We start this episode by looking at another 3 interpersonal qualities a Business Analyst must have:
Problem Solving
This is one of my favourite qualities of a Business Analyst. I always say the role of a Business Analyst is to solve business problems. This does not mean they literally solve the problems themselves but they must be able to find solutions or lead the team to the right solution to achieve a desired outcome for business. This is a huge responsibility that requires careful consideration and the business analyst must ensure that the problem is fully understood before attempting to fashion a solution. Often times well-meaning individuals when trying to explain or define a problem, end up prescribing the solution they want to see. The danger in this is that a half-baked solution may be crafted which would then need to be remediated in the future.
To be successful at problem solving, a business analyst should find a good balance of curiosity which will help them seek to understand the problem, imagination which will help them form innovative ideas and pragmatism which will help them remain practical about what can be realistically achieved given resources are often finite.
Relationship Building
Relationships are at the heart of how most businesses function and by extension how the Business Analyst is able to deliver their role. The business analyst will be working with a range of stakeholders and teams which will be made up of people with different personalities. To get any work done a Business Analyst will need to engage and interface with these people – seniors, juniors and peers. Some will be internal to the organisation, others external. The important thing is that the Business Analyst recognises they need to put enough effort into building relationships with people that will enable them get things done. Remember you will not always have a title or power, but you must be able to lead and influence. You will do this well when you understand the relationships you need to enable you and how to nurture those relationships successfully.
Team Work
Whether you are in charge of your own team or are working as an individual contributor within a team, collaboration is at the center of Business Analysis. The business analyst should consider how they fit in the team, what the objectives of the team are and how their role will help to achieve it. A business analyst may need to operate in cross-functional teams or project teams sometimes with external suppliers. They need to understand team dynamics and what makes great teams work well. They will also need to be aware of any tensions within the team that might inhibit their ability to succeed in delivering their role because more often than not the Business Analyst needs input from others or relies on others to provide information that will support their analysis.
Next week we will continue the series by looking at the next set of competencies:
- Political Awareness
- Influencing
- Self Belief
What do you think is the most important competency of a Business Analyst? Please share your views. I would love to hear your opinions. Thank you.
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