Securing a BA role can be time-consuming, but using all the available channels can increase your chances of success. Here are our recommendations for finding a BA role:
Job sites: They are the go-to place for applying for BA roles. Most organisations use them to target a wider pool of applicants, so they can find the best candidates for the role. Popular job sites used by most BAs include Total Jobs and Reed Jobs.
Referrals: Being able to use your network to find a role is useful, as they could put in a good word for you to increase your chances of securing a role. Build and maintain your network and touch base with key contacts to increase your chances of engagement when needed.
Recruiters: They are a solid way to find a role as they are gatekeepers to some organisations. Managing the relationships with recruiters is essential, as some use rough tactics in finding roles from you and sending other candidates to the same role. Be prepared and communicate your needs to the recruiters. Sharing relevant and necessary information with a recruiter is needed to ensure you are helping each other. Check out the guidelines for managing recruiters.
Company sites: They are a great place to find direct roles. If you have a list of companies you are interested in working for, have a look on their site, as they often display the roles they are looking for on the site to reduce the cost of using job sites. As a new BA, select four sectors you want to work in, find a list of companies in the sector and check on their website directly for BA roles.
BA communities: They are a great place to find roles. You will find most BAs join this platform to learn and support each other on the journey. Asking questions and contributing is a key enabler to your success in the communities. Don’t be afraid to ask and request help in the BA communities.
Social media sites: LinkedIn is a good place to find BA roles. It is the go-to place to find roles and potentially find some of the team members you'll be working with. Spend time creating a solid profile of yourself as employees use it to check on job applicants.
Events: They can help you in securing a role. Finding the right events and networking with attendees can help you in finding the next role or opportunity.
Applying for a new job takes time, and we suggest you keep a log when applying for the roles. The Log will help you to engage effectively with the company when you are called for an interview. It helps you log key information about the role as you may sometimes not find a link to a role you applied for. An Excel log with the following columns should help you when applying for the role:
Date of application
Name of role - Companies use specific details for some of the roles.
Source - site or channel used to find the role.
Company
Job reference - Multiple roles in different departments
Job details
Responsibilities
Job contact
Any other key information
Deadline date
Keeping a log is tedious, but it has several benefits, including engaging the recruiter in a specific role, showing you are organised and attentive to detail, closing out the roles that have not contacted you after the deadline date, sending a follow-up email if you don’t get contacted by the company, and helping you prepare for the interview.
Having an appreciation for the process will enable you to apply for the right roles and manage the process effectively. Check out our article on managing relationships with recruiters.
