# Being and Becoming an Analyst By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2023-02-23 Historically, trades were marked by a progression from apprentice to journeyman and from journeyman to master. Each stage of the progression required an individual to perform certain tasks in certain ways to advance to the next stage. Whereas the process is less structured, organizations have a similar approach to developing analysts. One starts as an intern or trainee and advances to the stage of analyst, potentially eventually becoming a senior analyst. At each stage, one is both being and becoming. One likely had analytic inclinations before employment. One potentially had such inclinations from early childhood. What constitutes “being” and analyst? The answer to such a question is complex. In some respects, people are analysts based on internal proclivities. An analyst is simply one who approaches understanding analytically. In social spaces, there is likely some degree of proving one is an analyst. This process frequently is a mix of formal education, training, and work experience. When one’s internal inclinations align with one’s established pedigree there is harmony, confidence, and power. Those lacking both the inclination and the training avoid operating in this space entirely. When inclination, education, and experience are discordant, there is the potential for disharmony, doubt, and subjugation. Having the inclination but lacking the formal sanctioning can result in people who feel uncomfortable sharing their insights. They feel like they do not have a legitimate basis from which to assert their perspective. Having the formal sanctioning but lacking the authentic inclination could result in one feeling like a fraud or that one is simply working for money. Being and becoming an analyst, or any trade or profession, is more complex than we admit in our routine interactions. It is a lifelong process in which one continues to cultivate and refine one’s abilities. In some respects, everybody is an analyst. In other respects, not even all analysts are truly so. #### Related Items [[Analytics]] [[Education]] [[Development]] [[Beliefs]]