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Using gadgets like smartphones can help obtain a career in IT, says recruitment expert

Many people use computers, smartphones and iPads as part of everyday life, for personal use and in the workplace. In fact, recent figures from the International Data Corporation revealed that smartphone sales have increased by almost 90 per cent since this time last year, as more and more people use iPhones, BlackBerrys and other gadgets to help them stay in touch via emails and the internet. But can a knowledge of these kind of gadgets really prove you have what it takes to succeed in a career in IT?

Well, the IT industry is fast-paced and develops very quickly – so employers are looking for people who are tech-savvy and able to pick up technology skills quickly and efficiently.

And the internet now enables people to stay in contact in a multitude of different ways, allowing workers the opportunity to work from home and travel with business.

Georgina Read, HR expert and co-founder of Reabur Ltd, a leading south-west-based HR consultancy, said that the people who will succeed in a career in IT will be those who are passionate about gadgets, continually expand their skill set alongside developing technologies.

Ms Read said that people who are tech-savvy and able to use devices like smartphones are an attractive option for employers, as they give the impression that they understand and feel comfortable using technology.

"[This is] an important factor for most organisations nowadays.

"More and more companies are expecting their staff to be contactable both at work and when travelling –and will provide electrical devices such as laptops and BlackBerry’s so they can communicate outside of the office.

"Certainly in the global business world, technology is increasingly important to ensure deadlines are met and location doesn't impact upon service delivery."

She added that because of the fast-moving nature of the IT industry, potential workers should make sure their skills are matched to the business they are aiming for, and also ensure there is a market for the specialism in mind.

Globally the IT industry is set to increase in the coming years, growing by 3.3 per cent in the next year, and in the next 12 months the UK will see a growth of 1.8 per cent until 2013.

And a recent report by Sector Skills Council e-skills UK showed that despite the recession, the IT sector is still hiring.

However, the e-skills council report highlighted the fact that there is a lack of people with the required skills, qualifications or expertise.

This is creating a problem for employers, half of which have experienced a shortage of people with the skills they are looking for.

So Ms Read advises those looking to develop their IT skills to take advantage of the numerous courses available, which, she said can really make the difference in getting a job.

"In addition, many jobs are only advertised online, and applications are often requested to be submitted via e-mail or through an online application process - therefore the need to be confident with keyboard skills is often tested early on," she added.

This opinion is echoed by Alex Farrell, managing director of The IT Job Board, which works with leading business and IT recruitment agencies across UK and Europe.

He said that despite the shortage of skills, recruiters will always employ the top talent.

"IT pros should be prepared to adapt to changing market trends and conditions, and work towards obtaining qualifications and/or experience in the core areas of demand," he said.

He added that in a competitive employment time as it is now, the 'best people' will be the ones with the jobs.

"IT pros can ill afford to 'rest on their laurels'; keeping on top of qualifications and obtaining experience will be key."

Mr Farrell referred to a recent survey the IT Job Board carried out, Skills in Demand, October 2010.

The report highlighted that the IT sector "will continue to seek specialists in the web services arena, as organisations across every spectrum begin to invest less in hardware and more in web-based and SaaS technologies".

He added that nearly half (46 per cent) of IT managers will employ staff with .net skills.

"Clearly, businesses will seek to recruit the more skilled professionals," he said.

So for those looking for a career in IT, while gadget knowledge will help, what will really secure a job is relevant training.