Opportunity still knocking for IT Professionals

The majority of IT professionals are still finding employment very quickly, despite the downturn. Thatís according to a survey commissioned by specialist IT recruiter, First Point.

Out of nearly 350 candidates recently surveyed, 50% found a new job within three months, while only 16% that said the process had taken a year or longer.

ìThese figures clearly show just how in demand good IT people are,î says Tom Fahey, First Pointís Managing Director. ìInformation technology remains a key business need across all industries. The fact that both permanent and temporary workers continue to find work in a short period of time demonstrates the value placed upon skilled personnel.î

However with redundancy a concern for many, additional survey figures show that 40% of candidates were ëvery likelyí to stay in their current roles for a longer period of time given the recession. The survey also shows that in addition, another 39% could be swayed to move, but stated that their decision would be strongly influenced by the role offered.

ìMany of those in stable employment could be tempted to make a moveî says Fahey. ìBut ONLY if the opportunity is right. There is a much more considered approach to changing jobs – including likely longevity, security and career opportunityî.

He concludes:

îNowís the time for candidates to draw strength from their experience, and for employers to truly benefit from engaged and enthusiastic employees.î

Candidates with software development (Agile; Scrum; .Net 3.5; Silverlight and Microsoft SharePoint) and software testing experience continue to find placements, as do those with strong business analysis and project management skills.