In the world of interactive marketing, web analytics jobs are in hot demand. I get at least 4 inquiries a month and I only have a LinkedIn profile active. For anyone who’s worked in the field, this comes as no surprise. Web analytics is still relatively young, there is little infrastructure in colleges and universities to train students and each tool has nuances that can throw even the most seasoned marketer.
There’s no doubt that, at the moment, the web analytics job field is a buyer’s market. Of course, just being a numbers jockey doesn’t guarantee you the position you covet. Having been both on the application and hiring side of the table, I have some insight into what makes a web analytics resume stand out. Here are some of my tips to improve yours.
- Focus On Measurable Results – The point of measurement is action. Bullet some of your major accomplishments in direct, quantifiable terms. For example, “conducted a series of multivariate tests on my clients’ website that produced a 20% lift in conversion within 4 weeks.” Essentially, you are providing mini case studies to catch the employer’s attention. Be prepared to elaborate extensively on the points you highlight.
- List Tools and Proficiency – Some employers are looking for candidates with knowledge of specific web analytics tools. Include a section in your resume where you list the tools your familiar with and your level of proficiency, e.g. Omniture – Intermediate, Google Analytics – Advanced.
- Flaunt Your Training – Any specialized education or training can distinguish you from the rest of the pack. This includes formal certification programs like the certificate at UBC, Web Analytics Association training, vendor training programs like those from Omniture or an advanced degree such as that from the Institute for Advance Analytics. Essentially, this is as much of a guarantee of experience and facility with a tool that an employer can expect.
- No Report Monkeys – Anyone can be trained to extract, massage and spit data back out in dashboards and PowerPoint decks. Your resume needs to explain how you translate data into insight and stimulate action. I want to see proof that you furthered your company or client’s business with your work.
- Web Analytics Resume 2.0 – Clickstream data is a drop in the analytics bucket. There is a wealth of other data out there: surveys, usability research, competitive intelligence, insight from a/b and multivariate tests, ppc trends and more. A great resume shows comfort with, and curiosity about, the many different sources of information about your customers and prospects.
If you liked this post, you might also like my post about deciding whether or not to require experience when hiring web analysts. For one perspective on where your web analytics career can go, check out June’s post and presentation from eMetrics. If you’re curious about my own tenure in the field, drop a comment with your question.
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Great post. I’m a Brazilian marketing student and I’m thinking to take Digital Media Analysis as career.
Your information was highly useful. Thanks, already bookmarked.
Hey Sergio,
I’m glad you found the post useful. Hopefully, you’re resume will be great and you can land the web analytics job of your dreams :-)
-Alex
Alex,
The post is really helpful.
I work as email marketing analyst I am trying to shift my career to web analytics.
I had no experiance in web analytics but have a birds eye on all web analytic concepts.
It would be g8 if you provide some more tips in writing my resume.
Thanks,
Chaitanya.
Alex this is great information. I have been doing some analytics at my current and have been constructing my resume for full time position elsewhere and came across your site. Thanks !
For Chaitanya,
I have been doing a bit of both analytics and thought maybe we can chat and be of assistance to each other through our transitions. Would you be up for email exchanges??
Thanks,
M.Patel
Hi Chaitanya,
Well, I would suggest that you look up the LinkedIn profiles of other web analysts. Though not the same as resumes, it’s a good place to get free ideas.
Hey M. Patel,
I’m glad you found it useful! If you stumble on any great tips, please do share them with the rest of us.
Cheers,
-Alex
Alex,
thanks for your post – very interesting. I was wondering, by any chance, if you would know of any personal resume coaching firms that focusing on resumes web/marketing analysts? I would love to have my resume done by professional resume writer.
thanks, A.
Hey Alex,
I don’t know of any such services. Any good recruiter will give your resume a once over for free. I’d also suggest emailing it to friends and colleagues in the industry to get their quick opinion.
If you really want a professional’s help, ask the Yahoo Web Analytics Forum for ideas. Remember to pay as much attention to your LinkedIn profile as well.
Cheers,
-Alex
1. how to mention Google analytics related topics in resume ?
2. how to seo related topics in resume ?
Your resume should focus on results. Put bullet points that highlight what you accomplished with your skills
For example
- Increased sales from SEO $XXX per month by implementing a link building campaign
- Decreased shopping cart abandonment by 10% using web analytics, resulting in an increase in sales of $5K per month