30 Business Analyst Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. Have you ever broken a confidentiality agreement?
How to Answer
Companies will have confidentiality agreements for a variety of reasons. These could protect their trade secrets or ensure that you do not bring their trade secrets to another company or client. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on confidentiality agreements.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"Confidentiality agreements are necessary and important to protect an organization. I understand the need for confidentiality and take those factors very seriously. I have never broken the trust of my employer or client."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"I have signed NDA's in all of my previous projects, with no issues. As a business analyst, I understand the importance of confidentiality. I hold myself and my team accountable to confidentiality agreements."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Behavioral
2. What was the last presentation you gave? How do you feel it went?
How to Answer
Giving a presentation to clients or your team will likely be a significant part of your role as a business analyst. You may need to gather data, write the presentation, create the visuals, and then deliver it - all on your own. If you have experience designing and giving presentations, discuss with the hiring authority what those topics were on and how well the presentation was received. If you are newer to your career as a business analyst, perhaps you had to create and give a presentation while earning your bachelor's degree. In the best case scenario, you have a sample of a presentation that you are proud of, ready on your tablet or phone to show the interviewer.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"The last presentation that I gave was to a team of administrators after our client incorporated a new software system. We had performed the initial user testing, and we wanted to share the results. I created a highly visual presentation, showing the areas of strength the administration team already displayed. I also touched on areas of improvement and gave a quick training. I believe visuals and interesting content is key to a successful presentation. The feedback was positive, and if you'd like, I can email you a copy of the presentation for review."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"Part of my university training included building presentations in PowerPoint. We learned a bit about creating an effective presentation. I also have some creative abilities, so I like to make sure the visuals are great. In my final project, I received full marks on the design aspect of the presentation. I have it saved on my phone if you are interested in reviewing."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Behavioral
3. How would you deal with conflict on your team?
How to Answer
The hiring authority is looking to hear about your ability to communicate with your team or even external stakeholders and professionally handle issues when they arise. Think of an example where you worked closely with others to resolve a conflict. You could also offer a scenario where you mediated an issue between two coworkers. Show that you can keep your head on your shoulders when dealing with conflict.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I have strong conflict management skills and as a business analyst with many high-stakes projects, have had to exercise those skills from time to time. We are in a high-stress work environment, which can cause unnecessary conflict among the team. When a conflict arises, I like to deal with it swiftly, openly, and with poise. Transparency and openness are how I lead my team, so I will call a group meeting where we express concerns and get it all out on the table."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"When there is conflict, I will address the issue head-on, with expediency and open communication. Hearing the problem before deciding on a solution, and perhaps most importantly, hearing the parties out, is most important. I believe in allowing the stakeholders to have a say in what they think will work best for them, and then work together to create a solution that will work best for everyone."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Behavioral
4. How do you react when you are dissatisfied with the quality of your work, or the outcome of a project?
How to Answer
As a business analyst, you want everything to be perfect, and you want every project to be pristine for your valued client and employer. Failure happens to all of us from time to time. The interviewer would like to know how you respond to let-downs in the workplace. There will always be a time when you are not happy with your work environment, but your reaction will determine whether or not you recover from the disappointment. Show that you have the maturity to be able to respond to dissatisfaction productively.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"In business analysis, there is little room to play around with our work and bounce back from mistakes. I allow myself to make mistakes, tweak my work, and play around with different models; however, an analytical mind is always seeking improvements and will not rest until it's right."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"When I am dissatisfied with my work, I will not submit it. There is no room in my line of work to hand in work that is not up to standard. I would not say that I am a perfectionist; however, I know what I am capable of achieving, and as a business analyst, I have to set a great example at all times."
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Education
5. Have you considered advancing your education to include an MBA?
How to Answer
Many successful business analysts have a bachelor's degree, while others possess an MBA. The interviewer would like to know if you have the interest and drive to build on your education, resulting in further career growth opportunities. With a Master of Business Administration, you can learn a lot about enterprise business, the economy, and how big business best functions in a variety of economic and social environments. Although an MBA is not often a requirement to become a business analyst, you will stand out above the others if you are interested.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I have considered achieving an Executive MBA, in tandem with my career. I believe that having an MBA looks great to any employer and client and could certainly elevate my knowledge when it comes to business economics."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not taken a serious look at going for an MBA, I would certainly not turn down the opportunity either. Being a recent BA graduate and just jumping into my career, I would like to earn some years' experience before returning to school. If I could take my MBA and work at the same time, even better."
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General
6. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you are satisfied with your interview performance. If your interview were a flop, you would know, and it's much better to address outright your performance than try to sweep it under the rug.
Written by William Swansen on October 25th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"If you feel that your performance in the interview is going well: 'I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?'
If you feel that your performance in the interview is not going well: 'I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."
Written by William Swansen on October 25th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I would rate my performance to 90% of my ability. When you asked about my exposure to Agile methodology, I felt that I missed expressing my breadth of experience. If you have time, I would like to cover that question further."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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General
7. Is compensation the most critical factor for you when taking a new job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how much emphasis you put on pay when considering a new position. In addition to compensation, there are many other factors to a fulfilling career. These other factors may include:
- work/life balance
- amount of travel involved in the role
- overall medical and health benefits
- additional perks such as a cell, car allowance, spending account
- the industry you will be working in
- amount of vacation time
- the type of clients you would be working with
- the location of the company
- career growth opportunity
- the size of your new team
- the company's reputation
- overall workplace culture
Talk to the interviewer about other factors that are important to you when considering a new job. If you are not sure about the details for this role, you can ask!
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"Salary is important to me because I know that I am skilled and well educated. With that said, I do look at the full picture, which includes factors such as benefits, travel time, and the amount of paid vacation time."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"For me, as a business analyst, the most important factor in accepting a new role is the health of the company and the clients they onboard. I am looking to take on a positive team. I like to work with enthusiastic people that I can motivate. With that said, I am also looking for a competitive financial offer."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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General
8. Tell me more about your degree, and the business analysis field in which you are most interested.
How to Answer
A business analyst can specialize in various industries, including finance, economics, statistics, computer or information science, manufacturing, and more. Discuss where you focused while obtaining your university degree with the interviewer, and then draw a picture of where your career path has taken you. Be sure to express interest in the hiring company's particular industry or area of focus.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I have a Bachelor's Degree in Finance with a focus on Business Administration. My education has been a significant factor in my success as a business analyst as my interest and knowledge grew in areas such as financial accounting, business law, microeconomics, and even marketing."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"When I initially started university, I enrolled in a BA in Finance degree. I quickly switched to a BA in Accounting degree, as I wanted to be much more focused on the financial analysis aspect. Today, my areas of strength remain in tax and cost accounting analysis, as well as accounting information systems."
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General
9. How would you ultimately describe your work style?
How to Answer
This question does not refer to your personality or character but more towards your methodology when getting your work done. Talk to the interviewer about your day-to-day approach to projects, communicating with coworkers, or collaborating with clients.
Your work style might be:
- Collaborative
- Well-Planned
- Speedy
- Flexible or Adaptive
- Independent
- Company-focused
- Team-based
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my work style as highly team-based. I keep in mind that my pace, quality of work, and outcome will always affect multiple people on my team. If I am unsure of the path to take on a project, I will consult with my team to ensure that my ideas align well with theirs."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"My work style is best described as independent. Once I understand my clients' goals, I am ready to take on all aspects of the project on my own. I take feedback well, of course."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Anonymous Answer
I would also describe my working style as highly team-based. I always remember that my pace, quality of work, and outcome will always affect multiple people on my team. If I am unsure of the path to take on a project, I will consult with my team to ensure that my ideas align well with theirs."
Kristine's Feedback
General
10. Are you currently interviewing with any of our competitors?
How to Answer
The interviewer is curious and would like to know if you visit any of their close competitors to discuss similar business analyst roles. You are never obligated to disclose who you are interviewing with, and you are usually best not to name any names in such a tight-knit industry.
Let the interviewer know that you are active in your search but very discerning regarding your applications and final decision. You also do not want it to appear that you are putting all of your eggs into this one basket. Think of this as a first date question - you want to show your interest and keep some mystery! Be direct without giving away too much.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I am interviewing with two other organizations for similar business analyst roles. I am in the third interview stage in one position, and the other was a pre-screen call with an in-person interview tomorrow. It is important that I find work soon; however, I will hold out for the right opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"I am not in a position to disclose which of your competitors are engaging me at the moment, but I can tell you that I am in early to mid-interview stages with two others. Your company is my first choice, and luckily we are furthest along in the interview process."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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General
11. Which career development goals have you set for yourself this year?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are motivated to better yourself personally and professionally. Career development can come in many forms:
- Conferences
- Trade shows
- Seminars & workshops
- Reading
- Podcasts
- Online coursework
- Finding a mentor
Discuss with the interviewer how you plan to develop yourself professionally this year, and be sure to tie it into how this goal will benefit their company, should they choose to hire you.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"This year, I have put requests to attend a few seminars and workshops on effective leadership and one on macroeconomics. I want to help my team and clients reach their goals while also feeling fulfilled and happy. I look forward to taking what I have learned so far and applying the concepts to this BA lead role with your company."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"The professional goal that I set for myself recently was to find a mentor to assist me in my career. Being newer to my profession as a business analyst, I felt it was important to consult and meet with someone more seasoned than I. This move to have a mentor can only benefit me, and, down the road, I hope to return the favor to someone else who needs a mentor."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Ultimately, I'd like to move into management with a focus on strategy and development and work my way into a long-term position where I can build a stable career. Right now, I'm focusing on improving my communication skills through continuing education programs outside of work. I'm very interested in leadership positions and know effective communication is critical.
While I'm happy as a member of any team I'm on, I'm looking forward to taking on leadership roles, eventually working my way into a manager or team leader position. I have been so lucky to have been surrounded by managers and team leaders who have been generous with their knowledge. I look forward to an opportunity to become a mentor for others like me within this field."
Kristine's Feedback
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Amanda's Feedback
General
12. Are you Six Sigma certified? Why is Six Sigma important to you, as a business analyst?
How to Answer
Being Six Sigma certified is not always a requirement for a business analyst; however, this type of training never hurts! Six Sigma certification comes in various levels, including white belt, yellow belt, green belt, and MBB, which is short for Master Black Belt. Discuss with the interviewer if you have this type of training and how it helps you do your job as a business analyst.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I am currently taking my Six Sigma green belt, having already earned my white and yellow belts. This education has helped me learn about lean management and the analysis and control that comes with it. The more knowledge I have on helping a business run lean, the more profitable I can make the clients I work with."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"I have not begun any Six Sigma training as of yet; however, I can see how further training in lean management would be a beneficial tool for my clients as I grow my business analyst portfolio. If this opportunity for further training comes up in the future, I would eagerly join."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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General
13. What key strengths should a business analyst possess?
How to Answer
An excellent business analyst will be analytical, a great critical thinker, and a fantastic problem solver. There are many essential strengths that a business analyst should have, and it may be hard to choose. Start by reviewing the job description or job posting, and pick out a few key strengths that the potential employer seeks. Then, form your response based on those keywords which you possess.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"Looking at my key strengths, and the strengths of other business analysts that I admire, I would say that an elevated sense of business operations through a variety of industries is fundamental. Also, to be a skilled listener who can read between the lines of what is said and what is truly happening is very helpful. Excellent data analysis is also an area where every business analyst should be highly skilled. "
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"A business analyst should be a creative thinker, an excellent problem solver, and someone resistant to stress. Clients can be demanding and require a great amount of attention to detail. These are all skills that I possess, and I look forward to bringing them to work for your organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
14. Which decision-making technique do you deploy most often?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to understand the techniques and thought processes you use, to come to conclusions when working on projects. Pareto Analysis or the 80/20 rule is a commonly used decision-making technique, as is T-Chart Analysis, and more. Discuss with the interviewer what you know about decision-making and the importance of coming to accurate conclusions.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"Most often, I find myself utilizing Pareto Analysis. I agree that about 20% of causes are responsible for 80% of outcomes or results. With this style of analysis, I can more easily break down which part of the workflow is causing most of the issues. Once we identify that 20%, it's much easier to problem solve and make decisions."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"When decision making, I use a variety of techniques, without falling victim to the well-known 'analysis-paralysis.' I tend to go to decision trees, t-chart analysis, or SWOT analysis. The methods that I lean on will depend on the stage I am in with the client, so often, many of these techniques come into play in one project."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
15. How often do you discuss work with your colleagues to think up new systems and styles of working?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you discuss creative ideas with your coworkers. They are interested in determining if you use your creative mind with your colleagues to discuss plans and systems in the workplace. Talk to the interviewer about how you have used creative thinking in the workplace.
Written by William Swansen on October 25th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I think it is important to discuss work with colleagues in a collaborative nature to encourage all types of ideas to come forth. Often, when people put their heads together, they will create something better than something one individual could have done alone."
Written by William Swansen on October 25th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"My team collaborates all the time! When one of us closes a successful project, we email the entire team to let them know how we do it. We can all learn from each other's work methods which are encouraging and helpful."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
16. What are your thoughts on Agile software development? Do you encourage Agile methodologies with your clients?
How to Answer
Agile software development and its overall principles have been openly embraced by organizations worldwide since its inception. Agile encourages collaboration with teams, customers, and the end-user, allowing for more cross-functional projects to happen with fewer hiccups.
However, there are still some people who strongly argue against Agile. Those people tend to prefer Waterfall, for instance. Discuss your thoughts on Agile with the interviewer, keeping in mind that it's best to research where the hiring company stands on Agile before your interview.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I saw in your job posting that you are seeking a business analyst who embraces Agile methodology. I have worked in, and fully support, an Agile environment. I enjoy the team-based approach Agile brings to software development."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"From what I understand, Agile software development is highly collaborative and team-based compared to other software development models. I can see how Agile would be excellent for many projects, but perhaps not all. I look forward to learning more about the methodologies used here. What is most important to me is that projects be tackled and completed professionally."
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Operational
17. As a business analyst, when do you consider a project successful and complete?
How to Answer
Just because a client has signed off on a project, that does not mean your job as a business analyst is done. The interviewer would like to understand when you consider a project to be successful and complete. Share that you are available to your clients when they need you and that you do not abandon them the moment they sign off on a project.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"When I start a project, I am sure to set evident expectations with my clients on what a completed project may look like. I do not consider a project complete until we have delivered what we have promised, and the client can pick up where we sign off."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that different clients will have varying expectations when it comes to the completion of a project. I am not interested in having a client sign off on a project when there are still loose ends. I will always be available to my client; however, I do consider a project being at a close when documentation is archived, and invoices are paid."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
18. How do you show your clients the importance of communication during a project?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you lead by example in communication in the workplace. Breakdown of communication in a business setting can have dire effects on the profitability of an organization. This effect is why it is essential, as a business analyst, to understand that 'telling' and 'showing' are two very different things when it comes to proper communication with your clients and their teams. Give examples of how you put dialogue into action throughout your projects.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I show my clients the importance of clear communication through every step of a project, simply from leading by example. I set the tone and expectations for how we should communicate by utilizing all forms of written, verbal and interpersonal communications to a tee."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"As a business analyst, we have to communicate every small detail of our projects. I encourage this by asking everyone on our project to use Trello, a project management app that tracks our progress and needs every step of the way. It's like web-based sticky notes!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
19. How do you determine the difference between a risk and an issue?
How to Answer
If you have experience as a business analyst or a project manager, you know full well that there is a world of difference between a genuine risk and an issue. The interviewer wants to see that you are not going to overlook probability but that you can also focus your attention on current problems.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I treat risk as something that could occur in the future, and an issue is a risk that is currently happening. It's imperative to pay attention to both a risk and an issue; however, issues are usually more pressing, from my experience."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"As a business analyst, I focus more on risk than issues. A risk is a predicted problem or something that could happen in the future, so it's up to my team and me to predict risk and help our clients overcome that risk. An issue is a risk that has already happened. I can certainly recommend to my clients how to recover from an issue; however, I would much rather help them with precautionary measures before my work becomes damage control."
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Operational
20. Tell me about your experience working with teams from various departments of the organization.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like more information on your exposure to working in a cross-functional environment. If you work for a larger company, you may have been asked to work on a project with teams from another department. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a significant asset to your potential employer, especially if they are a larger organization.
Maybe you headed a project that required you to collaborate with the human resources, IT, and sales teams. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"Exposure to cross-functional teamwork in my current position is common. When expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful. I go into these types of projects to understand that everyone has their strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function. In my current business analyst role, I collaborate primarily with our IT department, as well as the HR partners."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"When I worked for a larger BA agency, we collaborated across departments all the time. We had the C-suite of Marketing and Operations, then the Content and Communications department, Creative Services, and Customer Insights. We would meet weekly to discuss larger client projects and then collaborate through the week as needed. It was a great set-up and ensured smooth progress at all project stages."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
21. Talk to me about your specific technical skills as a business analyst.
How to Answer
Whether your career focus is on being a data business analyst, an IT business analyst, or a strategic business analyst, your response to this question may be entirely different.
If you are interviewing for a data-focused role, your technical skills may include data analysis software and visual presentation programs such as PowerPoint. As an IT business analyst, you likely have exposure to software development tools and templates. Then, as a strategic business analyst, your technical skills may be better suited for professional industries and include strategic and business case analysis software and applications. Discuss with the interviewer which technical skills you will bring to their organization.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"As a data business analyst, my strongest technical skills include data mining and big data programs such as Oracle and LIONsolver. I am also active in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, as I create data models in Excel and robust client presentations and visuals in PowerPoint."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"My technical areas of strength are in IT architecture programs such as IBM System Architect and Iteraplan. With ten years of experience between these two programs, I can easily train my clients and even junior business analysts on the use of these systems, helping them to make better sense of the data they receive and organize that data as it pertains to their business or enterprise."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
22. Tell me about your involvement in systems development life cycle and user acceptance testing.
How to Answer
An experienced business analyst will have exposure to SDLC, which is systems development life cycle or application development lifecycle. When a business introduces new software or applications to their organization, they need to ensure the change is well planned, adequately tested, and then properly deployed company-wide. A seasoned business analyst can make this process run smoothly, saving valuable organization time, resources, and funds. Describe your experience with SDLC and user application testing. If you do not have exposure to these activities, be sure to express your interest in becoming involved and learning.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with dozens of clients on developing a life cycle for new software or applications. As far as user acceptance testing, I have tested on groups as large as 1,000 people. I enjoy analyzing the data that comes from beta and even final-phase software testing."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"Although my exposure to SDLC is limited, I have jumped in on projects in the user acceptance testing phase. I find it fascinating to analyze which aspects of a new software program or application are the stickiest, which are most easily adapted, and how to move forward from there."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
23. When planning, how often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to changing situations?
How to Answer
A talented business analyst will have the ability to pivot, adapt, and change at a moments' notice. As a business analyst, you know that problem-solving and thinking outside the box when it comes to changing situations is a valuable skill set. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios for your clients and accounts. You may never need to take on these scenarios; however, it's excellent for the interviewer to know that you can adapt your plan on the fly.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I love having contingency plans. A business analyst needs to understand that ideally, we will do 'X,' but if that fails, we need to be ready to pivot and make sure that 'Y' happens. Having alternate scenarios mapped out takes out the uncertainty and is sure to prepare everyone to adapt if a problem should arise."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"Nothing in business is guaranteed; that is one thing I know for sure. I always create 'what-ifs' because I know that plans change quickly, especially where multiple decision-makers are involved in getting to the finish line. Plan B is always ready to go."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Operational
24. Which data modeling software do you prefer to use?
How to Answer
Most commonly, business analysts will use Microsoft Excel or Visio for their data modeling needs. Likely, the preferred software or program will be mentioned in the hiring company's job posting, so be sure to refer to that. If you have experience in the software or applications they use, be sure to mention your level of exposure and expertise. If you do not have experience in their preferred programs or software, discuss how you can apply your current knowledge to their systems.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I have the most experience with Visio for data modeling, and I see in your job posting that you are seeking at least three years' exposure to that particular program. I have used Visio for five years now and consider myself an expert user. I have created hundreds of entity-relationship diagrams and other flowcharts within Visio."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"Microsoft Excel is my go-to program for most data modeling needs. I find Excel the simplest for data mapping and would say that I am an intermediate-level user. I have minimal exposure to Visio, although I have begun to take an online training course to strengthen my skills in that particular program."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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Technical
25. Describe Kano Analysis and why it is important.
How to Answer
Kano Analysis was created to meet the ever-changing needs of customers and clients. When analyzing a product, it's vital that a company fully understands how to determine customer happiness. There are three points to Kano Analysis:
- Unexpected Delighters
- Performance Attributes
- Must-Have Attributes
Show the interviewer that you understand these three points work together to help you analyze customer satisfaction.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"Kano Analysis is a group of qualifiers that a company needs to meet before putting a product to market. Unexpected delighters are seen as the things a company or product delivers that are 'extra.' Must-have attributes are what a customer expects. Then, Performance attributes come from the 'more is better' customer mentality."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"Kano Analysis is important because it helps a company to understand their customers' satisfaction threshold better. Kano is used to understand customer needs, determine their requirements, develop new concepts, and analyze competitive products."
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26. What are the various SDLC models?
How to Answer
SDLC stands for Software Development Life Cycle, a concept that IT Business Analysts often use. There are various SDLC models, including Agile, Waterfall, Spiral, Iterative, and V-Shaped. Display to the interviewer that you understand the variances between these models by briefly discussing their differences.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"The SDLC models which I am most familiar with include Agile and Spiral. I like agile because it encourages adaptation, continuous improvements and offers flexible responses to change. With Spiral, it's more risk-driven, which is also a fascinating method in which to work. The others include Waterfall, Iterative, and V-shaped, which I am less familiar with but keen on learning."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"From what I learned in university, there are five primary SDLC models which include Agile, Spiral, Waterfall, Iterative and V-shaped. Since my focus is not on IT business analysis, I did not perform a deep dive into these; however, I do understand V-shaped analysis and the fact that it is an extension of the waterfall method."
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Technical
27. What does the acronym INVEST mean, to technical teams and project managers?
How to Answer
A good business analyst should understand that the acronym INVEST is for:
- Independent
- Negotiable
- Valuable
- Estimable
- Sized appropriately
- Testable
Show the interviewer that you are familiar with industry terms by explaining what INVEST means, breaking down each word. If you are not familiar with INVEST, that is okay. Likely, this means that you do not often work in the IT space.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I understand INVEST best for creating user stories with product managers, developers, and IT teams. The acronym is for Independent; the story should be self-contained. Negotiable; user stories can always be altered. Valuable, meaning there should be a goal or a value attached to the user story. Estimable, the size of a user story should always be easily estimated. Sized appropriately, meaning the user story should not be too small or too large. Finally, Testable; when user stories are testable, it's easy to see when the project is correct and complete."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"The bulk of my business analysis is done on the strategic side, for banking and telecommunications. My exposure to INVEST is limited, since it is utilized primarily by business analysts working with developers and IT teams. I do know; however, that it stands for Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Sized appropriately, and Testable. I am happy to learn more about INVEST and how it will help your clients, technical teams, and project managers."
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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."
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Technical
29. What is benchmarking, and why is it important?
How to Answer
By definition, to benchmark is to evaluate or compare with a pre-set standard. When a business analyst is benchmarking, they take a deep dive into a competing organization and then use those marks to set a standard for the company they are working with.
This deep dive could include hiring practices, return policies, product development, manufacturing procedures, and more. Explain to the interviewer how you, as a successful business analyst, use benchmarking to help your clients achieve their goals.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"In a nutshell, benchmarking is the practice of setting your business standards against your competitors. When properly utilized, benchmarking can help an organization take a critical look at their competitors' performance and learn from past mistakes while benefiting from best practices that may already exist. This dive could include dissecting existing processes, the analysis of different sets of data, and developing an action plan around what your competitors may or may not be doing."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"Benchmarking is the important practice of comparing your business against other businesses that are already very successful. It's like a smart, analytical comparison. I believe it's essential to benchmark when a company is looking at making a significant change, seeing a loss of revenue, anticipating the launch of a new product, or need to recalibrate their business operations in one way or another."
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Technical
30. Name two important types of charts or diagrams a business analyst would use. Why are these important?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants to see that you have basic knowledge of the diagrams and charts that you will be using during your business analyst career. Some examples include:
- Data Flow Diagrams
- Activity Diagrams
- Use Case Diagrams
- Brainstorm Mind Map
- Feature Roadmap
- Organizational Chart
You are likely familiar with a few of these charts and diagrams, so be sure to choose a couple of options that you know well and can easily discuss.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"The two types of charts and diagrams that I use most frequently include organizational charts and use case diagrams. When it comes to an organizational chart, I can map out a business' hierarchy, helping me analyze the stakeholder structure further. Once I have a solid understanding of the organizational makeup, I can plan what models will work for organizational change. Then, a use case diagram can be created to show the relationships between everyone and the activities within the organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Answer Example
"The charts and diagrams which I am most versed in include SWOT diagrams and reports, as well as brainstorm mind maps. I am highly visual, which is one reason why I am drawn to charts and graphs, every step of the way, in each project I take on. By starting with SWOT, we can uncover the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats a business faces. This report helps the business stakeholders figure out where their biggest roadblocks are. From there, I can more easily create a path towards improvement. Brainstorming mind maps are another visual model which allows me to capture ideas without commitment. This map allows me to take ideas from the teams and stakeholders and explore them without commitment. In my opinion, a key component to a successful project start."
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