TECHNOLOGY CAREERS

Hiring Outlook 2008: IT’s “Most Wanted” Skills

No matter where the overall economy is headed, the outlook for IT professionals remains bright as 2008 gets underway. Indeed, despite some signs of economic uncertainty in the past few months, the IT industry continues to thrive. In a September 2007 poll by CIO.com, 58 percent of IT executives said the current credit crunch would not affect their budgets.

And, as in 2007, salaries are expected to climb this year, according to the Robert Half Technology 2008 Salary Guide. Ongoing business growth and renewed technology investments are driving demand for IT workers to the highest levels in several years. At the same time, there’s a talent crunch in the IT field, which makes it challenging for employers to find, recruit and retain staff. There also is the fact that many baby boomers are nearing retirement, leaving companies to fill existing and newly created roles.

You might say it’s the “perfect storm” of opportunity for IT professionals seeking a new job or simply curious about the state of the industry. However, though a strong need for skilled workers exists across the board, some positions are expected to be in even greater demand in 2008.

How does your expertise stack up in today’s environment? The 2008 Salary Guide suggests the following areas will have the “most wanted” skills in the coming year:

Microsoft .NET Development
Developers experienced in the Microsoft .NET Framework are a hot commodity as companies increase their investments in application and web initiatives. Expertise in this area is valued in positions from engineer to web developer, and firms expect professionals to know how to apply .NET skills to all aspects of the development and support process. As an extra bonus, candidates knowledgeable in this area can often command a 10 percent premium over their counterparts.

SQL Server Development
There’s a strong need for individuals with SQL Server development skills who can write code, including procedures, database scripts and triggers. Individuals with SQL Server development experience also can earn higher starting salaries – an average of 12 percent more, according to the Salary Guide – than those without these skills.

Windows Administration
You’re in luck if you possess advanced knowledge of Microsoft Exchange and Active Directory or are a pro with Windows Server 2000 or 2003. Robert Half Technology’s most recent IT Hiring Index and Skills Report found Windows administration to be the technical skill set most in demand in IT departments. Whether you are a systems administrator or help desk manager, those who can install, configure and manage ongoing maintenance of Windows servers are typically offered 10 percent higher pay than candidates without the expertise.

Network Administration
Expertise in this area is highly sought after as well, especially those IT professionals experienced with Cisco networks. Why? The ability to maintain and troubleshoot Cisco routers, hubs and switches is often required by network engineers, systems administrators and telecommunications managers alike. Our 2008 Salary Guide shows that those who possess proficiency in this area earn an average of 12 percent more than professionals who don’t have Cisco network administration training.

Database Management
Database management skills are needed to handle everything from implementation and upgrades to data analysis. Businesses need to keep their data well organized and secure; subsequently, they need business intelligence analysts, data architects and database managers. Oracle database and Microsoft SQL Server expertise are in demand, with professionals commanding salaries at least 10 percent higher than candidates without this knowledge.

Wireless Network Management
Fifty-three percent of chief information officers polled by our company recently cited skills in this area as the most sought-after in their IT departments. As wireless devices from tablet PCs to smart phones increase in popularity in the workplace, so has the need for professionals with wireless network management abilities to manage these systems. Messaging administrators and network engineers are helping organizations keep their clients, customers and staff members connected, and are critical to ensure products are compatible with a firm’s network and security infrastructure.

There’s a lot to look forward to in the coming year for IT professionals with the hottest skill sets. While you need to keep your technical abilities up-to-date and not forget about the importance of developing your soft skills, those with expertise in the areas discussed above can expect to see salary growth in 2008. If you’re offered a job, you may also be presented with bonuses, equity incentives and other perks, and those remaining with their current employers may notice a more active effort to retain their talents through pay raises or professional development opportunities. It certainly looks to be a good year for IT professionals!

Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of IT professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems integration to network security and technical support. The company has more than 100 locations worldwide. Search for jobs now or learn more at www.rht.com.