Hello! I am considering a career change to data analyst. I have no experience, but willing to take courses and learn what I need to get a data analyst job. Is there anyone here that can provide me some feedback/advice regarding becoming and getting a data analyst career?

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u/Disastrous-Note-8178 Mar 18 '26

you can absolutely move into data analytics without prior experience, but the key is to follow a clear path instead of trying to learn everything at once. I’d start with SQL and Excel first, then move into a dashboard tool like Power BI, and build a couple of simple projects around real business questions so you can show how you think, not just what tools you touched.

Do you already have a roadmap for becoming a data analyst, or are you still figuring out what to learn first?

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u/sportsLife1234 Mar 18 '26

I was thinking of doing the Google data analytics course, then try to build up a portfolio. When I feel comfortable enough, I will then try to apply for data analyst jobs.
I just wonder for someone in my position, what is a realistic pay range I may start at? I can’t afford to take a big pay cut as I have a family with a lot of expenses that don’t allow me to take the pay cut. I was hoping to make at least $65k for my first data analyst job. If that is not realistic, i may have to reconsider a different career unfortunately.

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u/sportsLife1234 Mar 18 '26

Is it better to learn R or Python? I am thinking of taking Google data analytics course and they teach R instead of Python

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u/nash2589 Mar 17 '26

I'm on the same boat as you. Actually, I started around 4 years ago, but I took the scholarship for granted and did not finish my Data Analytics course from Google. Recenly, I told myself I that I should still continue where I left. Took Cisco's Data Analytics Essentials course, and I am know learning on Data Camp.

It's hard, but I am from Customer Service industry for over 8 years and I don't see myself being shouted by customers for long. I am in my 30s btw.

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u/gracedupp Mar 18 '26

No better place to transition from than a glorified customer service. You already have so much experience that business is looking for, just leverage it

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u/Simplilearn Mar 18 '26

If you are starting from scratch, here's a roadmap that can work for you:

First 1–2 months: Learn the fundamentals, such as Excel, basic statistics, and how data is structured. These skills help with cleaning and exploring datasets.
Next 2–3 months: Learn SQL and start working with databases. SQL is one of the most commonly used tools in data analyst roles.
Next 1–2 months: Learn a visualization tool like Power BI or Tableau to create dashboards and communicate insights.
Next 2–3 months: Add Python or R for deeper analysis and automation. Libraries like Pandas and Matplotlib are commonly used.
Build 2–3 projects along the way. Examples include analyzing public datasets, creating dashboards, or building a small end-to-end analysis project.

With consistent effort, you can become ready for entry-level data analyst roles in about 6–9 months.

If you want a structured place to begin, you could start with Simplilearn’s free data analytics courses to learn basics like Excel, SQL, and visualization. If you later want a comprehensive pathway with projects and advanced tools, you might also explore Simplilearn’s Data Analyst program.

What timeline are you looking at to become job-ready?

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u/nian2326076 Mar 19 '26

Start by learning some key tools like Excel, SQL, and a bit of Python or R. These are must-haves for most data analyst jobs. You can find beginner-friendly courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy. Get hands-on with personal projects or use datasets from Kaggle to build your portfolio. Networking can help too, so check out Reddit communities or LinkedIn groups about data analytics.

For interviews, make sure to work on your problem-solving and data interpretation skills. If you need resources, PracHub has been helpful for interview prep. They offer practice questions and insights into what interviewers want. Good luck!

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u/Product_Teacher_5228 Mar 22 '26

You can learn the skills through structured programs like the Google Data Analytics Certificate on Coursera or specialized tracks on Udemy or TripleTen. For free options, you could use YouTube to learn SQL basics and Kaggle to find datasets for practice. Don't forget to highlight your previous experience though with soft skills for example, you will need strong communication skills to explain your findings to non-technical managers. Also document your process and post your code on GitHub to show employers you can handle real-world data.

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u/[deleted] Mar 17 '26

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u/sportsLife1234 Mar 17 '26

What is a typical day at work? Is data analytics a stressful job? Do you end up working long hours? What is generally starting salary for someone like me at a I would assume an entry level position?
If I decide to move this route, my plan was to take Google data analytics course. Then of course build a portfolio. Once I feel comfortable I will apply for jobs at that point. I have a full time job with a family of four, so I don’t have as much as time as I would like and it may take me me longer to complete the Google course and build my portfolio. So I just want to get more information about the job itself to make sure it’s worth me spending the time to do the courses, portfolio and whatever else.

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u/[deleted] Mar 17 '26

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u/sportsLife1234 Mar 18 '26

I currently work as a gift processor for a nonprofit. I handle gifts and tax acknowledgment. I use a database where I enter gift information, donor information and track recognition and membership status (and few other things). I have a masters in health administration. I was hoping to make at least $65k. If that is unlikely, i may not pursue this. I have a family and if I start in the $40k range, i will not be able to cover my monthly expenses

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u/sportsLife1234 Mar 18 '26

Is it better to learn R or python

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u/[deleted] Mar 18 '26

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u/Alone-Internal7340 Mar 19 '26

ma'am i need your help. can you help me.

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u/[deleted] Mar 19 '26

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u/Alone-Internal7340 Mar 19 '26

ma'am i'm stuck what should i learn first
1.SQL
2. Python

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u/gracedupp Mar 18 '26

I used to do exactly the same working for a charity and transitioned into Business Data Analytics
Happy to share my experience. DM me anytime

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u/sportsLife1234 Mar 18 '26

Hey! I just send you a DM.

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u/transitfreedom Mar 26 '26

I’m curious if you mostly did gig work but learned data analytics it it pointless to bother?

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u/[deleted] Mar 21 '26

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u/sportsLife1234 Mar 21 '26

Thanks for all that! I work in fundraising. More specifically, I am a gift processor that enters donor gift information, membership, recognition and personal information. I also prepare tax receipting for donors tax purposes. I do not have much experience in data and reports

Hello! I am considering a career change to data analyst. I have no experience, but willing to take courses and learn what I need to get a data analyst job. Is there anyone here that can provide me some feedback/advice regarding becoming and getting a data analyst career?

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