Data Analyst Review

My role involves working with structured and unstructured data. Using multiple tools like Excel and Tableau, to be able to filter through, clean and work with data, find the best ways to show data to stakeholders and find solutions to issues which may arise. My day is never the same, a real fast paced role with insights into all areas of technology.

I hadn't used Excel since school, I have been given the time and space to be become an Excel whizz as well as learning SQL and Python. The skills the apprenticeship teaches are varied and interesting. I love that I get to learn a bit of code as well as business useful skills such as time management and stakeholder management.

I enjoy meeting new people on the online classes. The fact that classes are online saves myself and the companies time and money and I feel that everyone gets the full benefit from online classes. It's easier to learn to code together when on a live coding room and working together.

The organization of the programme has been the biggest issue. At first, dates continued to get changed on classes last minute and the meeting links weren't getting shared correctly, resulting in missed classes and miscommunication but now that has all been fixed, it is running smoothly and how it should be.

My employer has been fantastic. We're trusted to do our own work and given the freedom of managing our own diary, being given the time and opportunities to peruse our own learning, having the tools such as Linkdin Learning and Pluralsite on top of what is already provided, to upskill ourselves in a way that we find best.

I meet every month with a training coach, where we review work, talk through projects and discuss classes. I find these useful as a chance to learn more, find guidance or even just vent about a frustration. It's also made clear that if you need more support, it is as easy as just sending an email to request.

I believe it gives me the skills to settle into my role and then continue to consider my next move and how to continue progressing. Both companies offer a mentor scheme which is also useful for discussing career steps, advice and issues. The day-to-day knowledge is useful but the apprenticeship gives you a deeper understanding of what and mainly why you are doing certain things.

It is encouraged that you take part in extra-curricular activities. There is a chance to arrange or attend social events, from something as small as a coffee to team wide lunches, activities and there are plenty of areas in office to get involved in physical activities, from sports to random activities such as bee keeping.

Yes

The company fully supports your growth as well as giving time to explore your career. You're given time to talk to other departments, to have insights in a number of roles and you can openly discuss what your aspirations are to be able to grow. It's also encouraged that you be yourself so you can be open in your working areas.

Do your homework on the companies history and the history of the industry that you're applying for, showing a wider and deeper knowledge can be helpful at the start of your interview. Come prepared with questions and show an interest. Make sure you be yourself and you'll be great.