Clicks IT Recruitment’s latest quarterly index shows an increase in IT professionals’ confidence across a number of measures. In some areas, new records have been reached, and across others, a return to pre-COVID levels.
IT professionals’ confidence is buoyed by the belief that there are plenty of jobs available, with 38% of respondents reporting a positive perception of the IT job market. This figure is the highest in five years. The strongest positive sentiment previously reported was 29% in Q1 of 2021. This result also represents a 15% increase since the prior quarter. The positive sentiment about the IT job market could be why half of the respondents share that they are actively looking for work, and 83% indicating they would be open to new opportunities in the next 12 months.
Our previous report showed that IT professionals’ levels of optimism have bounced back strongly in 2021. The last three months (from March to June) have been no different. 59% feel positive about their ability to find work. At the height of COVID this fell to 37%. IT professionals are feeling less concerned about job security and more positive about the Australian economy and their overall employment prospects.
The results of this survey will present many challenges for hiring managers and recruitment teams. Top candidates are likely to have multiple offers under consideration, alongside counter-offers from their current employer. Although more candidates are entering the market, the IT industry is a competitive sector that remained relatively resilient to the impacts of COVID. Additionally, many organisations have ramped up their hiring significantly, fuelling increased demand. The closure of international borders further constrains the channels organisations would normally have to source skilled IT professionals.
This means that communicating opportunities clearly and compellingly is critical. Employers can also incorporate D&I initiatives into their process to broaden their talent pool: communicate effectively to prospective employees through concise and unbiased position descriptions; create appealing, inclusive and gender neutral job ads; conduct well-managed interviews with diverse and well-represented panels; promote attractive employee value proposition and benefits; and competitive salaries. In short, hiring managers need to reconsider their processes and “sell” the opportunity to candidates, or potentially miss out to a hiring manager who does. A strong understanding of candidates’ motivations – not just their skills and experience – will be another important factor. Additionally, the hiring process should move promptly.
For any hiring needs, contact your Clicks Account Manager or call us on 1300 CLICKS for a confidential discussion. Clicks specialises in IT recruitment. Our recruiters average 12 years industry experience, and we’re on over 80 Preferred Supplier Agreements. As Australia’s favourite IT recruiters, we can help you find top talent, fast!
About the IT Employment Confidence Index:
Clicks IT Recruitment has been measuring the confidence of IT Professional over the last five years. Our survey includes a range of critical social and economic indicators that are measured around the world by leading institutions to inform business decisions.
