstorming, and consulting with team members.

4. Project Management: Business analysts often oversee projects from inception to completion. They're tasked with ensuring projects stay within budget, meet their timelines, and achieve their goals.

Key skills for a business analyst include:

1. Analytical Skills: Business analysts use these skills to conduct research, understand data, and generate solutions. They might need to create data models, use data visualization tools, and interpret statistical analysis.

2. Communication Skills: The ability to communicate effectively with various team members at all levels of an organization is crucial for business analysts. They need to explain complex ideas in ways that teams can understand and apply.

3. Problem-Solving Skills: Business analysts need the ability to solve complex business challenges, which requires a strategic approach to problem-solving.

4. Technical Skills: Knowledge of databases, systems, software, and platforms is important, as business analysts often must integrate technology into their solutions. They don't necessarily need to be able to write software, but they need to understand how systems work to aid in problem-solving.

Overall, the job can be very dynamic and intellectually stimulating. It combines analytical tasks with a high level of interpersonal interaction, making it an ideal job for someone who enjoys problem-solving and working with others.