Data Analyst Skills Test to identify high-potential candidates with excellent data analysis skills

The demand for data analysts is at an all-time high, as stated by the World Economic Forum, highlighting that data analytics is among the top ten careers in 2020 and beyond. 

Data analytics is undergoing continuous evolution; it all began with descriptive analytics. Now, we have reached the stage where analytics can determine future outcomes through predictive analytics. In addition, the advent of technologies such as AI, ML, IoT, and cloud computing has enabled analytics to perform even more demanding operations. With the continuously evolving technology comes far more exciting forms of analytics that can make the impossible possible.

Listed below are some must-have skills for data analysts: 

• R or Python-statistical programming 
• Data visualization 
• Critical thinking 
• SQL 
• Machine learning 
• Microsoft Excel 
• Presentation skills 

There are four types of data analysis: 

• Diagnostic 
• Descriptive 
• Prescriptive 
• Predictive  

Data analytics is undergoing continuous evolution; it all began with descriptive analytics. Now, we have reached the stage where analytics can determine future outcomes through predictive analytics. In addition, the advent of technologies such as AI, ML, IoT, and cloud computing has enabled analytics to perform even more demanding operations. With the continuously evolving technology comes far more exciting forms of analytics that can make the impossible possible.

Most people often think about what separates a good data analyst from an inadequate one. Are there some specific attributes, qualities, and traits that can make someone a competent analyst? If so, is there a way to imbibe these personal skills and put these into practice? The answer to these questions is quite simple. Given below are some habits that one can master to achieve great success in their endeavor:

• Choose a storytelling approach, but keep it simple 
• Your attention to detail matters 
• Have a good understanding of the business operations 
• Utilize data creatively 
• Be a team player 
• Always show a willingness to learn new skills and tools 
• Make every mistake count

Data analysts don't need to have exceptional coding skills, but they must be well-versed in data visualization software, analytics software, and data management processes. Data analysts should also have strong communication skills because they have to work with teams with different technical knowledge levels.

The Mercer | Mettl Data Analysis Assessment is tailored for recruitment. However, we can do benchmarking for custom sample sets as well. Please write to us about your request; we will gladly assist you.

We have previously customized online Data Analyst Assessment reports based on the client’s requirements. So please write to us with your request, and we will be glad to provide you with a solution.

This exam measures the candidates’ abilities to extract information by analyzing data and suggesting possible outcomes and their proficiency in using R. The Data Analysis Online Test is essentially used for pre-employment screening. However, data analysts who use R for their daily work should know how to leverage the functionality given by R packages to unveil powerful insights from data.

You can follow these simple steps to hire data analysts:

 1) Write a well-thought-out job description

 A well-explained job description can strike a responsive chord with data analyst aspirants. A thorough data analyst JD includes a well-written summary of the role, a list of responsibilities, and the required skills. In addition, you can have keywords that job seekers use to search for these jobs, such as:

• Business analyst 
• Financial analyst
• Data analyst

 2) Pre-employment testing to assess data analysis skills and filter out ineligible candidates

 A Data Analysis Test is a form of a psychometric test prepared by subject matter experts to understand and assess a candidate's expertise in analyzing high-level quantitative data. The test outcome reveals how well the candidate will perform in the actual job.

 3) Interviewing candidates for data analyst positions 

 Potential candidates for these positions will be optimistic in answering data analyst interview questions regarding:

• Advanced SQL and Excel
• ETL processes
• Statistics
• Project management
• Interpersonal skills

The answer to this question varies based on the type of company and the level to which an enterprise has adopted data-driven decision-making practices. However, the responsibilities of an analyst usually include the following:

• Designing and maintaining databases and data systems; this includes tasks such as solving various data-related issues and coding errors. 
• Data mining from primary and secondary sources and compiling that data in a human and machine-readable format 
• Employing statistical tools to explain data sets, putting particular emphasis on trends and patterns that offer opportunities for implementing diagnostic and predictive analytics 
• Exhibiting the relevance of their responsibilities concerning global, national, and local trends that influence both their company and industry 
• Creating reports for senior leaders to communicate trends, predictions, and patterns effectively based on relevant data. 
• Teaming up with engineers, programmers, and executive leaders to find and discuss avenues for process modifications, system improvements, and data governance policies 
• Providing adequate documentation that enables stakeholders to comprehend the steps of the analysis process 

After passing a Data Analyst Test, candidates often grapple with the issue of what questions to look forward to in the interview and how to answer them. Even though interviews are a bit unnerving, you must be well-prepared to keep nervousness at bay. Given below are some common interview questions:

• Why did you choose this career? 
• Which area of expertise would you prefer? 
• What kind of analytics tool experience do you possess? 
• What has been your most challenging analysis assignment to date? 
• What are your strengths? 
• Can you work under pressure? 
• Why should we hire you? 
• How would you estimate the number of tourists visiting Paris every June?