Non-tech students often find it difficult to comprehend career options — let alone high paying career options. The key reason for this is that they do not develop a habit of reading the newspaper and do not put thought into what the companies are doing to generate business and do not keep track of innovations in technology, services and process systems.
For example, the students need to be aware of how does a company make its moneyIJ How many business units does it have and what do they doIJ Who are their customers and why do their customers pay so much moneyIJ How many non-tech people work and in what domainIJ
The answer to all this is analytics — to be precise business analytics. Business analytics is the key to a sharp and solid business. Business analytics has been around for 10 plus years and yet the non-tech students are yet to realise its true potential. Every decision be it for HR, marketing, finance, procurement, logistics, production or any other business unit is taken basis a single sheet of paper that the analytics team generates in the company.
Since millions worth of decisions are a derivative of past results and activities. Analytics tools today enable a business analyst to predict the outcomes with a very certain degree of precision — hence an analyst will remain in demand for quite some time to come, be it any industry.
However, their mode and methods of operation will evolve. Their approach will become proactive by degrees, timelines will be shortened and e-commerce and mobile commerce will play a bigger role. Evolution of customer connect models will help companies understand their customers better and quality of service will hold fort.
Predictability and engagement modeling are likely to evolve first in the next five years.
High paying jobs go to those who deserve them – to qualify - you need to work on building your profile, excel in communication — specially spoken and written English, be able to talk about the business models and what good and successful companies have done and how were they successful — case studies and projects.
Talk about what the leaders are doing, the tools companies are deploying to measure day to day activities and then look at further improvement.
Clearly demonstrate your learnings and intent to prospective employers, willingness to adapt and change, be able to support your colleagues and help those falling behind, be a part of a team. The prospective employer is looking for solid proof and not sweet and positive words in your CV copied from some template.
lastly – remember you may be desperate for a good job but the company too is desperate for a good and qualified person. It works both ways.
The writer is Dr Rushen Chahal, director, Mangalmay Group of Institutions, Greater Noida