With a growing number of candidates, yet relatively stagnant job numbers, the real trick for IT pros is making themselves stand out--whether it be in the interview, in their qualifications, or through their CV.
Liz Duncan, director of IT recruitment at Robert Walters, told ZDNet Australia that there's an abundance of good candidates for positions at the moment. "[IT pros] have to find ways to articulate to clients their point of difference and their competency," Duncan said.
She suggests, initially, it's important to grab a prospective employer's attention in the front page or summary of a CV. "Those that do tailor resumes and summaries are going to be in front in [terms of] positioning," Duncan advised.
But she warns that it's still a very tough market for Australian IT pros on the job hunt, and she expects it to get tougher between now and Christmas. "Part of the problem is companies not wanting to spend a lot [on IT]--it's more going to be enhancing what they've already got."
Robert Walters receives up to 200 applications for advertised positions, according to information provided by the recruitment firm. "It is difficult to present shortlists of candidates when there are so many who can do the job and will accept a lower salary than they have previously been on," Duncan said in a statement.
Scope and complexity of projects worked on, experience with budgets, and commercial aptitude were among the areas Duncan suggested IT pros needed to highlight in their CVs. "It is essential to highlight the management of key relationships, including staff, vendors, customers and channel partners," she added.
Colin Westwood, NSW sales manager at recruitment firm Finite IT&T Careers, also warns that the industry can't possibly absorb the number of people it has shed over the past 12 months.
"The IT candidate base is getting much bigger," Westwood said. "The days are gone of just having a CV and seeing a job that's applicable."
He said applicants need to be putting together a CV which is specifically targeted, and to make sure the information included is accurate and truthful. "The number one thing they need to do is not tell a lie," Westwood said.
The ability to communicate and a commitment to their own professional development were areas Richard Melouney, general manager of training provider Spherion Education, saw as making candidates stand out.
"Communication skills are very critical and traditionally IT people are not seen as being good communicators," Melouney said.
He also cited project management skills as important for more senior IT professionals.
