In the fast-paced world of tech recruitment, companies face a daunting challenge: the demand for Developers and Engineers in Microsoft technologies is soaring, with DevOps Engineers jumping a massive 37 places in the list of most in demand IT skills over the last year. Yet, there are significant roadblocks on the path to building a skilled and reliable tech team.
The Contracting Conundrum:
Head of Engineering roles have seen a 5% salary increase YoY with a 30% increase in daily rate on the contracting side. The Lead Cloud Engineer role has seen a remarkable 10% year-over-year increase in salary YoY, while the contracting field has experienced a 7% decrease. However, it's important to note that the demand for cloud engineering remains robust, with a ranking growth of over 200 places (according to ITJobswatch). Unable to commit to large salaries or compete to win the most experienced talent on the market, many organisations have turned to hiring contract staff as a short-term solution.
The Downsides of Contracting:
While hiring contractors can provide short-term relief, it often leads to unforeseen budget overruns due to project delays. Moreover, it may hinder strategic growth opportunities and knowledge transfer within the organization.
Benefits of Permanent Hiring:
In a tech sector where change is constant, employees who align with your company culture are more likely to adapt and excel. They bring ownership, dedication, and a collaborative spirit to your projects. The key to future survival is hiring for culture and attitude - finding candidates who not only possess technical skills but also resonate with your organization's values and mission.
Addressing the hiring challenge: build a talent pipeline
Start building a talent pipeline by recruiting entry-level professionals and interns. This approach develops talent from within, ensuring alignment with your company culture. How?
Futureproofing Through Mentorship:
Implement mentorship programs that connect experienced staff with newcomers. This knowledge transfer process cultivates the next generation of experts within your organisation.
Pairing Less Experienced Engineers with Short-Term Contractors:
A strategic approach is to hire less experienced Engineers and pair them with short-term contractors who bring expertise. This allows knowledge transfer in real project settings, where contractors share their expertise while permanent team members gain hands-on experience and develop their skills.
Investing in an Experienced Professional:
Consider hiring one or more experienced professionals who can serve as mentors and leaders within the team, providing guidance, knowledge sharing, and helping shape the company culture.
Building Skills with Microsoft Certification:
All of these strategies are underpinned by internal development. Invest in skill development programs for existing employees to foster a culture of continuous learning and upskill current team members, reducing the need for new hires.
The Power of Microsoft Certification:
Microsoft Certification is more than just a credential; it signifies a candidate's commitment to excellence in their field. It also provides a structured learning path to ensure that less experienced professionals are well-versed in the latest Microsoft technologies.
Our Commitment at Cognitive Group:
As a recruitment partner, we understand the challenges organisations face, to help alleviate some pain, we offer to pay for certifications for individuals we place/
By implementing these strategies, you can strengthen the case for investing in permanent Engineers and Developers. These approaches ensure that your team is equipped with the right knowledge, experience, and skills to drive the organization's success, both now and in the future.
Contracting Considerations
If contracting remains the preferred route, consider these vital points:
- Strategic Onboarding: Create a comprehensive onboarding process that integrates new hires seamlessly into your company culture and emphasizes the long-term impact of their work.
- Project Scheduling and Resource Allocation: Allocate resources and schedule projects with realistic timelines, reducing the urgency to hire contractors and preventing budget overruns due to delays.
If you're looking for Engineers of Developers to help build your Microsoft solution, get in touch: info@cognitive-group.com
