Hays Information Technology - January 2009

Hotspots

The areas of storage and virtualisation are gaining relevance as companies look to reduce costs. Implementations of Sharepoint (MOSS) for intranet usage are also on the rise due to ease of use, cost effectiveness and minimal ongoing support costs. Mid-level staff with 2 to 5 years experience and strong technical and functional skills are also in demand, although these candidates may need to revaluate their salary expectations in line with market conditions.

The coming quarter

Recruitment is ongoing in many sectors. Highly skilled technical candidates remain in demand, particularly in the public sector due to large government-funded projects. Public sector opportunities are attractive in the current climate due to their offering of greater job security.

Executive recruitment

Executive recruitment has slowed with candidates less inclined to leave their current positions, creating fewer vacancies.

Salaries

Salaries and contract rates may reduce in some areas as candidates begin to feel the pressure to lower their expectations and accept reduced rates in order to remain competitive.

Candidate trends

Available candidate volumes have increased across the board, particularly contractors whose contracts have come to an end over the holiday period, and candidates on 457 visas.