The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Junior Data Analyst (Non-HR Focus)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Strong foundational SQL, Excel, and data visualisation skills. A good understanding of how data flows in a business. You'll need to learn the HR domain quickly.
You're ready to move on when
- Can independently write complex SQL queries for data extraction.
- Has built and maintained dashboards for business stakeholders.
- Can clearly explain analytical findings to non-technical audiences.
- Shows a genuine interest in people data and HR challenges.
- 2
HR Generalist / HR Operations Specialist with Data Focus
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Deep knowledge of HR processes and systems (like Workday). You'll need to beef up your analytical skills, especially SQL and advanced dashboarding.
You're ready to move on when
- Has regularly pulled and analysed HR reports for their own role.
- Understands the intricacies of HR data (e.g., how different fields in Workday relate).
- Can demonstrate basic data manipulation skills in Excel.
- Is proactive in identifying data-driven solutions to HR problems.
- 3
Recent Graduate with Relevant Internships
0-1 year (post-grad)Skills to master
- Practical application of academic knowledge in statistics, data science, and programming. You'll need to show you can handle real-world, messy data.
You're ready to move on when
- Completed internships in data analysis or business intelligence.
- Has a portfolio of projects demonstrating SQL, Python/R, and visualisation skills.
- Can articulate how their academic learning applies to business problems.
- Shows strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.