The Future is Analysis: How High School Graduates Can Build a Career in Business Analysis

Business analysts are professionals who help organizations improve their operations and financial performance. They do this by analyzing data, identifying trends and patterns, and making recommendations for changes that can lead to increased efficiency and cost savings. Business analysts can work in a variety of industries and organizations, including finance, healthcare, technology, and government.

One of the key responsibilities of a business analyst is to gather and analyze data. This may involve collecting data from multiple sources, such as financial statements, customer surveys, and industry reports. The business analyst will then use this data to identify trends and patterns that can inform the development of recommendations for improving the organization's operations.

Another important responsibility of a business analyst is to work with stakeholders to develop and implement solutions. This may involve collaborating with managers and other leaders within the organization to understand their needs and goals. The business analyst will then use this information to develop solutions that can help the organization achieve its objectives.

In addition to these responsibilities, business analysts may also be involved in project management, budgeting, and forecasting. They may also be involved in training and mentoring other members of the organization.

High school graduates can find job openings as Business analyst in entry level roles such as:

Business Analyst - Intern: This is a great starting point for a high school graduate interested in a career as a business analyst. Interns will work under the supervision of experienced business analysts and will learn the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field.

Data Analyst - Entry Level: This role is a great option for high school graduates with strong analytical skills and an interest in working with data. Data analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to support business decisions.

Operations Analyst - Entry Level: This role is an excellent choice for high school graduates with an interest in understanding how organizations operate and how to improve their performance. Operations analysts work to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase revenue.

Marketing Analyst - Entry Level: This role is ideal for high school graduates with an interest in understanding consumer behavior and how to use data to inform marketing decisions. Marketing analysts analyze data to identify trends and patterns that can inform the development of marketing strategies.

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The salary range for business analysts can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and industry. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for business analysts in the U.S. was $85,260 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $58,190, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $126,830.

Some other sources can provide different salary ranges depending on location, industry and level of experience:

• According to PayScale, the average salary for a business analyst in the United States is around $65,000 per year, with a range of $45,000 to $96,000.

• According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a business analyst in the United States is around $71,000 per year, with a range of $50,000 to $100,000.

• According to Indeed, the average salary for a business analyst in the United States is around $80,000 per year, with a range of $60,000 to $110,000.

It is worth noting that business analysts in major cities and in industries such as finance, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail tend to earn higher salaries than those in other industries.

In summary, the salary for business analysts can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry. Entry-level business analysts typically earn less than experienced business analysts but its a good start for high school graduates.

In conclusion, Business analysts play a vital role in helping organizations improve their performance by analyzing data, identifying trends and patterns, and making recommendations for changes. High school graduates can find entry-level job opportunities in the field, including positions as business analyst intern, data analyst, operations analyst, and marketing analyst. These roles can provide a great foundation for a career in business analysis and allow individuals to develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field.