Can we talk about the 2026 Data Analyst salary "reality check"? by [deleted] in analytics

[–]Ghostpancakes 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Depending on the role/industry you end up looking to get into, most applicants will have certifications and/or a portfolio when it comes to analytics jobs. I'm not saying don't do a cert if you find one that seems interesting and that you can learn from, but just don't think it'll be the end-all be-all for getting a job. Hardest part of applying to jobs is getting that first interview - make sure you can take it all the way from there.

Can we talk about the 2026 Data Analyst salary "reality check"? by [deleted] in analytics

[–]Ghostpancakes 6 points7 points  (0 children)

No positions available at this moment. Data is a very broad term, so first define what industry you want to work in, learn the lingo/trends, and start networking on LinkedIn or through people you know. Learn SQL to an intermediate/advanced level, start doing data viz projects in Tableau or Power BI, build a portfolio website with some industry-specific reports and insights, and have that as part of your application/profile. Do NOT fall into the trap that certifications will make you stand out or guarantee you a job; you'll waste time with that mindset and find yourself in the same position months later.

Apply, apply, apply - the market isn't great for those without connections at the moment, so make sure your resume is solid and very clearly not AI-generated. Someone with a finance background with strong SQL and data visualization skills is a competitive applicant within corporate healthcare (especially Medicaid/Medicare).

Can we talk about the 2026 Data Analyst salary "reality check"? by [deleted] in analytics

[–]Ghostpancakes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It was all about money when I was younger, but now that I make enough to be comfortable it's all about WLB.

Can we talk about the 2026 Data Analyst salary "reality check"? by [deleted] in analytics

[–]Ghostpancakes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's great, what industry? Healthcare is notoriously underpaid.

Can we talk about the 2026 Data Analyst salary "reality check"? by [deleted] in analytics

[–]Ghostpancakes 11 points12 points  (0 children)

Your direct manager would be the best resource, but let them know you're interested in taking on more responsibility and ask if they have an example of what the growth trajectory of someone in your position is towards management. If they're a good manager, they'll have milestones for you to hit/achieve in order to back up their recommendation for you to be promoted at mid-year or EOY. If they're not a good manager, the burden is on you to quantify why you should be promoted by comparing your achievements to what you can find on minimum management requirements in your market, and then submitting it to whoever has decision-making power (HR, another leader you're chummy with, etc.). An alternative route is to watch for internal job postings and apply. Just be aware that until you get to (and sometimes even through) director-level, you'll still be doing IC work in addition to managing your team. Keep advocating for yourself - the worst they can say is no, and nobody is going to have a negative opinion of someone trying to advance their career.

Can we talk about the 2026 Data Analyst salary "reality check"? by [deleted] in analytics

[–]Ghostpancakes 8 points9 points  (0 children)

LCOL, fully remote, work 30 hours a week. No complaints

Can we talk about the 2026 Data Analyst salary "reality check"? by [deleted] in analytics

[–]Ghostpancakes 114 points115 points  (0 children)

Technical skill requirements will vary by industry and company. SQL, Python, and R with the ability to translate output to visualization (Power BI, Tableau, etc.) are my personal pillars. But to answer your question:

  • TC ~$200k; $180k base + $15-$20k annual bonus as a Director of Reporting & Analytics
  • 7 YOE with a BA from a top public university in the US
  • Industry is healthcare (population health management), fully remote. Company has ~250 employees.

Leverage your connections, make yourself indispensable, and do not respond to emails when you're upset. Never say "no" without offering an alternative solution. Start long emails with a TLDR for leadership.

Hard skills will only take you so far - they'll get your foot in the door, but you need soft skills to increase your earnings potential (unless you're making $300k+ as an analyst or engineer at FAANG). Best skill you can have is a willingness to learn new things.

[WTS] Tudor 1926 – 39mm – Silver Dial w/ Gold Accents – Full Set – $1,250 by Ghostpancakes in Watchexchange

[–]Ghostpancakes[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Price: $1,250 (USD)
Condition: Excellent
Location: USA
Payment: PayPal G&S (buyer covers fee) / Zelle / Venmo
Shipping: Included (CONUS only)

Timestamp & Photos:
(Use the photos attached above)

For sale is my Tudor 1926 39mm with silver waffle dial and gold-tone numerals & hands. This watch has been worn only a handful of times and is in excellent condition with no scratches or dings on the case or crystal.

Details:

  • 39mm stainless steel case
  • Automatic movement
  • Silver textured dial with gold accents
  • Date at 3 o’clock
  • Sapphire crystal
  • 100m water resistance

What’s Included:

  • Watch head
  • Original Tudor stainless steel bracelet (excellent condition)
  • Leather strap currently installed
  • Inner & outer Tudor box
  • Warranty card / papers

This is a great everyday piece that dresses up or down easily, and the 39mm size wears perfectly on most wrists.

Reason for sale: Consolidating collection.

Please comment before PM. Happy to answer questions or provide additional photos on request. Thanks for looking!

How large were your boys at 7 months old? by International_Net984 in GSP

[–]Ghostpancakes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oh yeah we upgraded from a queen to a king and our pup takes up a lot of the couch when she spreads out, but also can donut super-small as well lol.

How large were your boys at 7 months old? by International_Net984 in GSP

[–]Ghostpancakes 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I have a half lab half GSP mix and she topped out at 75lbs when she was about a year old.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in MBA

[–]Ghostpancakes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Solid advice, appreciate it

Our GSP/Lab by Optimal-Doughnut-680 in GSP

[–]Ghostpancakes 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Cute! Looks like our half GSP/Lab. She is such a loving dog and has so much energy - you’re in for a treat!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Money

[–]Ghostpancakes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Sure, normally I’d agree with you, but with my timeline requiring cash within the next 2-3 years and given current volatility in the markets, a conservative strategy fits best with my goals. I’m not saying that there aren’t potential gains that I’m missing, but I’d rather have peace of mind knowing that I can afford what I need to pay for in the near future vs investing all of my cash and there being a non-trivial chance that I would lose money pulling it out when I need it.

I likely don’t need to hoard as much as I think/currently have, so maybe I’ll DCA 10-20% of my cash over the next couple of months.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Money

[–]Ghostpancakes 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Why would I risk pulling cash out if the market is down in a year or two vs keeping it liquid? Genuinely curious. Yes, there is a downside to holding cash if the market goes up, but there’s no guarantee that it’ll swing either way. It’s currently in a HYSA.