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Business Analyst Mock Interview

Question 28 of 30 for our Business Analyst Mock Interview

Business Analyst was updated by on October 25th, 2021. Learn more here.

Question 28 of 30

What does the acronym PEST stand for, and have you ever used it?

"I have used PEST multiple times as it pertains to seeking out the major external factors that all businesses face which include Political, Economic, Social, and Technological. A business analyst must single out these factors and study them before making recommendations to a client on specific areas for change and improvement."

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How to Answer: What does the acronym PEST stand for, and have you ever used it?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Business Analyst job interview.

  • 28. What does the acronym PEST stand for, and have you ever used it?

      How to Answer

      PEST is a form of analysis used to pick apart a business environment, allowing a business analyst to understand all of the external factors a company may be facing. PEST is for; Political, Economic, Social, and Technological. As a seasoned business analyst, you should know what PEST is and how to tackle this type of analysis. Show the interviewer that you have the knowledge they are seeking.

      If you have never used PEST analysis before, that is okay too, merely show the hiring authority that you understand the concept and are eager to work with this form of analysis in the future.

      Written by Rachelle Enns

      1st Answer Example

      "I have used PEST multiple times as it pertains to seeking out the major external factors that all businesses face which include Political, Economic, Social, and Technological. A business analyst must single out these factors and study them before making recommendations to a client on specific areas for change and improvement."

      Written by Rachelle Enns

      2nd Answer Example

      "As I am newer to my career, I have not implemented PEST analysis with a real client; however, I did use PEST in a case study while in University. I was to take a struggling e-commerce operation and discover the political, economic, social, and technological factors which were potentially affecting the business. It was an effective method of analysis which I look forward to mastering as I further my career."

      Written by Rachelle Enns

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "I had not used PEST yet, but I had used it in college when I was working on sustainability and compared it with PEST and its impact on all. As a business analyst, it should be considered as we solve problems and mitigate risk. The understanding of this term is very responsible."

      Rachelle's Feedback

      I can see where you are going with this answer; however, I encourage you to extend and better complete your thoughts. Ideally, your answers will tie in with the job in question. I have provided an example below.
      "I learned about PEST in college and understand that it is an acronym for the political, economic, social, and technological factors which impact a business. In college, I worked on a sustainability project and (discuss the project and how PEST was used). As a Business Analyst, I will continue to use PEST as I solve problems and mitigate risk."

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