As the tech industry continues to expand and drive the economy, new employment opportunities continue to rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics data, there are now a whopping 3.97 million jobs for IT professionals in the U.S. The use of blockchain, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, automations, and other savvy tools have become essential for businesses across the globe. While the IT job market stays booming, it also proceeds highly competitive, forcing candidates to find ways to differentiate themselves from the competition.
When it comes to any job, it’s important to have a general understanding of the industry as a whole – the same goes for IT. In some cases, selecting a niche can set candidates apart from the pack. Talent should decide what kinds of problems they want to solve, and hone in on learning the languages and software surrounding it. Focusing on a specialization can hold superior value proposition, assist with high level conversations and networking, and help develop a personal brand. These territory roles require specific knowledge that often lead to generous compensation, however, require continuous education for technology, which is always evolving.
Aspiring developers, engineers and analyst should fully immerse themselves in the IT universe. Whether this means listening to a new podcast, subscribing to webinars or newsletters, or following their favorite IT leaders on social media, learning from others can provide insights and skills that drive long-term success. Publicly sharing new findings and connections also shows employers the candidate is up-to-date and committed to the ever-changing industry.
While technical skills are vital for most IT-related jobs, soft skills are increasingly among the most important skills sought out by employers. Soft skills are attributes that allow someone to come off as relatable and interact effectively with others. According to IT Resources, the top soft skills that hiring manager look for in 2022 include problem-solving, conflict resolution, high emotional intelligence, positive work ethic, and adaptability – proving to boost overall productivity and retention.
Internships and networking events are a great opportunity to gain soft skill experience. This year, CSI Companies’ CIO Melissa Fulmore-Hardwick launched an internship initiative that connects students in Jacksonville’s underrepresented communities with the IT industry. She encourages the students to be strong communicators in their career to drive innovation.
“The technology leaders of the future are people leaders,” she said during the 2022 Tech Coast Conference Women’s Panel.
Today, professionals in the industry not only need to grasp how technology is being used, but where it’s going. The constant evolution of frameworks, and even roles themselves, require IT professionals to immerse themselves that much more. While the accelerating changes and development may seem limitless, it’s more important than ever for employers to hire qualified, devoted, IT talent. If candidates are prepared, a rewarding career awaits.
Check out CSI’s nationwide job listings here.
For nearly three decades, CSI Companies has provided customized workforce solutions for leading businesses and Fortune 500 companies. As a boutique division of RGF staffing, one of the world’s largest providers of HR services, CSI has the tools to deliver solutions in talent, technology, advisory, and managed services.
