Do you want a career in data? Maybe you’re a recent grad, or perhaps you’ve tired of your current role and want a change. Whatever your situation, here are a selection of key tips, advice, and guidance on how to break into (and have a successful) data career – directly from those who’ve done it themselves. Each guide contains not only the advice you need, but real-world examples from the author’s own experience.

Simple Talk Editor in Career

From anthropology to analytics: how to build a data career with no prior experience (10 tips from a Microsoft MVP)

No computer science degree, no clear plan – just deliberate moves and the right communities. Here’s what Kristyna Ferris learned…

12 June 2026 10 min read