A combination of personal characteristics, such as being goal-oriented and organized, plus a bachelor's degree are needed to become a strategy analyst. Experience in business is often required for this position within an organization, which can be found through internships and entry-level jobs. A strategy analyst can work in-house or as an independent consultant, so it is important to decide which type of career path you would like to take. Once you have considered your goals, you can apply for jobs to be a strategy analyst. Positions are available in many technological and business industries.
Strategy analysts have the task of defining an organization's objectives and helping it reach its goals, both in the short- and long-term. This task requires exceptional communication skills in order to develop objectives and rapport with the upper-level management of an organization. The ability to see the larger picture of an organization through critical thinking allows a strategy analyst to make decisions that will create a positive difference, either in efficiency or profit, in the organization he or she is working for.
You need to complete a bachelor's degree in order to be hired as a strategy analyst at the majority of organizations. Degrees in business administration, computer science, information technology, and computer engineering are good choices to become a strategy analyst. If you decide to go further with your degree, you should consider a master's of business administration (MBA) along with classes in technology. Obtaining a higher level degree will help you advance more quickly to a management role within an organization, which is often the step needed right before you become a strategy analyst.
It is usually necessary to work your way up within an organization, as many employers will not hire individuals to be strategy analysts without having experience in the field of business. While you are in school, or directly after graduation, you can look for internship positions within companies that interest you. This will provide you with experience as well as the opportunity to meet individuals working in the field. Another option is to begin at an entry-level job in an information technology or administration department of an organization. Once you have an education and a few years of experience, you can begin to apply for jobs to become a strategy analyst, which requires an updated resume, cover letter, and list of references from previous employers or professors.