If I apply in a company for the post of Business analyst or Data analyst, will I be asked for any SQL or VBA certification?

When applying for the roles of Business Analyst or Data Analyst, the requirements for certifications or proficiency in specific tools like SQL or VBA can vary depending on the job specifications and the company's needs.

Data Analyst

For a Data Analyst position, proficiency in SQL is almost always a requirement. Data analysts need to gather, analyze, and present data, and SQL is a crucial skill for managing and analyzing large datasets135.

• Additionally, skills in statistical programming languages like R or Python, as well as data visualization and Microsoft Excel (including VBA for advanced analytics), are often highly valued135.

Business Analyst

For a Business Analyst position, while SQL skills can be beneficial, they are not always a strict requirement. Business analysts focus more on addressing business needs, process optimization, and recommending solutions. However, having some data analysis skills, including basic SQL, can be advantageous134.

• Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Visio and other software design tools is more commonly emphasized for business analysts13.

Certifications

While certifications are not always mandatory, having them can be highly beneficial. For example, certifications in SQL, data analytics, or business intelligence can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. Programs like Meta's Data Analyst Professional Certificate, Tableau's Business Intelligence Analyst Professional Certificate, or Google's Data Analytics Professional Certificate can be advantageous for both roles3.

In summary, for a Data Analyst role, SQL and possibly VBA skills are likely to be required or highly preferred. For a Business Analyst role, while SQL skills are useful, they may not be as critical, but having some proficiency in data analysis tools can still be beneficial.