Nailing a BA Interview

Interviewing for A Business Analyst role

The Business Analyst role is such a complex role to define, as it can take so many different forms. It’s not wholly scientific, and its not quite an Art. It lives somewhere in the middle, in the grey, which is ironic as this kind of ambiguity is like Kryptonite to a good BA!

Because the role of a BA is so based on people and communications, you can’t get a true complete picture of someone fit for the role at the interview stage. Not even after multiple rounds, and testing. That might sound crazy, but it’s true. You don’t really know if someone is going to be a success until you put them in front of a group of stakeholders, and a business problem. So much of the role is based on being able to do two things.

1.      Drive value, by solving problems.

2.      Navigating people dynamics so that they work for you, and not against you. 

This is very difficult to ascertain at interview stage, for any hiring team. So, all the hiring team can do at the most basic level is mitigate the risk as much as possible, by trying to answer these two questions, above. Can the candidate drive value, and can they adapt their approach to each person and problem that is presented to them.

The types of BA roles

When you talk about Business Analysis, because it is still a growing profession it has more and more variants develop each and every year. Are you looking for a traditional IT Business Analysis role, where you are the one stop shop for your project teams with regard to all things ‘requirement’? Are you more of a process nerd (Guilty) and you want to flex that lean Six Sigma Black belt? Maybe you are a looking for more of a systems analyst role and you want or get your hands dirty with integration mapping, entity definition or workflows! Perhaps you want to be the BRD guy.. 

Whatever flavour of BA is your thing, I am pretty confident it is out there. Even If it isn’t - do what great BA’s do and show your organisation why it’s a gap and pave the way yourself.

The types of Organisations where the role might be advertised

More and the BA profession is being recognised as a key component in both identifying and sustaining positive change. This means there are more opportunities today than at any other time since the BA role was first brough to prominence over 40 years ago. From government organisations, where BA’s work to make our public services better to Banks and financial institutions as well as Pharma, Healthcare and Consultancy. If there is an organisation where there is a business problem (find me one where there isn’t?), they will need a BA.

Phases of interview

Application

Be sure to register with all the popular recruitment sites and spend time on your CV. Please please please write it yourself. This sounds ridiculous, but seriously. We absolutely know when Chat GPT has written your CV. Make sure to research and contact specialised recruitment agencies, register with them and have them search on your behalf. Use your network, investment in your LinkedIn profile is an investment in you, its the first thing I check.

Screening

All going well and you would have received a call from the Talent or HR team, and on this call, as friendly and chatty as it may seem, it its for sure the first opportunity you have to impress. Take the time to sell yourself, and let your personality shine through, be authentic and engaged.

First Round: Setting the Stage

In the initial round of interviews for a business analysis position, candidates often encounter preliminary assessments to gauge their suitability for the role. This phase typically involves screening for basic qualifications, communication skills, and a fundamental understanding of business analysis concepts, its also a great opportunity to learn if this person has prepped sufficiently, giving great insight in to their approach to project prep!

Second Round: Delving Deeper

Advancing to the second round indicates that you are a good fit. Here, candidates delve deeper into their expertise, showcasing their ability to analyse complex business problems, communicate insights effectively, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. Expect scenario-based questions and perhaps even a case study to assess practical application skills. Often, the second round is used as a means to assess ‘cultural fit’.

Follow-Up & Feedback: The Closing Act

After the interviews conclude, candidates anticipate feedback. Employers might provide insights into strengths and areas for improvement. Regardless of the outcome, seeking feedback is good practice is should be documented (and received) with professionalism and a commitment to growth.

Non-Negotiables: Essential Skills and Attributes

Certain qualities are non-negotiable in a business analysis role. These may include proficiency in requirements management, strong communication skills, adaptability to change, and a solid understanding of business process analysis. Employers prioritise candidates who possess these foundational attributes. But ultimately, you need to be a people person, someone that can win the business over, and do it fast. The BA is the first boots on the ground with a software project, and they need to be able to get the SME group on side.

Nice to Haves: Differentiators that Impress

While non-negotiables are crucial, possessing additional skills and qualities can set candidates apart. These might include industry-specific knowledge, certifications like CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional), proficiency in project management tools. Design and collaboration tools like MIRO and Figma, or experience with specialised software like customer engagement platforms or ERP solutions.

The Most Important Advice I Could Give: Preparation and Confidence

Above all, thorough preparation and confidence are the big winners for me. Research the company and industry, practice answering common interview questions for a BA, and be ready to articulate your experiences and accomplishments succinctly (Very important). Confidence in your abilities and a genuine passion for the field can leave a lasting impression on interviewers. Don’t be afraid to bring evidence of your work, bring a portfolio, send a PPT in advance, bring some mock ups, talk through a use case. All of these will help you stand out from the crowd.

In navigating business analysis job interviews, remember that each round presents an opportunity to showcase your skills and suitability for the role. By understanding what employers seek, emphasising your strengths, and demonstrating your value, you can position yourself as a standout candidate in what has become an increasingly competitive field.