Chief information officers (CIOs) are cautious about third-quarter hiring intentions.
Fifteen per cent of Canadian executives interviewed for the Robert Half Technology Hiring Index and Skills Report expect to add information technology (IT) staff, while two per cent plan personnel cutbacks. The net 13-per-cent hiring increase compares with a net 11-per-cent increase forecast last quarter, when results hit their highest level in nearly two years.
The majority of executives, 80 per cent, plan to maintain existing staff levels. Business expansion continues to be the leading factor driving IT hiring, cited by 72 per cent of executives. A need for increased customer and end-user support was cited by 17 per cent.
Technology executives at the largest companies are most optimistic about IT hiring plans.
“Businesses that have experienced layoffs are taking a more strategic approach to hiring today,” said Stephen Mill, regional manager of Robert Half Technology, a provider of IT professionals. “In the current economy, companies are striving to do more with less. The people who work for you are your best resource for increasing or improving results.”
Mill added that it is very important for candidates to possess a combination of advanced technical expertise and soft skills. The most important ones are proficiency in verbal and written communication; the ability to work with and motivate others; good listening skills; flexibility; and humour and empathy.
