ZOD: Are skill gaps holding you back?
ZOD: Are skill gaps holding you back?
Zen of Data Science #8
The Big Idea
Weak links will kill your job potential.
It’s no secret that the current job market sucks…
If you’re looking to land your first job, land a job after a layoff, or move into a better position… it’s never been harder.
There are a ton of reasons why this is the case, but today I want to talk about one of the easiest things we can do to improve our odds.
And that’s fill in our skill gaps.
I’ve mentioned how my weak link is data visualization, (because I don’t use it in my current job).
If I needed to find a new job, that means I’d be limiting myself A LOT when it comes to potential roles.
This is why I’ve started studying Tableau on Udemy, and plan to get a Tableau certification.
I have to fill in that skill gap to stay competitive as an analyst.
Because if we get too comfortable in our current role, it can actually make us less employable, because we’re falling behind in our skills.
I’ve seen posts on Reddit from people who’ve been data analysts for years, but they only use Excel… when they try to get a new job, they’re tragically behind in skill.
So whether you’re new to data, or you’ve been in industry for awhile, make sure you’re addressing your weak links.
It used to be that Excel was enough as a Data Analyst, but times are changing.
Now SQL is the standard, but it’s becoming more and more common for companies to want Python and R experience.
Times change fast.
If you want to keep up, make sure you’re addressing your weak points, and always skilling up.
What I’m Reading
I’m reading a book from Peter Hollins called The Science of Self-Learning.
As you know, I learned to code with no formal education, but I made a lot of mistakes along the way.
Self-learning is a skill, and like any skill it can be improved.
In tech we have to always be learning, so a book like this will help you develop the skills and discipline to stay consistent, design your own study plans, and properly guide yourself through the process of learning new skills.
So far it’s a really good read.
Quote of the Week
“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive, to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love”
– Marcus Aurelius
One of my favorite quotes from Marcus Aurelius. It’s a reminder to see the beauty in the miracle that is life.
No matter what we’re going through, it’s a miracle that we’re here at all. That we’re aware enough, and alive enough, and healthy enough, to enjoy this human experience.
Something Interesting
On the topic of studying and learning, this podcast from Andrew Huberman just came out:
Definitely worth a listen. It’s a long one, but over a few sessions you’ll certainly learn a lot.
Feel-Good Finds
This one made me laugh out loud. 😆
Thanks for reading, and have a great week!
– Josh