How to Be Competitive in a Tight IT Employment Market

A slumping economy, emerging technologies, and over-hiring have led to a tight IT jobs market. Yet positions are still abundant for individuals possessing the right skills and attitude.

1 Min Read
5 job seekers sitting in chairs waiting for an interview
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The IT job market has become highly competitive in recent months, particularly for individuals seeking remote or hybrid roles, since many employers are now focusing on a return to office, says Jeremy Rafuse, vice president of IT and digital workplace head at remote management and support, and business communication software firm GoTo. "There are still signs of positive growth, however," he notes in an online interview. Rafuse points to a recent report from the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) indicating that the US tech workforce is expected to experience an increase of 300,000 jobs in 2024. "That means there are still great opportunities on the horizon for those with the right skillsets." 

Getting Hired 

IT pros looking for employment can separate themselves from the competition by stressing their technical and soft skills, Rafuse says. "On the tech front, applicants should show their experience with AI and machine learning, technologies that many companies have pivoted toward in the last few years," he observes. Yet Rafuse observes that it's also important to demonstrate an aptitude for management, security, and customer experience. "Other integral soft skills include strong communication, emotional intelligence, and patience." Such attributes indicate an ability to work as part of a team and larger workforce. "This can make all the difference when seeking to stand out in a deep applicant pool." 

Related:ITPro Today 2024 IT Salary Survey Report

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About the Authors

John Edwards

Technology Journalist & Author, InformationWeek

John Edwards is a veteran business technology journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and numerous business and technology publications, including Computerworld, CFO Magazine, IBM Data Management Magazine, RFID Journal, and Electronic Design. He has also written columns for The Economist's Business Intelligence Unit and PricewaterhouseCoopers' Communications Direct. John has authored several books on business technology topics. His work began appearing online as early as 1983. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he wrote daily news and feature articles for both the CompuServe and Prodigy online services. His "Behind the Screens" commentaries made him the world's first known professional blogger.

InformationWeek

InformationWeek, a sister site to ITPro Today, is a trusted source for CIOs and IT leaders seeking comprehensive and authentic coverage of the constantly evolving world of technology and its impact on business. Our experienced and ethical journalists conduct in-depth examinations of crucial issues and the impact of global events on IT operations and strategies, helping forward-thinking executives stay at the forefront of their industries. InformationWeek also provides a platform for enterprise IT leaders and leading tech companies to share their insights and experiences through exclusive interviews, opinion pieces, and events, offering firsthand accounts of strategies, trends, and innovations.

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