Back to all episodes
Episode 3
February 15, 2026

Demystifying the Data Analytics Career with KT

In this episode of 'About the Job,' we dive into the world of data analytics with KT, a passionate data analyst who shares her journey, insights, and experiences in the field. Discover what it takes to become a data analyst, explore the typical day-to-day responsibilities, and learn about the career progression opportunities in this dynamic and evolving industry.

Guests

KT
Data Analyst

Topics Covered

Data AnalyticsCareer ProgressionInterview ProcessSkills for Data AnalystsTech Industry Insights

Summary

In this insightful episode, KT, a seasoned data analyst, joins the "About the Job" podcast to shed light on the ins and outs of data analytics. KT discusses her journey from a math major to a data analyst, the skills required for the role, and the various career pathways available in the field. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities of a data analyst and get valuable advice for breaking into this exciting career.

Key Topics

  • What a Data Analyst Does
  • Educational Pathways and Skill Sets
  • Day-to-Day Responsibilities
  • Career Progression in Data Analytics
  • Common Misconceptions About the Role
  • Interview Process and Tips
  • The Future of Data Analytics
  • Personal Insights and Experiences

Timestamps

  • 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest, KT
  • 01:45 - What does a data analyst do?
  • 04:10 - KT's educational background and career journey
  • 08:30 - Responsibilities of different types of data analysts
  • 12:00 - A typical day in the life of a data analyst
  • 15:25 - Career progression options for data analysts
  • 20:00 - Interactions with other roles and departments
  • 23:40 - The dynamic nature of the job
  • 27:50 - The interview process for data analysts
  • 34:10 - Skills to focus on for aspiring data analysts
  • 38:45 - Resources and tools for data analysts
  • 42:00 - The importance of mentorship
  • 46:15 - Common myths about data analytics
  • 49:30 - What KT enjoys about her job
  • 53:00 - Challenges and overcoming mental blocks
  • 57:20 - Future trends in data analytics
  • 01:01:50 - Personal insights and favorite activities
  • 01:10:00 - KT's website and social media

Resources & Links

Key Takeaways

  1. Understanding the Role: Data analysts play a crucial role in analyzing data to help businesses make informed decisions. The job involves a mix of technical skills, problem-solving, and communication.

  2. Educational Pathways: While a degree is beneficial, there are alternative routes like certifications and bootcamps that can also lead to a career in data analytics.

  3. Essential Skills: Proficiency in SQL, basic statistics, and familiarity with data visualization tools like Power BI and Tableau are vital for data analysts.

  4. Career Progression and Flexibility: Data analytics offers various career progression paths, including moving into data science or management roles. The field also offers flexibility with opportunities for remote work and freelancing.

  5. Industry Trends: The demand for data analysts is growing, with an increasing focus on technical skills and specialization within the field.

  6. Mentorship and Networking: Having mentors can provide valuable guidance and help overcome biases, ensuring ethical and unbiased data analysis.

Listeners interested in data analytics will find this episode packed with practical advice and personal insights from KT, making it a must-listen for anyone considering a career in this field.