It’s no secret that technology is advancing at an alarming rate, and to keep up with this ever-growing industry it’s a good idea to get your head in the game and be prepared for what the new year might bring.
With that, we have designed this post to give you an idea of how to get a job in IT in 2016 and what key things to look out for along the way.
So join us as we jump straight in because a bit of planning could make your job search that much smoother by following these tips.
1. The evolution of the Internet of Things
Some may be surprised to find that the Internet of Things (IoT) isn’t actually a new thing. Rather, tech companies have been discussing it for decades, with the first internet-connected toaster unveiled in 1989.
It’s a fairly simple complex in that it’s about connecting devices over the internet and allowing them to talk to us, other applications and one another. But, where it seems to be the most popular is in home heating and energy use, with the government putting an emphasis on energy companies issuing smart metres.
Over time it has become apparent that the IoT is an important scope of technology. It encourages machine-to-machine communication and is built on cloud computing. Not to mention the fact that is it mobile, virtual and instantaneous.
Over the next year it’s possible that IoT is set to explode, with even more technological breakthroughs that promise to ‘smarten’ our lives in most aspects imaginable. Whether it’s going to offer opportunity or disrupt the technological world as we know it, it’s definitely something to keep in mind when searching for IT jobs in 2016.
2. The rise of freelance work
2016 might be the year that freelance work could very well become a more prominent feature in many companies.
In an effort to cut costs in the new year, companies could pay more attention to candidates that have freelance experience. This might vary from development to design and just about any IT speciality that doesn’t require an onsite presence.
For job seekers, this might mean a less than ideal job security but in turn, a lot more freedom. This could be ideal in IT jobs in 2016 because it allows people to be more flexible and offers them a broader range of skills, which is attractive to employers.
3. The decline of social media
This might come as a surprise to some people, as social media is still quite a popular form of communication. However, within the realm of IT, we could very well see social media die out. This is because some companies are finding it harder and harder to promote new products, as well as their services, through platforms such as Facebook.
Due to its potential decline, social networking will be on the lookout for new ways to bring people and businesses together. Therefore, 2016 could open many opportunities for people to design brand new apps in order to adhere to the change - so gather your greatest ideas and start building up your potential.
4. The potential of the ‘mobile-only’ takeover
It’s been an ongoing issue that desktop’s are out and mobile is in, but this could feature more heavily in the new year in terms of getting a job in IT.
Whilst some people still favour the traditional desktop, we cannot argue with the fact that mobile technology and responsive web design is flying the flag high in terms of modern technology.
Having experience in mobile technology will no doubt get you far in the new year because companies are going to want candidates that have the ability to keep up with the latest trends. It’s key to know mobile as well as you know desktop, so if you can create a mobile-friendly website, even better. In other words, don’t get left behind without having a sound understanding of mobile technology.
5. An increase in cyber warfare
As technology advances, so will the need for extra security. That’s why 2016 could be the year that specialists in the IT field will be in high demand.
Companies are going to pay close attention to keeping their data and other important information secure. So, if you have this experience under your belt, it could be a lot easier for you to get an IT job in 2016.
At the end of the day, if you think data is big now, just wait until the new year when the Internet of Things has expanded nearly every device and service you could imagine. Data requires a certain skill set, so if you want to land a job that will offer these prospects and more, think big!
6. Think creatively
Businesses are always on the lookout for new customers, and to keep their existing ones happy. That’s why it’s important for them to hire candidates that are creatively inclined and can think outside the box.
For this to be a success, candidates will have to be able to demonstrate fresh ideas and entice even the most millennial of customers. Newer and more connected apps are a brilliant way to showcase a creative edge, and a thirst for development and evolution.
Although it’s impossible to know exactly what will happen, it can’t hurt to prepare. And with the new year looming, what better time to start than now?
If you would like some assistance when looking for IT jobs and you don’t know where to start, why not see what Netsource have to offer?
