Employers have long had difficulty acquiring information technology workers, as candidates are in demand, regardless of the job market. New research provides insight into IT hiring challenges and tips to help overcome them.
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Management Issues
A management survey, developed by IT staffing firm Robert Half Technology and conducted by an independent research firm, includes responses from more than 2,500 CIOs in 25 metropolitan areas in the United States.
The survey finds the most common barrier to landing the best candidates is not being able to meet salary demands (44 percent), followed by not finding enough qualified applicants (33 percent), and not being seen as an employer of choice (21 percent).
A lengthy hiring process is also a hindrance. Robert Half Technology research shows it takes an average of 4.5 weeks to fill a staff-level IT role. Not surprising, 41 percent of technology leaders say their hiring process takes longer than they would like.
Candidate Issues
A separate survey of more than 1,000 U.S. workers currently employed in professional environments, also developed by Robert Half Technology, seeks to examine the candidate experience.
From the candidate’s perspective, the most frustrating part of the job search is the long post-interview wait to hear if they got the job, according to 57 percent of workers. When asked how long they are willing to wait for a status update from an employer before losing interest in the role, 69 percent of workers said up to two weeks.
“The hiring process is often the first impression a candidate has with a company and can set the tone for the relationship,” said John Reed, senior executive director of Robert Half Technology. “Don’t let a long and complicated hiring process or lower-than-market compensation package leave an unfavorable impression with a job seeker. Keep the experience positive by presenting a competitive salary and moving quickly to make an offer.”
Tips for Greater Efficiency
Robert Half Technology offers five tips for keeping the hiring process efficient:
- Be prepared. Before posting a job opening, communicate with your team to determine the skills and experience needed. Use industry resources to research the latest salaries, benefits, incentives, and perks to see what you can offer.
- Work with a recruiter. If you’re short of time and resources to hire, contact a staffing firm that can give you accurate insights into the local market and assist you throughout the hiring process.
- Move quickly. Don’t allow too much time to pass between interviews, internal discussions. and the final offer. Have your key staff members meet top candidates so you can make a speedy and well-supported decision.
- Communicate openly and often. Be transparent throughout different phases of the interview process. Clearly describe the role, responsibilities, and compensation package, and always update your top candidates on their status and the next steps.
- Make an offer. When your team decides to extend an offer, make sure the compensation is fair and competitive. Have internal discussions with human resources to know your limitations in case of salary negotiations.
