Saturday, 20 November 2010

The Growing Potential of the IT Industry

IT enthusiasts looking for a stable career choice should feel comforted by the fact the IT industry has not suffered excessively during the recession. In fact, in many areas it has grown, and this reliance on IT Consultants has led to demand far outstripping supply.

IT is a fast-paced and challenging industry in constant development as it adapts to new technological trends. IT and non-IT Graduates can enter the industry via Graduate Training Programmes or post-graduate training including specialist streams where there is particular growth and potential. New research reveals particular growth for IT services is being experienced in three key areas: 1. Improving security systems 2. Better project management methodologies and 3. Enhanced Infrastructure support.

Specialising in specific streams such as Testing, Development, Infrastructure Support or Project Management through to certification is particularly appealing to companies looking for a high degree of knowledge and skill to fit in with company requirements.

The Association of Graduate Recruiters reports that working in IT currently features in the top five sectors for graduate jobs, along with accountancy, the public sector and law firms. IT recruitment is currently at an all-time high.

If graduates pursue a career in IT, they can expect to earn anything up to £24,000 in their first year. This is £2,000 more than the starting salary in a science-related job and £4,000 better than the average starting salary of £20,000 according to the Higher Education Standards Agency and Workdigital. After a second year in IT, graduates can earn anything up to £27,000, and after their third year the sky is the limit as qualified IT Consultants possess the training, skills and experience to work across various roles in different business sectors across the globe.

Note: This post was based on a submission from Genna Singpo, Communications Officer with FDM Group who have just announced that they will be doubling their graduate intake to 1000 in 2011, thereby becoming one of The Times Top 100 UK employers.

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