IT Recruitment Outlook for 2008

UK-based field service engineers and software developers have the opportunity to significantly enhance their careers in 2008, thanks to specific and substantial demands from IT employers which look set to shape IT recruitment over the next twelve months.

According to Chris Short, MD of specialist IT recruitment firm Concept IT, there is currently a very high demand for, but low supply of, customer-friendly field professionals, and software developers who either have knowledge of Java, .Net and C# programming languages or are available to fill permanent positions outside of Central London.

Chris comments: ìThe escalating demand for field service and installation engineers with an awareness of customer service techniques reflects a continued focus by the IT sector on adding customer value, a competitive edge and identifying new business opportunities through field service operations. This trend offers a significant career development opportunity for many engineers who would like to secure a better paid position in 2008. While there is variation across different sectors, typically, an engineer servicing the office equipment market and who has received customer service training can realistically expect to earn 20% more on average than a counterpart in the same sector without advanced customer service skills.î

Chris continues by acknowledging that while the skills shortage that currently exists for Java, .Net and C# developers has been widely publicised in 2007, it is set to remain a challenge in 2008. ìDemand is still high for developers with these specific skill sets, because the market is waiting for a large volume of undergraduates to go through the university system and come out as qualified professionals. Until this happens, the next few years promise to be very rewarding for software developers who do have knowledge of these programming languages.

ìA trend has already emerged for skilled software developers to be drawn into highly-paid, flexible contract positions in Central London. Employers, however, are very reluctant to let these professionals leave their permanent positions for contract jobs in the capital. Currently, an average of seven out of ten job offers being made through Concept IT to software developers are being greeted by counter offers from existing employers. It is clear to see that it is a candidateís market at present and it looks like it will remain so throughout 2008.î

Chris explains that the effect of the London ëpullí on software developers is creating a burgeoning market for talent in areas surrounding the capital. ìCompanies based in the M1 Corridor ñ towns and cities from Milton Keynes to Watford and as far afield as Oxfordshire ñ are feeling the effects of the brain drain to London and are actively seeking competent and skilled developers to fill permanent positions. The demand is so high that Concept IT has even launched a team dedicated to servicing the needs of these businesses. To attract staff, these companies are promoting the benefits of a permanent role ñ security, the opportunity to be an integral part of a successful team and a defined career path. These opportunities outside of London offer a great package for developers looking to build a long-term, stable yet rewarding career.î

With regard to salaries, Chris explains that salaries for software developers are currently higher in the South East than elsewhere throughout the country, due to the London influence. That upward trend, however, might yet catch on in other regions throughout the year ahead especially in light of the skills shortage.

Chris concludes: ìOverall, I am expecting to see energetic levels of recruitment activity through 2008, with permanent and contract based employees being particularly sought after by IT employers, together with candidates who have specialist knowledge and skills which really set them apart. This will result in vast opportunities throughout 2008 for field service staff and software developers who want to advance their careers and improve their overall package and outlook as a result.î

Concept IT offers full service recruitment solutions from permanent and contract positions to psychometric and technical testing.