* Report from Robert Half Technology projects net 12% increase in hiring this fall
The fall months may bring a boon in IT hiring, according to the results of Robert Half Technology’s latest report. The staffing firm is projecting a net 12% increase in hiring – the biggest since the third quarter of 2002.
Of the 1,400 CIOs polled as part of the Robert Half Technology IT Hiring Index and Skills Report, 16% plan to hire full-time staff in the fourth quarter of 2005. Another 4% expect staffing cutbacks, resulting in a net 12% increase in hiring for the last quarter.
Business growth is fueling the need to add IT staff and CIOs in industries such as finance, real estate and insurance forecast particularly strong hiring gains. As in previous quarters, networking is the specialty most in demand, as cited by 19% of respondents. In terms of particular networking skills, CIOs are seeking Windows administration (81%), SQL Server management (51%) and wireless network management (49%). (CIOs were allowed multiple responses.)
Regardless of your hiring plans, the demand for networking skills means you’d be wise to also concentrate on retaining the IT pros you already have. Katherine Spencer Lee, executive director of Robert Half Technology, notes that the improving job market and the decline in the number of computer science graduates is slowly shifting the market in the job seeker’s favor. “Technology professionals with the most desirable skill sets are beginning to receive multiple offers. Individuals who may have been dissatisfied in their positions in recent years also are starting to pursue other opportunities, making employee retention a growing concern for companies,” she says.
For more information, including a regional look at anticipated IT hiring for the fourth quarter, click here.
