Prepping for a Business Analyst Interview

Over the past couple of weeks, we have posted guides on how to secure the perfect reference and when it is time to change your job in the IT sector. However, once you’ve secured yourself an interview, ensuring you’re prepared is the next vital step in landing the role as a Business Analyst.

Research

One of the first steps to consider is researching the company that you are interviewing for. Before applying for any job, it is essential that you take a look at the organisation and do some background research. Not only does this ensure that you are applying for a role that you would genuinely be interested in, but it also saves your potential employer time if you reject your interview offer.

Researching the business will also allow you to form a better opinion as to whether or not you would be a good fit within the company, and by looking at the job description in detail, you can begin to form answers based on what the organisation is after.

Gaining an understanding of how the business works will help you to feel prepared, so assess any issues or trends that are affecting the industry in case they arise in the interview. Potential employers will be looking for a Business Analyst with critical thinking skills, so look at the news, as well as the company’s website and media releases, to prepare for any relevant questions where you can demonstrate your knowledge of the company. During this stage, it is also important to note down anything about the business that you would like to question your interviewer about.

Potential questions

In preparation for your interview, something that you should begin to think about is any possible questions that you may be asked and how to respond to them. The interview may follow the traditional format of questions that allow your interviewer to get to know you better, before looking at behavioural interview questions that demonstrate your previous experience. It is also likely for Business Analyst roles that the interviewer will test your problem-solving capabilities by presenting you with a series of riddles and brainteasers that challenge your way of thinking.

The role of the Business Analyst is a challenging and complex one, with your analytical expertise being regularly tested to solve operational problems that may arise. Employers will, therefore, be looking for skills that are transferable to the workplace and that will benefit the organisation, so it is helpful that you use this opportunity to present your ability to help the business identify risks and work more efficiently.

Other types of questions that you may be asked will include how you would deal with a problematic stakeholder and what strengths that you have that you feel apply to the role of a Business Analyst. Preparing concise answers to any of these questions will leave you feeling more confident if asked.

In addition to testing your thinking skills, employers will be looking for good interpersonal skills. Soft skills, such as how you communicate with others and how well you work in a team are vital when applying for Business Analyst roles. Prepare a few examples of when you have used these skills effectively in case you encounter questions about your character, but also reflect your interpersonal skills by being open and friendly during the interview.

Interview technique

One of the most important areas for you to brush up on is your interview technique. Without being prepared on how to conduct yourself in an interview environment, it is unlikely that you will be comfortable enough to perform to the best of your ability.

Body language is one of the most significant indicators as to how you are feeling throughout the interview, whether you are aware of it or not. Changing your sitting position regularly while being interviewed is one of the best ways to calm your nerves. This movement should be smooth, and fidgeting should be avoided if you are aiming to give the impression of being composed.

Making sure your body language is open is another signal as to how you are feeling. Having your arms folded makes you seem defensive and closed off, so one of the best ways to make sure that you look more open is by placing one hand on top of another in your lap.

Just like your interviewer is likely watching your body language, you can do the same. Observe how they are moving or sitting, and look for clues as to how they are feeling from their body language. Actions such as leaning forward and nodding are positive signs that they are focused on what you are saying; however, any signs of fidgeting could mean that they lack in interest.

Here at Eolas Recruitment, our team of expert consultants will strive to help you land your dream Business Analyst job in Ireland. If you’re wondering whether a role as a Business Analyst is right for you, check out our blog post here or contact us for more information.