How To Become a CRM Business Analyst: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a CRM business analyst, including education, skills, salary and more.
CRM business analysts are responsible for analyzing customer data and developing strategies to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. They work with businesses to understand customer needs and develop CRM systems that meet those needs. If you are interested in a career as a CRM business analyst, it is helpful to know what they do and what steps you need to take to become one. In this article, we explain the responsibilities of a CRM business analyst and outline the steps to becoming one.
What Does a CRM Business Analyst Do?
CRM business analysts work with an organization’s customer relationship management (CRM) system to ensure it meets the specific needs of the business. CRM systems are used to track and manage customer interactions, sales data, marketing campaigns and other customer-related information. The CRM business analyst is responsible for analyzing the data within the CRM system to help improve customer relations and increase sales.
The duties of a CRM business analyst include:
- Identifying the specific needs of the business with regards to customer relations and sales
- Analyzing the data within the CRM system to identify trends and patterns
- Generating reports on the findings of the data analysis
- Recommending changes or improvements to the CRM system based on the findings of the data analysis
- Implementing changes or improvements to the CRM system
- Training employees on how to use the CRM system
- Monitoring the performance of the CRM system after changes or improvements have been made
- Troubleshooting any issues that arise with the CRM system
CRM Business Analyst Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a CRM business analyst is $97,850. This figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the analyst.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for CRM business analysts to increase at a much faster than average rate over the next decade. This is due in part to the growing popularity and use of customer relationship management (CRM) software among businesses. As more companies adopt CRM systems, they will need the expertise of analysts to help them choose the right software, implement it effectively and get the most out of it.
How to Become a CRM Business Analyst
Here are several steps you should take to become a CRM business analyst.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration, computer science or a related field
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for CRM business analyst positions. Common degrees held by professionals in this field include business administration, computer science and information systems.
Business administration programs teach students how to manage a company’s finances, marketing and other aspects of running a business. Courses may cover topics such as accounting, economics, management and organizational behavior. Computer science programs focus on programming, data structures and algorithms. Information systems programs combine business and technology courses with an emphasis on developing solutions for companies.
2. Gain experience with customer relationship management (CRM) software
CRM software is used by companies to manage their interactions with customers. Candidates for CRM business analyst positions should have experience using this type of software, either in an internship or part-time job. Internships are a great way to learn about the field and build connections that can help you find a job after graduation.
You may also gain experience with CRM software through your college’s computer science program. Many colleges offer elective courses on topics such as database management and web development.
3. Understand data analysis and reporting
CRM business analysts must be able to analyze data and report on it in a way that is easy for others to understand. They should have experience with using spreadsheets, databases and other software programs to collect and organize information.
Business analysts often use graphs and charts to present their findings. It’s important to keep up-to-date on the latest trends in data analysis so you can provide your clients with the most useful reports possible.
4. Develop strong communication skills
CRM business analysts work with a variety of people in different departments, so it’s important for you to be able to communicate clearly and effectively. You may need to present your findings to executives or other members of the company who have limited technical knowledge.
You should also be able to explain complex concepts in an easy-to-understand way that will help others make informed decisions. Additionally, you’ll likely interact with clients and customers on a regular basis, so good communication skills are essential.
5. Be able to work independently and as part of a team
CRM business analysts often work independently, but they also collaborate with other employees and departments within a company. They may need to meet regularly with managers or executives to review data and provide recommendations based on that information.
Business analysts must be able to communicate effectively with all levels of an organization. They should be able to explain complex processes in ways that are easy for others to understand.
6. Stay up to date on changes in technology
Technology is constantly changing, so it’s important for CRM business analysts to stay up to date on the latest developments. For example, new features may be added to software that you use or a company you work with might switch platforms. Keeping informed about these changes can help you do your job more effectively and provide valuable insights to your clients.
You should also keep an eye out for trends in customer behavior. This information could impact how companies interact with their customers and what kind of data they collect.
7. Join professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is a professional organization that provides opportunities for people in computing and information technology to learn, be inspired and connect with others. The ACM offers many benefits to its members, including career development resources, networking opportunities and access to journals and magazines. Joining the ACM can help you stay up to date on trends in the industry and find new job opportunities.
