The goal of this podcast is to highlight unique data jobs and help people learn about the skills required for data professionals.
Connor Ferguson's role as an analytics engineer exemplifies a unique and unconventional data-related career. His journey showcases the value of leveraging data to solve problems by prioritizing incremental progress, effective communication, continuous learning, and staying adaptable.
In this episode, Connor shares his journey in analytics, the importance of messy analytics, and the impact of cultural experiences on his analytical approach. The conversation also touches on the value of incremental progress, effective communication, and the thrill of continuous learning. Check out these nourished nuggets! 🍗🍗
Embracing Messy Analytics
Connor highlights the significance of adopting a "crawl, walk, run" approach in analytics. Instead of striving for perfection and fully polished deliverables, he suggests focusing on delivering value early and incrementally. This mindset allows for faster responses to stakeholders' questions, promotes trust-building, and enables adjustments based on evolving needs.
The Power of Cultural Experiences
Connor's exposure to different cultures through his international experiences has shaped his analytical perspective. He emphasizes the importance of learning from diverse backgrounds and challenging assumptions. Understanding cultural nuances enhances empathy, facilitates effective communication, and broadens problem-solving approaches.
Continuous Learning and Information Gathering
Connor's approach to learning involves collecting and bookmarking diverse resources, such as YouTube videos, articles, and analytics content on platforms like LinkedIn. He believes in information dumping, followed by practical application and hands-on experience to solidify knowledge. Connor's advice aligns with the idea that continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry developments are essential for data professionals.
Communication and Checking In
Regular communication with stakeholders is crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring alignment. Connor emphasizes the importance of providing updates, even if there is no significant progress to report. Consistent check-ins allow for feedback, reassurance, and the identification of potential issues before they become problematic.
Letting Go of Unused Dashboards and Reports
To prevent clutter and optimize resources, Connor suggests periodically evaluating the usage and value of dashboards and reports. If there is no demonstrable need or audience for a particular deliverable, it may be best to discontinue it. Deleting unused items encourages stakeholders to reflect on their requirements and eliminates unnecessary dependencies.
To connect with Conner, you can find him on LinkedIn.
How often do you check in with your stakeholders?
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