Change, The Constant In The IT Workplace

Today's job market, especially in IT-related jobs, is increasingly difficult. In comparison with other industries and professions, IT is still one of the strongest areas in terms of job growth, salary, and overall need. What's often left out of the news and analysis of the IT sector, is the ultimate need of adaptability, constant skill improvement and refinement, and optimism about the future.

Change is the only constant in the research, development, and deployment of Information Technology. Without change, we would still be answering analog telephones, writing COBOL on mainframes, and communicating on token-ring networks. While the need for these technologies still exists, the persistent learning curve for upcoming 'standards' is omnipresent.

For the millions of us graced with the fortune of being involved in our exciting industry, this idea of change has always been instilled from the moment we first began our careers. There's something exciting about the upcoming new frontier that pushes forward a consistent desire for IT professionals to adapt and adopt.

Disturbed About The Job Marketplace?
We, as all in today's economic rollercoaster, wonder about the future of our long-term careers. As I have read article after article about ways to cope (within IT) with the situation, there are a few key points that I firmly believe are important to remember.

1) Offer the 20,000 ft. view: There are many within the industry that excel at once certain product, technology, or vendor. While these people are invaluable to the field and the organizations they support, modern-day HR firms and recruiters want those who can "do it all". Having the ability to offer a birds-eye view of the integration of many technologies, systems, and environments, is critical.

2) Embrace change: IT should be a passion for those who work with it. It's about problem solving, compromise, and coordinating the delicate convergence of business and technology. The more you discuss, read, and learn about the area in which you work is valuable to your future development and the success of your overall career. Change is inevitable... be ahead, not behind it.

3) Create an Identity: Strengths and weaknesses are part of everyone's career. While I might be great at marketing solutions and technologies to customers and/or executives of my organization, you may be stronger on the technical details of the solution. Make yourself known for your strengths, and ask others to help identify your weaknesses. Become a point-person for a technology, or a specific system.

While challenging, the modern-day situation of our industry is exciting as ever. With competition at an all-time high, only the best and most innovative products, ideas, and people will succeed, benefiting all.