She Trained 20,000 Data Analysts: Here's What They Got Wrong

“One of the main problems we see is that – [data teams] are asking the wrong questions to the users, which then leads to the wrong answers, which then leads to KPI metric overload, which then leads to producing stuff – that no one uses.” — Mico Yuk [0:03:40]

Ever wondered why so many data analysts struggle to make an impact despite their technical skills? If you’ve ever felt like your dashboards are more noise than insight or questioned how to elevate your career in data, this episode is for you. 

In this episode of More than Numbers Live, we dive into the answer to this very question with Mico Yuk—Host of the Analytics on Fire podcast and Co-Founder of Data Storytelling Academy.

Mico is a seasoned data expert and through her programs and mentorship has trained over 20,000 analysts! During this conversation with Ollie, she draws on this vast experience to discuss:

1. The three biggest mistakes data analysts make
2. Why data storytelling and empathy are the real superpowers of modern analysts (especially in the age of AI)
3. How applying “TLC - tenderness, listening, and clarity” is the key to success

Mico shares hard-won insights on how data analysts can shift from chart monkeys to strategic thinkers. Tune in to learn how to break the cycle of ad-hoc analytics and truly drive value in your organization!‍

Brilliant data bits

“The real value of a [data] analyst is going to start becoming more about how they wrestle with the business, actually understand the problems, and form rational arguments. The technical skills are going to go away.” — Ollie Hughes [0:08:04]

“When it comes to data, TLC is tenderness, listening, and clarity.” — Mico Yuk [0:19:39]

What You’ll Learn

• [00:53] Mico’s first BI tool and the most common data tools analysts use today.
• [02:53] The "epidemic" of bad analytics: asking the wrong questions, getting lost in the tools, and failing to think critically.
• [06:27] Top 3 Reasons that data storytelling and mindset matter more than visualization.
• [07:55] How critical thinking, not dashboards, sets top data analysts apart in the AI era.
• [11:04] Why modern data analytics should focus on workflow, not just data presentation.
• [12:46] How to fix broken analytics: when to iterate versus when to start from scratch.
• [14:54] The importance of enhancing human-to-human interaction to generate value.
• [18:06] Why accepting that hospitality, sales skills, and other keys to a successful data career.
• [19:39] What TLC means in data analytics - tenderness, listening, and clarity and why it’s important.
• [19:55] Career advice for data analysts moving on how to move forward in their careers.

“It's important to recognize that AI isn't going to solve [bad analytics]. It will make them worse.” — Ollie Hughes [0:15:34]

Downloads & Links

👋 Connect with Mico on LinkedIn 

🔗 Check out Mico’s Data Storytelling Academy on Facebook

🎙️ Listen to the Analytics on Fire Podcast or watch it on YouTube | Instagram

🔗 Grab your copy of Mico’s book Data Visualization for Dummies

🚀 Connect with Ollie Hughes

🚀 Learn more about the Count Canvas

🎙️ Subscribe to More than Numbers Live:

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