20 Data Analyst Interview Questions to Ace Your Next Interview

Data has become a critical aspect in today’s digital world, and data analysts are indispensable for enabling organizations to make informed business decisions. If you are getting ready for a data analyst interview, a good understanding of common data analyst interview questions can go a long way in enhancing your chances at success. To help you prepare for your next interview as a data analyst, here’s a complete list of 20 data analyst interview questions and expert answers.

Business people shaking hands in a meeting room

Basic Data Analyst Interview Questions

1. What is the role of a Data Analyst?

A data analyst collects, processes, and analyzes data to extract valuable insights that assist businesses in making informed, data-driven decisions.

2. What are the key skills required for a data analyst?

  • Skill in SQL, Python, and R
  • Strong Excel skills
  • Familiarity with data visualization tools (i.e., Tableau or Power BI)
  • Ability to perform statistical analysis
  • Ability to critically analyze and solve a problem

3. What is data cleaning, and why is it important?

Data cleaning means fitting the dataset for accuracy so that we can remove errors as well as other inconsistencies.

SQL Interview Questions for Data Analysts

4. What is SQL, and why is it important for data analysis?

Structured Query Language (SQL) is used for interacting with databases, manipulating the data, and finding meaningful insights by performing complex queries.

5. Write an SQL query to find duplicate records in a table.

SELECT column_name, COUNT(*)
FROM table_name
GROUP BY column_name
HAVING COUNT(*) > 1;

6. How do you join tables in SQL?

The most common types of SQL joins are:

  • INNER JOIN: Gives only matching rows on both the tables.
  • LEFT JOIN: Retrieves all rows from the left table and the matched rows in the right table.
  • RIGHT JOIN: Returns all records from the right table, and the matched records from the left side.
  • FULL JOIN: Returns all the rows when there is a match in either left or right table records.

Statistics and Probability Questions

7. What is the difference between descriptive and inferential statistics?

  • Descriptive statistics describe data (mean, median, mode, standard deviation).
  • Inferential statistics are used to make predictions based on sample data.

8. What is the Central Limit Theorem (CLT)?

The Central Limit Theorem (CLT) states that the sampling distribution of the sample mean becomes approximately normally distributed as the sample size increases no matter the underlying distribution of the original data.

Python and R Interview Questions

9. How is Python used in data analysis?

Python is widely used for:

  • Data manipulation with pandas
  • Statistical analysis using NumPy and SciPy
  • Matplotlib and Seaborn for data visualization
  • Training models with scikit-learn

10. Write a Python script to remove missing values from a dataset.

import pandas as pd
df = pd.read_csv("data.csv")
df_cleaned = df.dropna()
print(df_cleaned.head())

Excel Interview Questions for Data Analysts

11. What are pivot tables, and how are they useful?

Excel pivot tables help group and distill vast amounts of data into concise insights.

12. What is VLOOKUP, and how does it work?

The VLOOKUP function is used to lookup a value in the first column of a range and return a corresponding value from another column.

Data Visualization Interview Questions

13. What are some popular data visualization tools?

  • Tableau
  • Power BI
  • Google Data Studio
  • Matplotlib and Seaborn (for Python)

14. What makes a good data visualization?

An effective data visualization captures the key insights in a clear, concise manner that is easy for the audience to understand.

Case Study and Scenario-Based Questions

15. How would you handle missing or inconsistent data?

  • If there are not too many missing values, you can drop them.
  • Fill in your missing values with mean mean median mode.
  • Predictive modelling to impute missing values.

16. How would you present your analysis to a non-technical audience?

To ensure stakeholders understand the key takeaways, you can use clear data visualizations, employ storytelling techniques, and avoid using technical jargon.

Advanced Data Analyst Interview Questions

17. What is the difference between structured and unstructured data?

  • Structured data refers to the data that is well organized and stored in SQL databases (Relational Databases).
  • Images, videos, and information that do not follow a specific format are included in unstructured data.

18. What is A/B testing, and why is it important?

When you want to apply statistical significance to the results, A/B testing is commonly used to show the effectiveness of changes to a webpage, product or marketing campaign.

19. What is the difference between supervised and unsupervised learning?

  • In supervised learning, it trains on labeled data (e.g., approaching regression, classification).
  • Unsupervised Learning — It looks for patterns in data with no labels (clustering, PCA, etc.)

20. Explain the importance of online certifications for data analysts.

The Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate, IBM Data Science Professional Certificate and Simplilearn’s Data Analyst Certification among many others are all online certifications that provide you with real-world datasets so that you can gain experience that will make you look more attractive to employers, whether you are looking for a job as a data analyst or looking to advance within your current company.

Conclusion

In order to prepare for a data analyst interview, it is important to focus on SQL definitions, statistics, Python, Excel, and data visualization. Mastering these top 20 data analyst interview questions can surely help you nail your next interview and land the job of your dreams.

How to Explore Career Options in Commerce After School

If you have chosen commerce for your higher studies, you have already taken a step in the right direction. The best part about the commerce stream is that it brings a lot of career options into the fray. However, at this point, a very common question pops up. These career options we talk about – whether it is the role of a research analyst or a business development manager – require technical training. It is not a secret that any technical academic course is not exactly budget-friendly. Thus, it is mandatory to make financial planning alongside focusing on academics, and in this regard, the non-banking sector has emerged as a key player in recent times. In this article, let us take a look at how to select the perfect course, finance your education, and choose the best career path.

How to select the right course

First and foremost, it is important to select the right career path, and there is a structured way to do so:

  • Self-appraisal: Understand your strengths and weaknesses, and how they align with your passion. Judge your skills with a neutral approach so that you understand which course would suit your temperament.
  • Focus on long-term goals: When you choose your course, try to find out how you would be able to carry on with it in the long run. Is there scope for higher studies, and will going for it have a positive impact on your career? These are some important questions to consider.
  • Study the curriculum: Before you finally decide on a career, it is important to take a careful look at the scope of the study – subjects covered, on-field exposure, and new skills acquired. Overall, if it sounds exciting to you, the course is for you.
  • Take professional advice: Talk to people who have already studied the course and now have a career path you idealise. Doing this will help you set expectations and focus when academic pressure builds up.
  • Identify a viable career path: It is important to have a career to pay your bills; so you must at some point think about the financial aspect of it. Get to know more about the career choices you have after studying commerce in this article, which will help you streamline your thoughts.

How to choose careers after studying commerce

Let us now take a look at some of the most lucrative job profiles that aspirants have in mind when they choose commerce.

  • Chartered accountant: One of the most coveted professions, CA requires you to clear three levels of exams conducted by ICAI. Once you clear the exams, the sky is the limit when it comes to growth, as you can even have your own CA firm!
  • Certified financial planner:  As a CFP, you would have the opportunity to work in top banking and management companies as a financial or wealth advisor, or even a cost analyst!
  • Company Secretary: To say the least, the top HR managers choose commerce after school, and after a brilliant academic performance, are placed in top companies in this prestigious role.
  • Investment banker: One of the most glamorous positions on offer, this profession would guarantee your foothold as the decision maker in all your company’s major decisions, such as valuation of securities, merger negotiations, stock issuance, etc.
  • Cost accountant: As a cost accountant, you will be responsible for auditing and scrutinizing financial documents. If you are good at your work, you could land your job with one of the Big 4 companies!

Financing your commerce education loan

There are a lot of financiers available in the market vying for your attention. However, you should only make your choice after carefully examining and comparing your options. These are the basic things you should check:

  • Eligibility: The non-banking sector is well-known for processing customer requests as fast as possible. They can afford to do that because they are not finicky with documentation as much as large financiers. However, that does not mean they do not carry out a background check before lending out money. With cutting-edge AI technology integrated with their system units, they are more efficient than the credit-scoring method in ascertaining creditability.
  • Collaterals: Certain financiers might ask you to pledge collateral against the loan amount. If the loan amount is significant and you have collateral to pledge, only then proceed with such deals. Otherwise, it is safe to opt for ones that cut a little slack in this area.
  • Repayment period: It is best to read the fine print before applying for a loan from NBFCs. Calculate the amount of money you have to repay by the end of the grace period (moratorium) and plan ahead of time so that you are not put in a spot in the eleventh hour.

To sum up, choosing your career in the commerce domain can be challenging because there are so many lucrative jobs to choose from! To help you with the financial aspect of commerce courses, NBFCs compete for your attention in the online marketplace. These financiers have maintained a good growth rate over the years, and it is safe to transact with them for a perfectly customized educational loan. So, choose the right one, get into the course of your choice, and fulfil your dream!

Freelance Workers: The Game Changer in Modern  Organizational Design 

In recent years, the rise of the gig economy and freelance work has created seismic shifts in  the business world. These changes are not only transforming how we work but also the  structures within which we operate. The growth of freelance work is significantly influencing  organizational design, with matrix management emerging as a promising technique to  navigate this new landscape. 

The Gig Economy and Its Impact on Work 

The gig economy, characterized by flexible, temporary, or freelance jobs, is burgeoning.  With advancements in technology and changing work preferences, more individuals are  choosing the freelance route over traditional employment. According to a recent report by  Upwork, 59 million Americans performed freelance work in the past 12 months, accounting  for 36% of the U.S. workforce. 

This shift has profound implications for organizational structures. Traditional hierarchical  structures are being challenged by the fluidity and flexibility required by freelance work. 

Freelancers and the Challenge to Hierarchical Structures 

Traditionally, organizations have been built around hierarchies. However, these structures  often fail to cater to the dynamism and autonomy characteristic of freelance work.  Freelancers operate outside of these conventional structures, often collaborating with  multiple departments or teams and working across different projects. 

This changing workforce calls for more adaptable and flexible management systems,  capable of fostering collaboration and communication without stifling the autonomy that  attracts many to freelance work in the first place. 

Matrix Management: A Solution for the Gig Economy 

Matrix management could be the answer. This organizational approach involves managing  employees via two or more reporting lines, rather than through a traditional linear  management structure. In matrix management, workers report to both a functional,  discipline-specific supervisor and a project or product-based supervisor.

This dual-management system suits the gig economy well, offering the flexibility and fluidity  that freelance work demands. It encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and aligns well  with the project-based nature of much freelance work.  

Moreover, matrix management is inherently suited to coaching, a leadership style  increasingly prevalent in modern organizations. In a matrix setup, managers often act as  coaches, guiding team members across different projects and helping them navigate their  roles. This coaching approach helps freelancers, who may need guidance in understanding  the company’s processes or culture, and fosters a culture of continuous learning and  development. 

Implementing Matrix Management in a Freelancer-Driven  Organization 

Implementing matrix management in an organization reliant on freelancers requires careful  planning. Clarifying roles, responsibilities, and reporting lines is crucial to avoid confusion.  This can be achieved through detailed job descriptions, explicit project charters, and clear  delineation of responsibilities. Moreover, effective communication is key to ensuring  everyone understands their roles and the overall project objectives. This can be facilitated  through regular updates, collaborative tools, and open forums for discussion. 

There are challenges, too. The potential for conflict between different managers or confusion  over responsibilities requires careful management and strong leadership. To address these  issues: 

  • Regular team meetings should be held to discuss progress, address concerns, and  foster a sense of community. These could be in the form of weekly check-ins or  monthly roundtable discussions. 
  • Clear communication is paramount. Utilizing tools like Slack, Trello, or Asana can  keep everyone on the same page and ensure transparency. 
  • Solid conflict resolution strategies should be in place. Training managers in conflict  resolution, setting up mechanisms for issue escalation, and fostering a culture of  openness and respect can help prevent and address potential conflicts. 

Additionally, to ensure success, it is crucial to cultivate an organizational culture that  supports matrix management. This could include values such as collaboration, adaptability,  and continuous learning. Coaching can play a critical role here, helping freelancers feel  supported and integrated within the organization. 

The Future of Organizational Design 

The mounting influence of freelance work presages a transformative era for organizational  design. Given its inherent flexibility and adaptive nature, matrix management is poised to be 

a central figure in this transformative narrative. Enterprises that embrace these shifts and  integrate more malleable structures are likely to stand out in the competitive race for top  freelance talents. As the gig economy flourishes, such adaptable structures are set to  become standard, replacing the exception. 

Wrapping Up 

The swelling tide of freelance labor forces businesses to reassess their traditional structures.  The old guard of hierarchical models is yielding ground to more versatile methodologies,  such as matrix management. As the ripples of the gig economy expand further, the necessity  for businesses to evolve grows stronger. They must welcome models that champion  innovation, nimbleness, and collaborative synergy. Within this landscape, matrix  management, with its intrinsic ability to adapt and a strong focus on coaching, stands out as  a formidable tool to steer through the dynamically evolving business topography.

5 Passive Income Apps For Your Smartphone

In our fast-paced world, smartphones have become essential to our daily lives. We rely on them for communication, entertainment, and productivity. But did you know that your smartphone can also be a source of passive income? Discover how you can effortlessly earn money with these five apps specifically designed to generate extra cash.

Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a highly popular app that provides numerous opportunities to earn rewards for completing simple tasks. It offers a diverse range of activities, including watching videos, taking surveys, shopping online, playing games, and even searching the web. Each task rewards you with points called “Swagbucks,” which can be accumulated and redeemed for a variety of options, including gift cards from popular retailers or cash via PayPal.

One of the key advantages of Swagbucks is its versatility. Whether you have a few minutes during your commute or some downtime in the evening, you can easily engage with the app and start earning rewards. Watching videos and taking surveys are particularly popular options, as they require minimal effort and can be done on the go. Additionally, Swagbucks frequently offers special promotions and bonuses, allowing you to maximize your earnings.

Acorns

Acorns simplifies the process of building wealth by enabling users to invest their spare change automatically. The app links to your bank accounts and credit cards, rounding up your purchases to the nearest dollar and investing the difference in a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds. This innovative approach allows you to gradually accumulate investments without even realizing it and indulge in micro-investing easily.

One of the key advantages of Acorns is its accessibility. It eliminates the barrier to entry that often deters people from investing, particularly those who may have limited knowledge or experience in the financial markets. Acorns’ user-friendly interface and intuitive design make it easy for anyone to start investing with just a few taps on their smartphone. Furthermore, the app offers different investment portfolios tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance, ensuring that your investments align with your individual needs.

Airbnb

If you have a spare room, vacation home, or even an unused property, Airbnb allows you to list and rent it out to travelers from around the globe. With the Airbnb app installed on your smartphone, you have a powerful tool at your fingertips to manage your rental property effortlessly. Apps of this kind have been trending for a while, meaning it is a viable way to earn extra income.

Listing your space on Airbnb is a straightforward process. You can upload photos, write a compelling description, and set your own pricing and availability. The app provides a secure platform for communication and bookings, allowing you to interact with potential guests, accept reservations, and handle logistics such as check-in details and cleaning services. The flexibility of Airbnb also means that you can decide when to rent out your space, whether it’s on a regular basis or only during specific times of the year.

Honeygain

Honeygain is an innovative app that enables users to earn passive income by simply sharing their internet connection. By installing the Honeygain app on your smartphone, you become part of a global network that harnesses your unused data for web intelligence tasks. These tasks can include web scraping, content delivery, market research, or ad verification, among others. In return for allowing Honeygain to utilize your internet connection, you receive a portion of the revenue generated by these tasks.

One of the standout features of Honeygain is its seamless integration into your daily routine. Once the app is installed and activated, it runs in the background without interfering with your regular internet usage or browsing experience. This means that you can continue using your smartphone as usual, whether for work, social media, or entertainment, while Honeygain works silently in the background, monetizing your unused data.

Slidejoy

Slidejoy replaces your default lock screen with engaging content, including curated news articles and targeted ads. Every time you unlock your phone, you earn virtual currency called Carats, which can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including gift cards or cash via PayPal.

One of the key advantages of Slidejoy is its effortless integration into your daily routine. By seamlessly replacing your lock screen, the app ensures that you come across valuable content and ads every time you access your phone. Whether you’re checking messages, making a call, or browsing apps, Slidejoy’s lock screen presents an opportunity to earn rewards with just a simple swipe.

In conclusion, your smartphone can be a powerful tool for generating passive income. The apps mentioned in this article offer various ways to earn money effortlessly, whether through surveys, investments, renting out properties, or even just using your phone as you usually would. With a little effort upfront, you can set yourself up for long-term passive income streams.

Amplify Your Music Career: Unleash the Potential of YouTube Promotion with Promosoundgroup

In today’s digital era, music promotion is essential for artists looking to make their mark in the industry. At Promosoundgroup, we specialize in helping artists maximize their exposure through effective YouTube promotion strategies. With millions of users worldwide, YouTube has become a music discovery and engagement powerhouse. In this article, we will delve into the transformative power of YouTube promotion and how Promosoundgroup can assist you in harnessing its potential to propel your music career forward.

YouTube Promotion: Unlocking Your Online Presence

YouTube promotion is a game-changer when it comes to expanding your online visibility. At Promosoundgroup, we understand the significance of YouTube as a platform to reach a vast audience. Through targeted marketing tactics, captivating video content, and optimization techniques, we help artists like you enhance their presence on YouTube. By optimizing your channel, creating engaging videos, and implementing strategic promotion campaigns, we ensure that your music captures attention, resonates with viewers, and gains momentum.

Engaging Visuals: Captivating Your Audience

In the visually-driven world of YouTube, creating compelling video content is crucial. Promosoundgroup recognizes the importance of captivating visuals in attracting and retaining viewers. We collaborate closely with artists to develop innovative concepts, storyboard captivating music videos, and produce high-quality content that leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s through breathtaking performances, narrative storytelling, or stunning visual effects, we strive to create videos that captivate your audience, strengthen your brand, and ignite engagement.

Targeted Advertising: Connecting with Your Ideal Fanbase

At Promosoundgroup, we leverage targeted advertising strategies to connect you with your ideal fanbase on YouTube. By utilizing YouTube’s advanced ad targeting options, we ensure your music reaches the right audience at the right time. Through in-depth audience research and analysis of demographics, interests, and viewing habits, we optimize your ad campaigns for maximum impact. Our expertise in audience targeting helps you reach music enthusiasts who are most likely to appreciate and engage with your content. This targeted approach increases views and subscribers and fosters meaningful connections and long-term fan loyalty.

Partner with Promosoundgroup for YouTube Promotion Success

YouTube promotion is invaluable for propelling your music career to new heights. Promosoundgroup offers the expertise, industry knowledge, and tailored strategies needed to navigate the competitive YouTube landscape. With our focus on unlocking your online presence, creating captivating visuals, and implementing targeted advertising, we empower artists to maximize their reach and impact on the platform. Partner with Promosoundgroup today to unleash the potential of YouTube promotion, connect with a global audience, and open doors to new opportunities. Together, we will amplify your music career and leave a lasting impression in the world of online video.

The Hidden Smiles: How H-1B Visas Benefit the Dental Profession

The H-1B visa program, a non-immigrant visa granted by the United States to highly skilled foreign professionals in specialized fields, is a cornerstone of America’s success in fostering global talent. This program has attracted expertise across diverse industries, enhancing the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Amid various industries, the dental profession has particularly benefited from the H-1B visa program. This blog explores the ways in which H-1B visas have proven advantageous to the dental profession, ultimately improving the quality of oral health care in the U.S.

Bringing Specialized Skills and Knowledge

Firstly, the H-1B visa program brings international talent into the U.S. dental profession, adding an enriching element of diversity and contributing to a more comprehensive knowledge base. Foreign-trained dentists often bring unique expertise, perspectives, and training methodologies that can enhance the field. Their diverse skills and unique approaches to dentistry can lead to innovations in treatment, prevention strategies, and patient care models.

Addressing Workforce Shortages

The healthcare industry is projected to grow 13% from 2021 to 2031, creating high demand for medical professionals. The H-1B visa program also plays a crucial role in addressing workforce shortages in the dental field. Some parts of the U.S., particularly rural and underserved areas, face a significant dearth of dental professionals. By allowing qualified foreign professionals to practice in the U.S., the H-1B visa program helps fill this gap, ensuring that more people have access to quality dental care.

Bridging Cultural and Linguistic Gaps

Dentists hailing from different countries can better serve diverse patient populations in the U.S. They can help bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, offering more personalized and sensitive care to patients from various backgrounds. This enhanced patient care can lead to better patient satisfaction and improved oral health outcomes, especially for underserved or marginalized communities.

Encouraging Research and Innovation

H-1B visa holders often engage in research and teaching roles in addition to their clinical duties. They contribute to the body of scientific knowledge, drive innovation, and train the next generation of dental professionals. Their fresh perspectives and experiences can stimulate new ways of thinking, leading to breakthroughs in dental science and patient care.

Fostering Global Collaborations

The H-1B visa program also encourages global collaborations. The exchange of knowledge, skills, and ideas can result in a better understanding of global health issues and the development of effective international health policies. These collaborations can potentially lead to advances in the dental field, improving oral health care not only in the U.S. but also worldwide.

The Application Process

There is currently a maximum of 85,000 H-1B visas granted each year therefore it is a highly competitive program. The first step in the process for a dentist seeking an H-1B visa is to obtain a job offer from a US employer. Dentists must work with their employer sponsor to then complete the multi-step process of applying for a visa. The process can be complicated and time consuming, dentist can seek the guidance of a qualified attorney to help navigate the process and help with any challenges.

The Value of H-1B

While the H-1B visa program may be just a policy tool, its impact on the dental profession in the U.S. is tangible. It helps bring a diverse range of skills and experiences into the field, addresses workforce shortages, bridges cultural and linguistic gaps, and fosters innovation and global collaboration. In doing so, the program not only strengthens the dental profession but also enhances the quality of oral health care for all.

As we continue to navigate a world where cross-border exchanges are becoming increasingly crucial, it’s important to recognize and harness the value that the H-1B visa program brings to the dental profession and the healthcare sector at large. Indeed, in the smile of each patient cared for by a foreign-trained dentist, we see the quiet but profound impact of the H-1B visa program, ensuring America continues to smile brightly.

30 Ways to Make $100 This Week

You have been racking your brains out to try to get a bit more cash. You have surely thought of everything that is reasonable. But it is a big world out there. There are tons of websites that will help you in your venture. So here is a quick guide to some of them and how you can use these websites to help earn a bit of quick cash.

1. Earn Money by Taking Surveys Online

Many survey websites pay respondents to complete their online polls. In this way, you may earn $100 in a week. You may earn money doing surveys from anywhere thanks to the many survey websites that are accessible. These websites will compensate you for participating in their online surveys:

2. Play Games to Make Money

There are several methods to gain money, but none of them are as enjoyable as earning money via gaming. You may be paid to play games and gain rewards on your online purchases by utilizing services like Swagbucks or InboxDollars.

Furthermore, you have the chance to gather points, gift cards, and other credits that may be converted into cash. Since you can win with this program even when you lose, it is much better! Yes, if you successfully answer questions, you will gain additional points. Additionally, your wins are paid out right away, unlike other gaming programs. You may play with your friends for even more fun. Click here to join SwagIQ.

3. Online English Chat to Earn Money

Thanks to Cambly and Spoken English Practice, you may converse in English or another language with people. You don’t need any preconditions. All you need is a smartphone or laptop, access to WiFi, and some spare time. It is that simple. Making money online doesn’t get easier than this. Therefore, sign up with Cambly and give it a try.

4. Test Websites and Applications for Money

Many website proprietors value the views of website visitors. The feedback they get from users like you help them improve the website. As a site tester, you will be compensated for visiting a website, doing specified tasks, and providing comments. Examples of this include both web and mobile applications. It’s a terrific way to make money while you’re idle. Simply click to begin using UserTesting as a tester.

5. Work as a Virtual Assistant

Working as a virtual assistant is a fantastic way to start earning money online. Virtual assistants assist online publishers and company owners with a range of duties, including updating websites, simple proofreading, publishing on social media, and more. Your skill level will determine how much you are paid as a virtual assistant, although most earn between $12 and over $25 per hour. To get an idea about Virtual Assistants click here, or to start working as VA on Upwork.

6. Babysitting Job To Make Cash

Babysitting is a quick way to make money on the weekends and in the evenings if you have some free time. One of the best ways for teenagers to make money is as a babysitter, who often charges more than $20 per hour. You might start by asking your relatives and friends if they know of anyone who could require your services for babysitting. Additionally, you might look at websites like Sittercity and Au Pair in America.

7. Get a Part Time Job

Even though it may not be the simplest or most enjoyable technique to earn additional money, this method is one of the most reliable. A fantastic way to earn more money with only a few extra hours each week is to take on a part-time job.

You may work numerous part-time occupations, such as:

  • Operating a store.
  • Serving or waiting tables.
  • Serving drinks in bars.

8. Investing in Real Estate To Get Cash

A tried-and-true way to earn a lot of money over time is by investing in real estate. You can start investing in real estate using a website like Fundrise with as little as $10. It is one of the quickest methods to double your money since they are adding the bonus of offering new investors $10 for free.

9. Transcription Job as a Hustle

Transcribers convert audio and video material into written documents. You could appreciate working from home as a transcriptionist if you can type quickly. General, legal, and medical transcription are some of the most popular specialties.

Typically, transcriptionists are paid per audio minute rather than per hour; however, this might vary depending on the firm you work for. The following are some of the top locations to look for remote transcription jobs: Daily Transcription and TranscribeMe.

10. Drive for Uber or Lyft

One additional great way to earn $100 or more per week is to work as a ride-share driver. Your quality of service and the city you drive in will determine how much money you can earn. Because tips make up a portion of your revenue, providing excellent service is crucial if you want to earn the most.

Meals and grocery delivery applications like DoorDash or Instacart let you deliver food to customers while you’re not working if you want to drive alone.

11. Clean Homes

Cleaning houses may be an excellent method to generate money and earn $100 per week or more if you don’t like doing the cleaning. If you already have the necessary tools, such as a vacuum, mop, and other cleaning equipment, you may begin cleaning houses right away. You may advertise your services on a platform like NextDoor or Facebook Marketplace to attract clients.

You may also see if anyone you know needs cleaning by asking your relatives and acquaintances. If you want to know how to start this business, click here.

12. Watch Videos for Money on Your Phone

Did you realize that viewing videos online may earn you money?

You may access the website, view videos, and make money at home if you have some additional time.

These films may range in duration or topic, but the majority of them would be advertisements, news reports, or viral videos.

Even some of the websites encourage users to play video games for money.

If you recommend friends to the website, you may also get bonuses.

You may use the following websites to make money online by viewing videos:

13. Recycle Junk to Make Money

To earn a little additional money, earlier generations used to look for cans and bottles to recycle. If you’re creative enough, you can recycle a wide range of items.

Collect recyclables like plastic water bottles and soda cans. Take them to a recycling facility after you have enough to fill a garbage bag with them.

The best course of action is to sell your recyclables in bulk, as you won’t earn much money doing this. You can avoid making a few journeys by doing this.

Request water bottles and soda cans from your relatives and friends as well! You’ll have more money to sell to your neighborhood recycling facility as a result.

14. Pet Sitting Job for Cash

If you like taking care of animals, pet sitting might be a nice side job to have. With the potential to earn more than $50 a day in some places, this side job is the ideal choice for just about everyone. Create a profile on a website like Rover to get connected with local pet owners right now. As a bonus, you may charge extra for dog walking services to increase your earnings.

Here is a list of apps and websites to assist you locate the greatest pet-sitting jobs if you think you have what it takes to be a pet sitter.

15. Earn Money by Teaching Students

If you are an expert in a field, you may earn money by teaching students in-person or online. If you like teaching and have the patience to assist others in learning, this is a terrific opportunity to earn some additional cash.

You may start by using online resources like Tutor.com or by physically tutoring students via a nearby organization. Depending on your expertise and the topic you are tutoring, you may expect to earn between $15 and $50 per hour.

There are many methods to make money with your language talents and you may accomplish it by using your linguistic expertise if you’re interested in doing so and have language skills.

Particularly you can help or assess younger people and people who speak English as a second language to make money online. The following website provides such type of opportunity.

Exercise is beneficial for so many reasons. You can live longer and reduce weight thanks to it. However, there is now still another benefit to working out: you can be paid for it. The top fitness-related applications and side hustles are listed below: The top fitness-related applications and side hustles are listed below:

16. Create and Sell an eBook

Create an eBook in particular and market it online. Selling your eBook is simple with Amazon.com since they handle everything. You may also use Word or Google Docs to write your ebooks and then convert them into PDFs. Additionally, you may participate in deal programs like the one offered by UltimateBundles and sell your books on your website. Every few months, Ultimate Bundles offers a huge selection of materials on a certain subject for a bargain price. It’s a fantastic technique to promote yourself.

17. Get Someone Else To Do the Work for You

Although it seems illogical, the majority of businesspeople earn money when they are sleeping. Employ someone else to do it, then pay them a percentage of the money while keeping the rest for yourself. The plan is to get a contract for some tasks that pay relatively well and then employ another person to complete the assignment.

You give them a lower payment and retain the difference. You won’t need to work very hard and can earn some money while you sleep if you can find enough jobs. Jobs that fit this notion of passive income will include:

  • Bookkeeping
  • Landscaping
  • House Cleaning

Recruiting new customers would be your responsibility, and all service work would be handled by your assistant or a third party. Where you earn the most money is when you sign up for recurring, monthly contracts.

18. Online Options to Earn Money

You may hire a cheap virtual assistant via Upwork or Fiverr for contracts requiring online labor, such as programming, design, or graphics for websites.

19. Amazon FBA as a Hustle

Start your own company and make money by selling products on Amazon. Selling goods on Amazon as a third party is possible using Amazon FBA (Fulfilment by Amazon).

20. Rent Out Your Spare Room

You may generate income from a spare room in your home. Rent it out to a lodger for a brief or extended period. This may reduce your mortgage expenses and be a passive source of additional income.

Even if you don’t have a room to rent out, how about renting out your whole home instead? Imagine receiving compensation to take a vacation! See how much you may earn with Airbnb.

21. Data Entry Job for Cash

The longest-running occupation is data input. Data entry is entering a transcript—either on record or in hard copy—into a computer database. Basic typing and computer skills are required, but most jobs offer training and assistance, making this a great opportunity for newcomers.

Although data entry jobs don’t often pay much, the labor is usually simple and basic. Axion Data Services, Conduent, and Capital Typing are a few businesses that employ data input employees who can work from home computers.

22. Peer to Peer Lending Hustle

By eliminating traditional financial middlemen like banks, peer-to-peer lending is an internet platform that connects investors and borrowers directly.

By verifying applicants’ creditworthiness, setting interest rates, and managing the transfer of funds, P2P lending platforms serve as go-betweens and streamline the loan process.

Through the use of a third-party mediator, such as Lendee, a peer-to-peer loan is a transaction in which the lender and borrower loan each other money.

Lenders have the chance to get better returns on their investments thanks to peer-to-peer lending services, which match investors with borrowers in need of money. Utilize a website like GoPeer or Lending Club to get a return on your investment.

23. Become a Wiki Editor to Make Money

Wikipedia is the most visited website in the world and is a well-known platform for crowdsourced knowledge. When searching for information, Wikipedia often appears first in the search results and frequently offers helpful information on a broad range of topics.

Since Wikipedia is used as a marketing tool, writers are often hired to write for and create pages for businesses. This is done by page creators or editors who offer their services. One may double their revenue from one page by working as a creator, editor, and researcher thanks to their capacity for multitasking.

24. Become a Google Maps Guide

The “Local Guide Program” on Google Maps lets you accumulate points by submitting reviews, images, and other helpful details about nearby establishments. These points can be redeemed for various perks, including Google Drive storage, discounts on Google products, and even cash rewards.

Millions of people use Google Search and, more especially, Google Maps to find information on places to eat, shop, drink, or visit. This includes testimonials submitted by customers who have personally visited the establishment. Earning is possible through the Local Guide Program, a program that rewards users for contributing to Google Maps.

25. Become a Coach as a Hustle

When deciding on your area of specialization, there are many different sorts of coaches from which to choose. Several examples are:

  • Business Coaches
  • Blogging Coaches
  • Personal finance coaches
  • Life Coaches
  • Religious coaches
  • Relationship coaches
  • Career coaches
  • Fitness coaches
  • Personal development coaches

Coaching is fantastic because it is adaptable. You may do business over the phone and provide printable worksheets, materials, and any other things you intend to use through email while working from home.

Here’s how to get started if coaching seems like something you’d want to undertake as a side business.

26. Mow Lawns for Money

Another job that many people would want to completely avoid is mowing the grass.

In general, starting your own company may be simple and profitable if you mow yards for cash. You may start off with a little investment if you already have the necessary lawn care equipment.

You may make $100 per week by mowing two medium-sized yards if you have the necessary tools and don’t mind doing the work.

27. Sell Products Online for Money

It’s not a terrible idea to invest in it and attempt to sell your works online if you have a lot of creativity, a side passion, and are particularly skilled at a certain craft.

Whatever it is, there is a spot on the internet for it, whether it be handmade soaps, handmade candles, handmade jewelry, T-shirts, shawls, various articles of apparel, mugs, or pictures.

Nowadays, you can sell your handmade goods on a variety of online marketplaces and retailers, including Etsy, Amazon Handmade, Ruby Lane, Aftcra, and Folksy.

Launching a drop-shipping business will allow you to make money without having to deal with the merchandise directly. You’ll be linked to a different company, brand, or creative person in this manner.

28. Sell T-Shirts to Make Money

A smart and humorous phrase is required for a profitable t-shirt design. When selling t-shirts, you used to require a t-shirt printer and a large order of clothing, but now you can use websites like Redbubble and Amazon to accomplish it for free.

Such websites allow you to upload your designs and sell them on their online store. You may use your artwork to adorn many different products, such as hats, mugs, and sweaters, and you get paid each time one of your designs is sold. Inventory control, customer service issues, and delivery issues are never a problem. Both systems take care of everything. It doesn’t matter whether you lack design skills or think your creations are awful. You have two options: either learn Photoshop or pay someone to design your shirts.

29. Sell Stock Photos

Since photography is a service industry as opposed to many other passive income streams, you are often paid for the time you invest in it. Going to events or photo shoots to be paid as a photographer might grow boring after a time, even if you’re earning a lot of money. Check out Creative Fabrica to obtain incredible stockphotos!

You may, however, make passive money from photography if you work as a full-time photographer or have a high-quality camera by selling your images online. For high-quality images and videos, stock photography websites like Pexels and Shutterstock and other online media firms will pay.

30. Market Services on TikTok and Instagram

Local businesses need short videos and marketing material. Make money creating it and posting it, and sell this to local restaurants and businesses.

If you use TikTok to market items or advertise companies, and you post compelling advertising videos or other material to attract consumers, you may be able to make money with it.

You may also post these items on Instagram to spread the word about and advertise a brand or item in order to make money.

You may earn money by selling these videos or other material to nearby eateries and businesses.

There are several methods to earn additional income online. As long as you have a computer, an internet connection, some spare time, and a fully functioning brain, you can earn $100 each week online. The easiest method for rapidly making money online is to start by using a few simple tactics.

The Recessions Impact on Employment

There has been a heated semantic dispute among politicians, financial analysts, and market experts over the impending recession in the U.S. economy in mid-2022. Ultimately, the definition of the recession became a political point of contention. Generally, recession refers to two successive quarters of negative gross domestic product. According to this definition, the U.S. entered a recession in the summer of 2022.

The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) defines American economic cycles and has a different perspective. It defines a recession as a widespread and persistent drop in economic activity lasting over a few months. That means there was no recession in the United States during the summer of 2022. However, an economic slump may likely happen soon. The Federal Reserve is committed to maintaining high-interest rates until inflation declines. That could lead to a drop in economic activity that is difficult to deny as a recession.

The Great Recession Period

The Great Recession, a period of economic hardship that began in late 2007, significantly impacted unemployment rates. As the economy contracted and businesses struggled, millions of Americans lost their jobs. The unemployment rate increased from a pre-recession low of 4.4% in March 2007 to a peak of 10% in October 2009. The severity and length of the recession meant that it took several years for employment levels to recover.

One of the primary reasons for the high unemployment rate was the decline in consumer spending. As people faced financial difficulties, they cut back on non-essential purchases, decreasing demand for goods and services. That, in turn, led to businesses reducing their production, laying off workers, or closing altogether. The housing market also played a significant role in the economic downturn, with the collapse of the subprime mortgage industry resulting in a housing bubble bust. As foreclosures surged and home values plummeted, construction industries experienced significant job losses.

While the recession officially ended in June 2009, it took several years for employment levels to return to pre-recession levels. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted the country’s steady economic recovery, causing another spike in unemployment rates.

How Recession Relates with the Job Market

Unemployment Rate

With news of large-scale layoffs, especially in the tech industry, many are fearful of the current job market. During these widespread layoffs, it is important for employees to understand their rights. While these news stories may be alarming, the evidence shows the U.S. job market is still strong. Despite widespread economic uncertainty and worries of a further recession in the months ahead, the jobless rate has dropped to pre-pandemic levels and is lower now than a year ago. The consensus estimate for employment growth in the private sector in January was 188,000, while actual job growth in this sector was 517,000.

Initial Jobless Claims

Every week, the Labor Department releases new data on the number of individuals who have filed for unemployment benefits. Increases in the number of persons filing for unemployment benefits indicate a more widespread problem of job loss. Initial unemployment claims are at a nine-month low as of the last week of January, suggesting a healthy labor market. It is down from over 200,000 at the end of December, which was fairly stable throughout 2022.

Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey

While the unemployment rate has been low, the number of open positions is down from a year ago but still much over its pre-pandemic low. In January 2020, there were around 7 million employment opportunities, compared to the current 11 million. However, employee demand has decreased slightly, as there are over a million fewer job opportunities than only six months ago. While job availability is still high, investors are watching the development closely. If the employment market continues to deteriorate, the Federal Reserve may adopt a less aggressive monetary policy, resulting in a softer economic landing.

So, recession has a far-reaching effect on employment and the overall economy. However, unemployment rates recovered more swiftly after the last two recessions than they do throughout typical business cycles.

Sample Resume for Seaman: Tips for Creating the Perfect CV

The task of writing a seaman CV can be daunting. You need to stand out. You need to provide accurate background and credentials. A well-written CV will increase your hiring chances.  You should highlight your marine industry experience and expertise so you stand out from other applicants.

You can find an outline of what a sample resume for a seaman should include, advice on how to write a strong one, and a starter resume in this post.

What to Include in a Seaman Resume

A CV boils down tons of information about you and presents it on a single page. You must try to condense the range and variety of information and preset it using the established format. Use this time to highlight your uniqueness. This includes your training, credentials, training, and education. If you have won any awards or credentials, highlight them. Use the form to summarize your experience and achievements to show that you are suitable for the position.

How to Create an Effective Resume

You should adhere to a few of rules and best practices while preparing your CV. Make sure it is first concise and well-organized. Include just the most crucial details in concise paragraphs. Utilizing high-quality typefaces and styles is also crucial. Ensure that your work stands out from the competition. You will distinguish yourself from other candidates thanks to your maritime knowledge and experience.

Additionally, depending on the job you are applying for, you should alter your CV. Your cover letter should highlight your pertinent credentials while using terminology and expressions pertaining to the position. Your summary must also be tailored to the job you are applying for. This will help you convince the shipping firm that you understand the position and are the best candidate.

Last but not least, proofread your resume before sending it. As a result, your resume will be error-free and punctuation-free. If you’re considering opportunities beyond maritime roles, you can also discover construction jobs where attention to detail and proper CV presentation are equally important.

Experience and Education Requirements

When writing a sample resume for a seaman, the most important section is the Experience and Education Requirements. It is essential to include a list of all the qualifications and certifications that are necessary to work in the field, such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certification, and a Radar Observer Unlimited Certification. In addition, it is essential to include any practical experience that has been gained on board vessels, such as the type of vessel, the duration of the voyage, and the position held.

Personal Information

Start with your basic info about yourself such as name, phone number, and email address. Cover your nationality and work status (green card) if applicable. You do not need to disclose date of birth, or marital status, in the personal information section. Double check the phone number and email address to be sure they are accurate as your employer will need to use them to contact you. List licenses and certifications you hold, such as your boating license, safety certificates, and medical education. Cover your strong points as a candidate, including your capacity for problem-solving, your capacity for organization, and your capacity for communication.

Professional Objective

The professional objective section of a sample resume for a seaman should be concise and to the point. It should clearly state the individual’s goal and what they are hoping to achieve in the role. Additionally, it should include any qualifications or certifications that are held, such as STCW certification or a Radar Observer Unlimited Certification.

References

Refer to any relevant connections who can vouch for the applicant’s qualifications in the references section of the sailor resume example. Include former employers, coworkers, or teachers who may provide a positive reference.

Conclusion

Stand out from the competition by including pertinent information, using a professional font, and tailoring your resume to the position you’re seeking. Additionally, proofread your CV before sending it. Here’s an overview of what a seaman resume should include, advice on how to write one that stands out, and a starter resume.

6 Reasons Why Job Seekers Should Contact a Technical Recruiter

When you want to find a job in IT, you may search for opportunities yourself. You may ask your acquaintances for opportunities, browse job boards and social networks as well as post your CV online and wait for responses. Alternatively, you can resort to the services of a dedicated recruitment agency. You send your CV to an agency and explain what you want. The recruiter will find the most suitable position for you and ensure you’ll get it on the most lucrative conditions. In this article, we’ll list six reasons for opting for using the services of a recruitment agency.

Recruiters Know Inside Out the Tech Job Market

Let’s imagine that you’ve worked for 10 years for some company. Now, you want to quit it and find another job. You take the CV that you used 10 years ago to land your current position. You add just one thing to it, the information about your experience with your current employer, and post this CV on job boards. You might wonder why you get few responses and the offers are far from what you’re dreaming of. You start sending out the same CV as a response to job offers and the results are far from being impressive. What’s wrong?

The IT labor market is incredibly dynamic. A decade is a long time for it to change. Here are just a few examples of what might have gone wrong:

  • New skills have come to the forefront — and those that used to be paramount years ago have lost their importance
  • You might need to restructure the information in your CV to set priorities in a new way
  • You won’t know which types of employers to focus on and which ones to bypass
  • You might need to fine-tune your salary expectations because specialists of your qualification have become much more or considerably less available

If you start investigating the modern market trends on your own, it might take you several weeks. You’ll need to compare your CVs with others, read articles and explore the results of research studies. Nevertheless, you won’t get the expertise of a dedicated recruiter.

A professional recruiter can save you a lot of nerve and effort. They will be able to precisely assess your strong and weak sides. They will know which types of employers should be most interested in you.

Think of yourself as a product — a recruiter will find an appealing package for you. They will “sell” you to the employer as a valuable asset. It’s good both for your self-esteem and your budget because you won’t stay jobless for too long.

They Will Help You Better Understand What the Employer Expects from You

Your previous employer might have hired you because you knew how to handle specific tools and technologies. Today, many specialists might be able to do it — and your unique selling point consists in the fact that you’re used to working with a DevOps engineer and catering to a particular type of customer. Without a recruiter, you might fail to guess about that. The better you understand the employer’s expectations, the better you’ll perform and the more lucrative conditions you can ask for yourself.

Recruitment Services for Employees Are Free or Very Affordable

Typically, it’s the employers who pay money to recruitment agencies in exchange for their assistance. Companies have a much higher paying capacity than individuals. Some agencies might charge a fee to candidates but it will be a reasonable sum. Anyone can afford this service — and get a dream job in return.

Recruiters Have Access to a Much Larger Pool of Vacancies, Compared to Open Job Boards

Job boards are imperfect because:

  • Not all employers use them — some prefer to search for talents in a more clandestine manner (for instance, because they don’t want to waste time on candidates who fail to 100% meet their requirements)
  •  The interface of some boards is outdated and there are bugs
  •  There are scammers and fake job postings

The recruiter will help you avoid scams and dead ends. You won’t have to send out the applications and follow-ups yourself. The agency representative will assist you in scheduling interviews.

All the vacancies that they will offer you will be from real and reputable companies. The recruiters personally know the HR managers of these employers and can guarantee their honesty.

You’ll Have Higher Odds of Landing a Job That Best Suits Your Demands, Skills and Experience

HR managers are usually not tech-savvy. They might make mistakes in job titles and descriptions. You might think you apply for a certain role but… When you get in touch with the hiring company, it turns out that they meant something else in their job ad.

The worst thing about job boards is that employers may be not ready to answer questions. They want to receive people’s CVs and not spend hours explaining things twice to candidates. Recruiters can directly contact the employers to clarify the details and double-check whether you indeed fit the vacancy.

The agency representatives keep large amounts of precious information in mind. When they get to know who you are, they will quickly understand where to look for a job for you. They won’t need to search by trial and error or revise the database of openings from scratch. They will narrow down the search, based on your competitive edges.

Recruiters Can Negotiate the Best Salary for You

How can you guess which salary to ask from your new employer? You may try to:

  • Ask your acquaintances about how much they earn in the roles that you’d like to have
  • Check the numbers in the offers on job boards
  • Explore the results of market research
  • Avoid exploring the market and ask for a sum that you find attractive

The figures that you find by using these methods might be either random or too generic. As a result, you may find a perfect employer and ask for a salary that would seem suspiciously low to them. They will doubt whether you’re professional enough and you’ll fail to get an excellent job. Or, you might ask for too much money and miss a vacancy that doesn’t pay too well but offers other perks — such as flexibility, free education and good growth opportunities.

A recruiter will make sure you get the most generous salary possible. Firstly, they want you to be happy and spread the word about the agency among your colleagues. Secondly, recruiters earn a predefined percentage of the accepted candidate’s salary — the employer will pay it to them in exchange for finding an ideal professional. That’s why the agency will be negotiating very enthusiastically.

How to Find a Good Recruiter

To secure the best results, you should pick the most reliable and professional agency that specializes in IT recruitment in Poland. It’s essential that it ticks the following boxes:

  • Has been around for at least a few years
  • Has a comprehensive web presence (the official website and social network profiles where you can get exhaustive information about it)
  • Clients leave positive testimonials about it
  • When you contact the agency, its team responds promptly, talks politely and eagerly answers all your questions

Znoydzem.com can serve as a worthy example. It meets all the above-listed criteria and is an established brand in the IT labor market. It works with candidates with any level of experience and handles all types of vacancies: full-time, remote, hybrid or project. Feel free to reach out to it and you’ll have very good odds of landing a top-notch job soon.

How Can You Improve Your Software Testing Skills?

Software testing is an important part of the software development process. It ensures that the application you’re building is up to industry standards and meets customer expectations.

Software testing includes functional testing, which checks if features work correctly. Unit testing tests individual components, while integration testing ensures system parts work together. Regression testing finds issues after updates. Performance testing checks speed, and security testing finds vulnerabilities. Usability testing ensures the software is user-friendly and efficient.

To be successful in software testing, it’s essential that you constantly strive to improve your skills. In this blog post, we will discuss a few tips on how to do just that. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pro, here are some ways to improve your software testing skills:

1. Take Certification Courses or Classes 

Taking courses in software testing can help you gain a better understanding of the process and give you the skills necessary to be successful. There are many options for certification, from online certifications to boot camps. These courses often include topics such as black box testing, functional testing, test automation, and more. Additionally, you can check ISTQB foundation courses that can provide you with more comprehensive knowledge in software testing. This way you can stay ahead of the competition and become an expert in the software testing field. Furthermore, some certifications require you to gain experience in the field, so make sure to practice what you learn. Finally, certificates are not only a way to show your competency, but also a great way to open doors for career advancement.

2. Read and Research Industry Practices 

In order to be successful, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest industry practices. This can include reading blogs, attending conferences and webinars, or even joining groups focused on software testing. You can also learn from other testers by working collaboratively or asking questions when needed. Additionally, researching the principles of software development is a great way to further your understanding of the process and allow you to evaluate strategies more effectively.

3. Practice What You Learn 

The best way to improve your skills is by getting hands-on experience with the technology and processes involved in software testing. Practicing what you learn through tutorials or practice tests will help you develop a better understanding of how things work and give you an advantage over other job applicants. Additionally, participating in hackathons can give you the opportunity to work on live projects and learn from experienced testers while building your portfolio.

4. Ask for Feedback 

Asking for feedback from colleagues and peers is also an effective way to improve your software testing skills. Working with others will help you get valuable insights into different approaches or techniques that could benefit you. This could include receiving constructive criticism about what went wrong during testing, or learning from the mistakes of others. Additionally, getting feedback from other testers can help you gain a better understanding of how successful software is created and tested. Furthermore, it’s important to remember that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it shows initiative and helps you stay ahead in your career. 

5. Stay Up-to-date with New Technologies 

Finally, staying up-to-date with new technologies is an essential part of being a successful tester. As technology advances, so do the tools used to develop and test software applications. Keeping track of emerging trends will allow you to use the most efficient tools available and give you a competitive edge when seeking employment or promotions in the software industry. Additionally, staying on top of the latest trends can help you stay ahead of any challenges that may arise during testing. 

These are just a few of the ways you can improve your software testing skills. It’s important to remember that becoming a successful tester is an ongoing process, so don’t be afraid to push yourself further and challenge yourself with new technologies and strategies. Good luck!

Is Microsoft in Trouble? Tech Giant Announces Another Round of Mass Layoffs While Google Announces 88% Growth Since 2020

Microsoft let go a significant number of workers last month, in a continuing round of layoffs that began earlier this year. While the tech giant didn’t verify the precise number, authentic sources like Axios have mentioned that around 1000 employees lost their jobs. The layoffs were cross-departmental, leading analysts to the conclusion that Microsoft isn’t faring too well.

Microsoft seemingly confirmed this conclusion as a spokesperson talked about how the company has to take another look at its priorities and “make structural adjustments”, according to a report by CNBC. They also said that sales for Windows licenses for PCs have been slowing down, leading to possible panic.

A Look at Microsoft’s Layoffs

The most recent layoffs affect less than 1% of Microsoft’s staggering workforce of 181,000 employees, but they still might be cause for some concern. The company reiterated that these were structural changes and it will add additional workers in the upcoming year. However, news from other sources has been grim, with Gartner reporting a 12.6% decline in global PC sales and shipments when compared to the second quarter of 2021.

These October layoffs have been the third wave of such occurrences, with Microsoft slashing roles and shutting down new openings earlier during the year. The company also announced a 10% revenue growth plan in the fiscal first quarter, the lowest in the last five years. While the job loss has been spread across departments, gaming and government services sustained the deepest impact.

Layoffs in the Tech World

The general economic situation, geopolitical tensions, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict are just some of the factors that have impacted Big Tech in a negative way over the past two years. Add a possible threat of looming recession and you have the perfect combination of fear and panic that leads to people losing their jobs. According to Crunchbase, approximately 32,000 employees across the U.S. tech industry have lost their jobs since July.

These layoffs are at the door of massive names in the tech industry. Elon Musk just announced a mass layoff that gets rid of 50% of Twitter’s employees, in a move he claims is unavoidable. The alternative was costing Twitter a loss of around $4 million a day. Musk has joined the ranks of other tech giants like Meta, Salesforce, Netflix, Coinbase, and Oracle, which has considered mass layoffs to save millions of dollars.

The Case for Google (Alphabet)

The pandemic has turned out to be very beneficial for the growth of Google. From 2020 to September 2022, the company’s annual revenue has grown by over 71%. This shows a promising and glowering future of Google ahead. However, the extra revenue boost with the pandemic has slowed down a bit now. Moreover, the economic crunch has somehow snapped at Google’s door too, as the company cut roughly 50% of its Area 120 staff earlier this year. Google chose to proceed with quiet layoffs, which is where companies reorganize teams and subtly ask employees to find new roles. It’s a way of easing them into it, though losing your job can never be easy.

These cuts came after the CEO announced a necessary increase in productivity across the company. He said that a 20% productivity boost is crucial for the business to keep running smoothly. The decision for these layoffs came after a mass hiring wave in the last two to three years, with the CEO saying that growth at Google has been slower than he would have liked. The layoffs will streamline and simplify company processes.

Microsoft Vs. Google: A Look at Growth

Despite the mass layoffs, both tech giants have been faring pretty well in terms of growth. Microsoft reported $51.9 billion in total group sales in the fourth quarter ended June 30, 2022, a 12% increase in comparison to last year’s same quarter. Alphabet/Google experienced a 13% boost in its year-on-year revenue, but saw a loss in profits by 14%. However, Google did report a 12% increase in revenue from online advertising, equaling $56.3 billion.

Both tech giants have reported lower revenues when compared to historic data, but this doesn’t mean that either of them has slowed down with growth. In fact, Microsoft has reported an operating income of $20.5 billion, an increase of 6% if compared to last year’s quarter. Microsoft is also enjoying revenue from its cloud, reporting $25.1 billion in the June quarter and $25.7 billion in the September one.

However, Google Cloud has been catching up despite comprising around 1/4th of Microsoft’s Cloud business. Google Cloud reported a revenue of $6.276 billion in Q2 and then $6.868 billion in Q3, showing an increase of $592 million. That’s very close to Microsoft’s $600 million revenue jump.

How does Mass Layoffs Impact Investors?

While mass layoffs may be a cause for concern to the larger public, investors may have a different view. In certain cases, investors feel safer when companies lay off employees because this means an increase in overall profits and strategic cost cutting. Investors get more bang for their buck and enjoy higher dividends.

Both Microsoft and Alphabet/Google present strong portfolios and have distinct competitive advantages. The companies have rapidly growing cloud businesses, excellent and multiple growth drivers, solid financials, and a history of good decisions to back them up. Google might be the slight better bet when it comes to investing, but that’s only because it presents a high annual ROR (Rate of Return) at the moment.

Which Tech Giant is in Trouble?

The truth is that neither Microsoft nor Google are floundering in any way. The mass layoffs indicate a larger problem across the tech industry and have affected workforce in companies, like Meta, Snap, Netflix and more. Employment compensation was reported to be the most expensive cost for a number of these companies and had to be cut out. This doesn’t mean that the companies aren’t doing well.

Both Microsoft and Google have their fingers in many pies, figuratively speaking, and while they might have had to scale back from certain areas, they’re expanding into others. While Google seems like the better choice to invest in due to Google Cloud’s rapid growth, Microsoft has a vast and diverse portfolio, meaning that the company isn’t facing any serious stagnation or losses. For the major part, the trouble is being experienced by the workforce and not Microsoft or Google.