Why the data analyst of tomorrow needs to be more of a psychologist than a technician

In a working world where artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are increasingly determining the way we work, IT professionals are experiencing an unprecedented transformation. Lukas Weber, a data analyst, experiences this change first-hand when he suddenly realizes that AI is not only taking over routine tasks, but also fundamentally changing his position in the job interview. What used to be clear and structured - working with numbers and algorithms - faded into the background. The new focus was suddenly on soft skills: on the people behind the data.

Technology alone is no longer enough - soft skills are crucial

According to a forecast by the World Economic Forum, around a third of jobs will be replaced by automation and AI by 2027 - and the IT sector will also be affected. As a result of automation, many repetitive tasks in IT have lost their importance, which is changing the requirements for IT experts. While technical knowledge used to be the main focus, specialists now also have to act as communicators of complex information and present their results in such a way that they are understandable for different departments, regardless of their technical knowledge.

However, this change also offers opportunities: in addition to technical know-how, new positions increasingly require soft skills such as empathy, communication skills and teamwork. If you want to be successful as an IT expert today, you not only have to be able to deal with numbers, but also understand how to communicate them in a sensitive and targeted manner in a conversation.

A recent study by McKinsey & Company (2024) shows that 88% of HR managers in a global survey confirm that soft skills such as communication, problem solving and critical thinking are increasingly crucial for employee performance in an automated world. Particularly in demand are the ability to collaborate, leadership skills and the ability to adapt quickly to change. These skills are increasingly seen as more important than purely technical knowledge in order to be successful in the future.

From code to communication: the new challenge for data analysts

"Data analysts used to be considered technicians, but today they are also communicators," explains career coach Jessica Wahl. "They not only need to understand data, but also understand the psychological impact of their findings on others in order to communicate their analysis clearly and effectively." HR decision-makers are also noticing this change. Michael Schr?der, Head of HR at a large tech company, emphasizes: "The ability to explain complex relationships simply and to communicate with non-technical colleagues is becoming increasingly important. Soft skills are just as important today as technical expertise."

In practice, this is particularly evident in the communication of data: A data analyst today must not only be able to deal with numbers, but also explain complex results in a language that marketing experts, product managers or managing directors understand. For example, when presenting market analyses for a new product, the way in which the analyst structures and presents their findings can determine the success of the project.

Important recommendations for the interview:

Communicate clearly and empathetically: instead of focusing only on technical details, you should also give examples in the interview where your ability to communicate and empathize made the difference. Show that you are able to explain complex issues in an understandable way and respond to the other person's needs. Active listening is crucial to understanding the other person's concerns and responding to them in a targeted manner. If you are explaining a technical concept during an interview, try to understand the interviewer's perspective and adapt your answer accordingly.

Teamwork and conflict resolution: In many projects, you will be confronted with different opinions and perspectives. Show how you used good communication to resolve conflicts and lead the team to success. This not only underlines your ability to work in a team, but also your leadership skills without being in a formal management position.

Flexibility and adaptability: The IT sector is constantly changing, as are the requirements for specialists. Show in the interview that you can adapt to new situations and apply your skills in different contexts. Flexibility is a key skill that is increasingly in demand.

Conclusion: Ready for the new world of work

The digital transformation is changing the world of work and presenting specialists with new challenges. The IT professions of the future require not only technical expertise, but also the ability to communicate effectively, work in a team and integrate different perspectives. Professionals who master this balance of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills are perceived as indispensable members of successful teams and can actively shape the future of work.

WAHLUNIVERSUM (R)
Info@WAHLUNIVERSUMl.de

The Institute for Personal Performance Coaching has been supporting specialists, managers and personalities in challenging professional contexts for 20 years.

Jessica Wahl, Senior Performance Coach, breathing, voice and speech therapist, and J?rg Tewes, qualified actor and Senior Performance Coach, are internationally recognized as leading experts in performance and career coaching.

The coaching takes place in a unique setting in the heart of Berlin-Kreuzberg: The institute is located in a beautiful church that offers an atmosphere of calm, concentration and clarity - a deliberate counterpoint to the pulsating dynamics of the big city.

The focus of the coaching approach is on attitude, presence and sustainable performance - all under real conditions and with a clear goal: to strengthen people not only professionally but also personally. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of soft skills, emotional intelligence and the ability to present oneself authentically. In this way, clients are optimally prepared for the complex demands of the modern working world, which require both technical knowledge and strong interpersonal skills. https://www.jessicawahl.de

This release was published on openPR.