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IT recruiters optimistic in face of downturn

The findings were revealed at the recent IT & Comms Sector Group meeting, which was attended by leading recruitment figures from the 159-strong group.

The results of the poll showed that IT recruiters rated their confidence in current market conditions as 6 out of 10; this was slightly down on the 7 out of 10 recorded at the group’s last meeting in June but showed stability in the sector’s economic outlook.

The results were supported by research from the latest REC IT & Comms ‘Demand and Supply in the IT Sector’ report, which showed an increase in the number of workers within the ICT sector over the Q2-Q3 period, despite advertised job vacancies falling for the third consecutive quarter. 

Jeff Brooks, Chair of the IT & Comms group, said:  “Business confidence in the sector is generally stable. In most, if not all organisations, IT provides the sinews to make an organisation operational, stable and productive. Much like the continual need for workers in the healthcare sector, despite the economic outlook, demand for IT contractors is still high. Specialist IT job roles are still vital to the economy.”

The IT & Comms sector group meeting also discussed the REC’s work to ensure that the EU Agency Workers Directive has limited impact on the sector. 

There were also guest presentations from Jack Fairhall, CEO of Kwiqq on Web 2.0, its benefits to recruiters,and who gave practical tips for ensuring that 2009 is a successful year.  John Kell, Policy and External Relations Manager at the Professional Contractors Group encouraged members to keep up good communication with contractors on such issues as IR35.