Hi All, 

I am a new BA with only 18 months of BA experience with a Bank in the Bay area, CA. Fortunately, I will be joining them again in March, 2013. But during my job hunt I saw requirements that are more about having experience with data analysis, forecasting, budgeting, or with SAP, CRM, ERP etc. I have a very functional BA experience. I do not have an educational qualification in MBA, Computer Sceince or any quantitative discipline.

How can I prepare my self better when my next contract ends? Is there any certification or coursework that I can do that will prepare me better since I would not have real job experience that I mentioned above? I did go through some material provided in various posts. But again, since I do not have any real experience, I am not sure if that wll help in getting a job.

Job hunting was very frustrating. Please advise.

As you saw from your job hunt, experience is what employers look for first.  So courses are always great for building your skills, but unfortunately don't necessarily make you more employable.  And BA certifications like CCBA need experience as much as coursework, too.

Don't be discouraged though - there are still other things you can do.  It's important to use every possible avenue in your job search.  Don't limit yourself just to advertised jobs and job websites like Monster (although these are still good things to do - just not the only things).  Companies find employees in a variety of ways - not always by posting job ads.

Networking is important - your local bay-area IIBA chapter is a great place to start.  Chapter meetings and events are often a great way to hear about companies who are looking for BAs - and to get tips on what their employers are looking for in resumes and interviews as well.

Many companies also post jobs on their websites, that they don't advertise.  So make sure you regularly check websites of companies that you'd like to work for in the Bay area for job postings as well.

Best of luck!

Sandy