11 The People Analytics Translator

As you get more comfortable consuming people analytics you will naturally gain an ability to translate that information into ways that can be applied to your organization or career.

I came across an article explaining how the ‘data translator’ may be one of the most powerful analytics roles – and it doesn’t even require analytics! The article explained the importance of a data translator who bridges the gap between analysts and decision-makers. They simplify complex data and insights into clear, actionable insights. This article gave a label (translator) to something I hear every time an organization is looking to hire a new team member or level-up their people analytics. Regardless of what technical skills they have or feel they need on the team, there is one thing they are always looking for – a people analytics translator. Not just someone with analytics skills or just someone who knows the people side of the business, but someone who can connect data-informed insights to the needs of the organization. 

The first, best step to being an effective translator is being an effective consumer. Lucky for you, you are already on that journey! Each time you consume people analytics materials, you’re building a knowledge base and honing your ability to identify relevant insights.

But, it’s not just about absorbing information. True translators are critical consumers, asking questions and assessing limitations. They know how to assess available information for it’s applicability and alignment to the challenges and opportunities of the organization. They are also master communicators. Their strength lies in bridging the gap between data and action. They consume the insights of others, cultivate relationships with data experts, and connect the insights they’ve gathered from others to those who need to make data-informed decisions. Finally, they do this connecting through compelling and persuasive data storytelling that inspires action and leads to change.

Becoming an effective people analytics translator is a skill that is best learned by doing. So start by strengthening your translation muscles in the next section’s “Explore & Engage: From Consumer to Translator” activities and work to build these critical non-technical capabilities for people analytics translators with the actions in the “Self-Discovery: People Analytics Translator Skills” section.