Finding that next rung on the career ladder can often be a daunting process with an expectation that a host of IT qualifications under the belt will set you apart from the crowd. Unquestionably having the tech skills in place can be beneficial but it's also important not to overlook the changing demands of the IT workplace as well as the checklist of other skills employers will look for.
The IT industry changes on a daily basis, with new technology and new qualifications emerging all the time. Keeping up to speed with the changes is becoming increasingly difficult and rather than hoarding accreditations and milking them for all they're worth on your CV, it's crucial you don't overlook the basics. It's often said that IT and business are one and the same, a sentiment which in today's industry is becoming more and more potent. The ability to demonstrate a flair and understanding of the business environment has found its way to the top of the recruiter's wish list, with businesses keen to employ IT professionals who can link their technological wizardry to the overall business objectives.
One area that best reflects this growing trend, is the demand seen for IT staff with Web 2.0 knowledge and qualifications such as Ajax and Microsoft's Silverlight. With many businesses keen to build a Web 2.0 presence, candidates with knowledge of these applications and an awareness of how they can work for the business on a wider basis are becoming increasingly popular. Even now, employers are ever more open to recruiting individuals with limited or no previous background in the world of IT, looking to those who can demonstrate an understanding of the business environment and apply it accordingly with the existing infrastructure.
As we all know, IT is a constantly changing industry and it's important IT professionals are aware of and adapt to the changes as best they can. When it comes to updating your CV or looking for a new challenge - knowing what the employer is looking for will help to put your CV on the top of the pile.
