54 pc of IT pros says job market will pick up in 2012

ATLANTA, USA: A study released by Randstad Technologies shows that IT employee job attachment is declining, with both retention and engagement levels falling from last quarter (eight and six points respectively).

The new findings show IT workers have mixed emotions about 2012 with half expecting their companies will cut benefits in the New Year and a surprising 48 per cent believing their companies will expand their workforce, said a press release.

Fifty-four per cent also believe that they will receive a raise next year.

The findings for this quarter also showed that IT employees say their organization has a great future (81 per cent) and their company is making the right investments for the future (67 per cent).

While only 25 per cent are worried about losing their jobs, workers in IT are more likely than employees in other industries to take precautionary measures to prepare for a potential job loss.

The survey further added that IT employees are more likely to put more money towards savings (37 per cent), check job boards (31 per cent), and network via online sites such as Facebook & LinkedIn (28 per cent).

IT Employee Predictions for 2012:

* 54 per cent believe the job market will pick up in 2012 (8 per cent higher than employees overall)

* Almost a quarter (22 per cent) say it is likely they will get a pay cut

* 50 per cent of IT workers agree it is likely that their company will cut back on benefits

* 78 believe it is unlikely they will receive a promotion

IT Career Attitudes:

* 74 per cent of IT employees feel inspired each day to do their best in their jobs

* 33 per cent of IT workers disagree their company shares their values

* A majority of IT employees (63 per cent) enjoy going to work every day

* 66 per cent believe their efforts at work are recognized and valued

IT Job Attachment:

* Retention and engagement levels for employees in the third quarter have dropped (engagement by 6 points and retention by 8 points)

* 43 per cent of IT employees are likely to seek a new job in the next 6 months

* 75 per cent of IT employees feel secure in their employment

* 49 per cent of IT employees are likely to accept an enticing job offer