While everyone breathes a deep sigh of relief – there’s still the question of what the heck is going on out there? Here’s my perspective:
1. There are still tons of opportunities out there in the IT market – we haven’t slowed down – we still have over 25 roles we have labeled as “very active” and over 100 roles we are searching for across the Development, Infrastructure, QA and Product Management niches.
2. We have heard language from clients that goes like this: “We are most interested in hiring for the roles that are closest to profitability” and “We have XYZ openings, but here are the ones we need the most, the rest can wait until Q1 of 09” and “We’re holding off on hiring until after the election” (ok, well, that’s over and the calls are coming in)
3. Networking, Data (either database or datawarehousing), System Admins, Information Systems, CRM, ERP, Product Management, Java Engineers, and QA Engineers are the hottest positions companies are looking to fill right now.
4. Your layoff could extend from one month to four on average – hiring time periods have extended as client have become selective.
5. Networking, socializing whether online or in person – both preferably – with recruiters and colleagues and peers and in groups of like minded folks – never more important than right now.
6. People currently working are as selective as companies who want them – We’re more careful when considering making a change – evaluating risk is an individual decision – some risk more than others. So consider your options and jump if you believe in the opportunity.
Keep an eye out for events FootBridge is Sponsoring in the next month – I will post those events here shortly.
The keywords for searching in this economy are: Patience, Respect (for the process), Networking and Organization. Utilize the people you know, have conversations, introduce yourself to new people – this will benefit you beyond your job search and well into the next steps in your career.
