Following a busy day of introductions and setting up on our first day, it was time to start our first day of training.
Carl covered Data Structure & Terminology, Data Sources & Architecture and Answering Questions with Data. It was a lot to cover, but we had plenty of time to discuss and work together which I found worked really well.
Prior to starting yesterday, I had 2 months off after working in the NHS for many years, the last 4 working with data. However, I've always had a slight aspect of imposter syndrome as most people (I think) would relate! Throughout today the thing that has resounded with me the most is that as much as the technical skills are important (and we will have all the support with them), our role as Consultants will be based hugely on communication and how we work personably with our Clients and stakeholders.
That really helped allay any anxieties that may have been trying to get into my brain; as well as the huge amount of support that is provided by everyone here at The Information Lab. That support has been so clear to see from everyone we have interacted with and met so far!
So, the Answering Questions with Data section will stick with me and be a go to slide pack throughout my journey. I love understanding how we behave why we do, and workplaces in particular can be fascinating, both in good and bad ways. But we covered researching the company you are going into, spoke about our role and how we will be prepared for this (especially around requirements conversations) and I loved touching on the 'five whys' which I have come across before, but was reminded how useful such a simple premise can be.
Tomorrow we start on data prep!