From DICE, March 31, 2009...
Negotiating a compensation package can be intimidating, especially if you’ve been out of the job market for awhile. Returning job seekers worry whether their technical skills justify the going market rate, and if requesting an increase over their last wage could cause them to lose out to younger, less expensive candidates.
While a little flexibility might help you land a job, don’t sell yourself short. Dottie Austin, principal with Career Partners International / RW Caldwell Associates, a career transition firm based in Western New York, said she recently helped two laid-off 70-year-olds, one a CFO and the other an engineer, find new employment, both at their former salaries.
Read more...
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
High-tech sector seen 'weathering' downturn
From Marketwatch, March 31, 2009...
Despite year-end weakness, the high-tech sector added about 77,000 net jobs in 2008, with most of the growth occurring in software services, according to the 12th annual report of TechAmerica, a group that represents 1,500 companies. By comparison, high-tech added 79,000 jobs in 2007, 139,000 in 2006 and 87,400 in 2005.
The biggest declines in 2008 took place in the communications services and high-tech manufacturing areas, such as semiconductor production. Those segments lost a combined 35,800 jobs, TechAmerica found, extrapolating from data compiled by the federal government.
Read more...
Despite year-end weakness, the high-tech sector added about 77,000 net jobs in 2008, with most of the growth occurring in software services, according to the 12th annual report of TechAmerica, a group that represents 1,500 companies. By comparison, high-tech added 79,000 jobs in 2007, 139,000 in 2006 and 87,400 in 2005.
The biggest declines in 2008 took place in the communications services and high-tech manufacturing areas, such as semiconductor production. Those segments lost a combined 35,800 jobs, TechAmerica found, extrapolating from data compiled by the federal government.
Read more...
Monday, March 30, 2009
The coming collapse of IT jobs and wages
From Computerworld, March 27, 2009...
When a homeowner cuts the price of a house dramatically, real estate analysts have a word for it: capitulation, a surrendering to market forces. Something similar is arriving for IT workers.
Read more...
When a homeowner cuts the price of a house dramatically, real estate analysts have a word for it: capitulation, a surrendering to market forces. Something similar is arriving for IT workers.
Read more...
Report: Texas online job postings down
From Austin Business Journal, March 30, 2009...
Texas posted the largest decline of online job postings in March, according to new numbers from the Conference Board.
The state's online postings were down 16,500.
Meanwhile, the board’s Help-Wanted Online Data Series found online advertised job openings overall fell 100,000 to 3.2 million in March
Read more...
Texas posted the largest decline of online job postings in March, according to new numbers from the Conference Board.
The state's online postings were down 16,500.
Meanwhile, the board’s Help-Wanted Online Data Series found online advertised job openings overall fell 100,000 to 3.2 million in March
Read more...
Job market for techies to get healthier?
From Fortune, March 27, 2009...
Demand for tech professionals has been slipping of late, but Obama's plan to digitize health records may give it a shot in the arm.
Read more...
Demand for tech professionals has been slipping of late, but Obama's plan to digitize health records may give it a shot in the arm.
Read more...
How to get a job
From Fortune, March 30, 2009...
It's brutal out there. But the people getting hired aren't necessarily the most connected - they're the most creative. From food diarists to Twitter stalkers to candidates tapping the "hidden" job market, here's what's working now.
Read more...
It's brutal out there. But the people getting hired aren't necessarily the most connected - they're the most creative. From food diarists to Twitter stalkers to candidates tapping the "hidden" job market, here's what's working now.
Read more...
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Cover Letter Basics
From DICE, March 27, 2009...
We all could use a refresher on writing proper cover letters, since it’s easy to get away from the fundamentals in this era of the breezy, Internet conversation. TechCareers lists a few of the basic rules:
Read more...
We all could use a refresher on writing proper cover letters, since it’s easy to get away from the fundamentals in this era of the breezy, Internet conversation. TechCareers lists a few of the basic rules:
Read more...
The Next IT Push: Electronic Health Records
From DICE, March 27, 2009...
We’ve noted before that IT healthcare should be a good place for a career in the coming years, especially between 2011 and 2015. That’s when the industry will start to see the results of $20 billion in government funding allocated for health-information technology President Obama’s $787 billion stimulus package, according to an estimate from the Congressional Budget Office.
Read more...
We’ve noted before that IT healthcare should be a good place for a career in the coming years, especially between 2011 and 2015. That’s when the industry will start to see the results of $20 billion in government funding allocated for health-information technology President Obama’s $787 billion stimulus package, according to an estimate from the Congressional Budget Office.
Read more...
Security Skills Hold Their Value
From DICE, March 26, 2009...
Information security remains essential to any business, so many IT professionals want to figure out how to build up this expertise. In a recent interview with Qualys’ CTO Wolfgang Kandek, I asked him what he looks for when hiring in the area. Kandek explained practical experience is primary, while certifications are secondary.
Read more...
Information security remains essential to any business, so many IT professionals want to figure out how to build up this expertise. In a recent interview with Qualys’ CTO Wolfgang Kandek, I asked him what he looks for when hiring in the area. Kandek explained practical experience is primary, while certifications are secondary.
Read more...
IT Management Tech Still in Demand
From CIO Update, March 25, 2009...
Despite the overall decline in IT spending, companies are still investing in technologies that help control costs and enable businesses to work smarter. This according to an Enterprise Management Associates (EMA) report, At the Edge of the Storm: IT Investments from Jan/08 through Feb/09. The findings suggest that while IT spending overall is on the decrease, IT management software appears to be less affected by the downturn.
Read more...
Despite the overall decline in IT spending, companies are still investing in technologies that help control costs and enable businesses to work smarter. This according to an Enterprise Management Associates (EMA) report, At the Edge of the Storm: IT Investments from Jan/08 through Feb/09. The findings suggest that while IT spending overall is on the decrease, IT management software appears to be less affected by the downturn.
Read more...
Talking Salary
From DICE, March 25, 2009...
It’s considered one of the toughest interview questions, and it’s going to get even tougher. Companies are in a cost-cutting mode, often filling positions at lower salaries than they paid previous employees. During phone interviews, recruiters also are making it the first question as way to weed out candidates.
What’s the question? Something along the lines of, “How much do you want?”
If you this is the first question you hear in a telephone interview, some career consultants suggest you decline to give a specific number until you have a better understanding of the role, the company and the total compensation package that may be involved. But that approach may not always work.
Read more...
It’s considered one of the toughest interview questions, and it’s going to get even tougher. Companies are in a cost-cutting mode, often filling positions at lower salaries than they paid previous employees. During phone interviews, recruiters also are making it the first question as way to weed out candidates.
What’s the question? Something along the lines of, “How much do you want?”
If you this is the first question you hear in a telephone interview, some career consultants suggest you decline to give a specific number until you have a better understanding of the role, the company and the total compensation package that may be involved. But that approach may not always work.
Read more...
To Find Jobs, Follow the Government Money
From DICE, March 25, 2009...
Follow the money. That’s what a lot of companies and people are doing as money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - more popularly known as “the stimulus plan” - begins flowing into the economy.
For many who are looking for work, this could be a good way to track down the kinds of jobs that will emerge between now and the end of the year.
It may be a good idea for job hunters to start surfing the Internet and find out which organizations are getting money - and how much. Check the Web sites of your local government, politicians or political organizations. For instance, here’s one example from The Maine Democrat
Read more...
Follow the money. That’s what a lot of companies and people are doing as money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - more popularly known as “the stimulus plan” - begins flowing into the economy.
For many who are looking for work, this could be a good way to track down the kinds of jobs that will emerge between now and the end of the year.
It may be a good idea for job hunters to start surfing the Internet and find out which organizations are getting money - and how much. Check the Web sites of your local government, politicians or political organizations. For instance, here’s one example from The Maine Democrat
Read more...
Is California setup for a brain drain?
From Scobleizer, March 24, 2009...
Last week I got to meet Texas Governor Rick Perry (that’s a photo of him pointing to a picture on his office wall). The first thing he told me, after saying “I just Tweeted you” is “when are you going to move to Texas?”
Two years ago I would have laughed because California was definitely the best place to do a technology business. This year, though, it’s a little tougher to laugh at that suggestion.
Here’s why:
Read more...
Last week I got to meet Texas Governor Rick Perry (that’s a photo of him pointing to a picture on his office wall). The first thing he told me, after saying “I just Tweeted you” is “when are you going to move to Texas?”
Two years ago I would have laughed because California was definitely the best place to do a technology business. This year, though, it’s a little tougher to laugh at that suggestion.
Here’s why:
Read more...
Tech Pros Show Flickers Of Optimism
From Informationweek, March 24, 2009...
Two new surveys conducted by separate firms reveal that IT managers and software application developers are seeing some signs of hope related to the economy.
Read more...
Two new surveys conducted by separate firms reveal that IT managers and software application developers are seeing some signs of hope related to the economy.
Read more...
Layoff Warning Signs
From DICE, March 24, 2009...
For many people, it’s a challenge to keep their morale up, putting aside worries about layoffs and coming into work with a certain level of energy. This can be tough nowadays, when people feel the need to look over their shoulder for any signs of a layoff coming their way.
Sean Ebner, regional vice president for recruiting firm Technisource, recently compiled a list of what those signs might be. His intent isn’t to make you paranoid. One, two or three of these don’t necessarily mean you’re next. But if you see a developing pattern, well, be prepared.
Read more...
For many people, it’s a challenge to keep their morale up, putting aside worries about layoffs and coming into work with a certain level of energy. This can be tough nowadays, when people feel the need to look over their shoulder for any signs of a layoff coming their way.
Sean Ebner, regional vice president for recruiting firm Technisource, recently compiled a list of what those signs might be. His intent isn’t to make you paranoid. One, two or three of these don’t necessarily mean you’re next. But if you see a developing pattern, well, be prepared.
Read more...
Evolution in Data Storage Impacts Careers
From DICE, March 24, 2009...
In EnterpriseStorageForum.com, author Drew Rob discusses the current state of the data storage job market, laying out a pretty significant case for the rise of the IT generalist. The changes are impacting both existing data storage specialists and those with more rudimentary skills, particularly in mid-size organizations, where lower level jobs are being eliminated and specialists are asked to take on more responsibilities. Ultimately, these newly created generalist jobs will require a much broader skill set. Here’s what Rob and a few others had to say about the trend:
Read more...
In EnterpriseStorageForum.com, author Drew Rob discusses the current state of the data storage job market, laying out a pretty significant case for the rise of the IT generalist. The changes are impacting both existing data storage specialists and those with more rudimentary skills, particularly in mid-size organizations, where lower level jobs are being eliminated and specialists are asked to take on more responsibilities. Ultimately, these newly created generalist jobs will require a much broader skill set. Here’s what Rob and a few others had to say about the trend:
Read more...
Find Your Job By Going To A Conference
From Forbes, March 24, 2009...
If you're like most people, you find the idea of walking into a professional conference full of strangers and striking up a conversation pretty intimidating. But in these tough times, when networking is often the key to finding a job, it's a necessary challenge.
Professional conferences can be an ideal place to meet new contacts in your industry, find out which firms are hiring and get the inside scoop on companies you may be interested in working at. "It's one-stop shopping," says Howard Seidel, a partner at the career management firm Essex Partners, in Boston.
Read more...
If you're like most people, you find the idea of walking into a professional conference full of strangers and striking up a conversation pretty intimidating. But in these tough times, when networking is often the key to finding a job, it's a necessary challenge.
Professional conferences can be an ideal place to meet new contacts in your industry, find out which firms are hiring and get the inside scoop on companies you may be interested in working at. "It's one-stop shopping," says Howard Seidel, a partner at the career management firm Essex Partners, in Boston.
Read more...
Government Jobs You Should Apply For Now
From Forbes, March 25, 2009...
While companies large and small continue to shrink their workforces, the federal government remains on a steady hiring course across the country.
To help with your job search, Forbes digs through the U.S. Department of Labor's lists of open jobs to find the highest-paid professional positions and posts them once every other week. Along with the title, we'll tell you a little about each job and its salary range and provide a direct link to the official listing and online application.
Read more...
While companies large and small continue to shrink their workforces, the federal government remains on a steady hiring course across the country.
To help with your job search, Forbes digs through the U.S. Department of Labor's lists of open jobs to find the highest-paid professional positions and posts them once every other week. Along with the title, we'll tell you a little about each job and its salary range and provide a direct link to the official listing and online application.
Read more...
How To Make The Most Of LinkedIn
From Forbes, March 26, 2009...
It can be a great networking and job-seeking tool--better than most people know.
Read more...
It can be a great networking and job-seeking tool--better than most people know.
Read more...
Report: IBM plans to cut more U.S. jobs, shift work to India
From Computerworld, March 25, 2009...
IBM plans to cut "a large number" of U.S. jobs in its Global Business Services division and shift many of those positions to facilities in India, The Wall Street Journal reported today, citing anonymous sources.
Read more...
IBM plans to cut "a large number" of U.S. jobs in its Global Business Services division and shift many of those positions to facilities in India, The Wall Street Journal reported today, citing anonymous sources.
Read more...
Creating a better life after a layoff
From Computerworld, March 25, 2009...
Marty Bodley, a technology product developer who forged his own company just weeks after being laid off, shares his experience of what it was like to lose his job and start anew. His advice is useful, timely and encouraging.
Read more...
Marty Bodley, a technology product developer who forged his own company just weeks after being laid off, shares his experience of what it was like to lose his job and start anew. His advice is useful, timely and encouraging.
Read more...
Quick Tips for Negotiating a Severance Agreement
From Computerworld, March 26, 2009...
The moment you find out you're being laid off, when your boss tells you that your position is no longer needed, it's nearly impossible to think clearly, especially if the layoff is a surprise.
Because your mind is racing and your emotions are rising, it's one of the worst possible times to have to consider a legally binding contract-the severance package your employer may be eager for your to sign, says Martha Finney, author of Rebound: A Proven Plan for Starting Over After Job Loss.
That's precisely why it's so important for you to take the time to read and understand the severance package your employer is presenting, says Finney.
Read more...
The moment you find out you're being laid off, when your boss tells you that your position is no longer needed, it's nearly impossible to think clearly, especially if the layoff is a surprise.
Because your mind is racing and your emotions are rising, it's one of the worst possible times to have to consider a legally binding contract-the severance package your employer may be eager for your to sign, says Martha Finney, author of Rebound: A Proven Plan for Starting Over After Job Loss.
That's precisely why it's so important for you to take the time to read and understand the severance package your employer is presenting, says Finney.
Read more...
Monday, March 23, 2009
In Consolidating IT Industry, All Bets Are Off
From Information Week, March 20, 2009...
Polite vendor execs used to call it "coopetition"--the state of tech industry affairs whereby the fiercest of rivals could be the chummiest of partners depending on the circumstances and the market they're chasing. A more up-to-date and colloquial description of this industry dynamic might be: All bets are off. Some recent evidence:
Read more...
Polite vendor execs used to call it "coopetition"--the state of tech industry affairs whereby the fiercest of rivals could be the chummiest of partners depending on the circumstances and the market they're chasing. A more up-to-date and colloquial description of this industry dynamic might be: All bets are off. Some recent evidence:
Read more...
Top 10 IT locations
From PC Authority, March 23, 2009...
The information technology revolution may have spread around the globe but there are still some areas that are more IT friendly than most.
A decade ago people were talking about the death of distance, and how the internet would make physical geography irrelevant. This has not come to pass; there are still places around the world that are hubs of technology just as there are for air travel, product manufacturing or natural resource exploitation.
Read more...
The information technology revolution may have spread around the globe but there are still some areas that are more IT friendly than most.
A decade ago people were talking about the death of distance, and how the internet would make physical geography irrelevant. This has not come to pass; there are still places around the world that are hubs of technology just as there are for air travel, product manufacturing or natural resource exploitation.
Read more...
16 ways IT can do less with less
From Computerworld, March 17, 2009...
Tough times call for tough measures. Layoffs and cutbacks are rampant. Even if your IT budget is relatively stable, you will probably be asked to do more with less.
But perhaps a better solution would be to do less with less -- to scale back on overallocated services, curtail unnecessary capital expenditures, and clean house of legacy apps and orphaned software. This may be your opportunity to show the organization how it can save money using open-source software, virtualization, cloud computing or SaaS.
Read more...
Tough times call for tough measures. Layoffs and cutbacks are rampant. Even if your IT budget is relatively stable, you will probably be asked to do more with less.
But perhaps a better solution would be to do less with less -- to scale back on overallocated services, curtail unnecessary capital expenditures, and clean house of legacy apps and orphaned software. This may be your opportunity to show the organization how it can save money using open-source software, virtualization, cloud computing or SaaS.
Read more...
Career Watch: Making up with the boss
From Computerworld, March 23, 2009...
Mark OGara, the vice president of infrastructure management at Highmark Inc. discusses dealing with the boss and users, and the best sectors in this economy.
Read more...
Mark OGara, the vice president of infrastructure management at Highmark Inc. discusses dealing with the boss and users, and the best sectors in this economy.
Read more...
Reader's Digest outsources to HCL
From Computerworld, March 23, 2009...
HCL Technologies Ltd. last week was awarded a $350 million (U.S.) outsourcing contract by The Reader's Digest Association Inc. in Pleasantville, N.Y.
Read more...
HCL Technologies Ltd. last week was awarded a $350 million (U.S.) outsourcing contract by The Reader's Digest Association Inc. in Pleasantville, N.Y.
Read more...
Editor's Note: Few of us are on safe ground these days
From Computerworld, March 23, 2009...
Last week, I was trying to imagine what it would be like to be an employee at Sun Microsystems. My entire world would be turned upside down by a Wall Street Journal report that IBM and Sun were in talks that could lead to IBM acquiring Sun for $6.5 billion. Neither company would comment on the story, and at this writing, it's yet to be confirmed. But my world would be upended nonetheless.
Read more...
Last week, I was trying to imagine what it would be like to be an employee at Sun Microsystems. My entire world would be turned upside down by a Wall Street Journal report that IBM and Sun were in talks that could lead to IBM acquiring Sun for $6.5 billion. Neither company would comment on the story, and at this writing, it's yet to be confirmed. But my world would be upended nonetheless.
Read more...
Make Your Workplace A Happy Place, Even Now
From Forbes, March 20, 2009...
These days it feels like we should be grateful just to be employed. But that doesn't mean it's always easy to go into the office--especially in the aftermath of layoffs and the midst of uncertainty. Peter Barron Stark and Jane Flaherty, the authors of several books about corporate leadership, have just written Engaged: How Leaders Build Organizations Where Employees Love to Come to Work. In it, they offer advice on how managers can get their staffers enthusiastic about being on the the job--and doing their best work.
Read more...
These days it feels like we should be grateful just to be employed. But that doesn't mean it's always easy to go into the office--especially in the aftermath of layoffs and the midst of uncertainty. Peter Barron Stark and Jane Flaherty, the authors of several books about corporate leadership, have just written Engaged: How Leaders Build Organizations Where Employees Love to Come to Work. In it, they offer advice on how managers can get their staffers enthusiastic about being on the the job--and doing their best work.
Read more...
Tech jobs disappear at AIG -- and across the U.S.
From Computerworld, March 20, 2009...
As American International Group Inc. (AIG) paid out huge bonuses to executives, the company also laid off six IT workers, according to reports in the local media.
Let's face it, a layoff of six tech workers -- even at government bailout king AIG -- doesn't normally get noticed outside of small media outlets like the Lubbock, Texas, newspaper that reported the layoff story. Or to paraphrase what Humphrey Bogart's Rick Blaine told Ingrid Bergman's Ilsa Lund in Casablanca, "It doesn't take much to see that the problems of three [in this case, six] little people don't amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world."
But the AIG layoffs serve as a reminder that IT workers nationally continue to see their jobs tank, according to data from the National Association of Computer Consultant Businesses, an Alexandria, Va.-based group that analyzes U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
IT employment in the U.S. fell by 17,000 jobs in February (download PDF), or less than a half a percent. That's an improvement over December, which saw a decline of 56,000 jobs, or 1.4%, and January, with job cuts of 46,000, or 1.15%.
Read more...
As American International Group Inc. (AIG) paid out huge bonuses to executives, the company also laid off six IT workers, according to reports in the local media.
Let's face it, a layoff of six tech workers -- even at government bailout king AIG -- doesn't normally get noticed outside of small media outlets like the Lubbock, Texas, newspaper that reported the layoff story. Or to paraphrase what Humphrey Bogart's Rick Blaine told Ingrid Bergman's Ilsa Lund in Casablanca, "It doesn't take much to see that the problems of three [in this case, six] little people don't amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world."
But the AIG layoffs serve as a reminder that IT workers nationally continue to see their jobs tank, according to data from the National Association of Computer Consultant Businesses, an Alexandria, Va.-based group that analyzes U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
IT employment in the U.S. fell by 17,000 jobs in February (download PDF), or less than a half a percent. That's an improvement over December, which saw a decline of 56,000 jobs, or 1.4%, and January, with job cuts of 46,000, or 1.15%.
Read more...
Some Reduce Severance, Others Add Benefits
From DICE, March 20, 2009...
Companies aren’t just downsizing the number of employees. Some intend to downsize severance packages as well. Hewitt Associates, a human resources consulting firm, surveyed about 228 large U.S. companies with 4.5 million workers in a range of industries, and found 43 percent of those planning severance changes expect to reduce cash payments, while 21 percent intend to trim other benefits. Says The Wall Street Journal:
Companies appear to be revisiting their severance packages more frequently in this downturn and making policies more formal. Typically, employers re-evaluate their severance practices just once every five years, says David Wise, a senior consultant at Hay Group. “It’s highly unusual for companies to revisit their severance programs regularly,” says Wise. “The fact that so many companies have considered changes over the last year is very significant.”
Read more...
Companies aren’t just downsizing the number of employees. Some intend to downsize severance packages as well. Hewitt Associates, a human resources consulting firm, surveyed about 228 large U.S. companies with 4.5 million workers in a range of industries, and found 43 percent of those planning severance changes expect to reduce cash payments, while 21 percent intend to trim other benefits. Says The Wall Street Journal:
Companies appear to be revisiting their severance packages more frequently in this downturn and making policies more formal. Typically, employers re-evaluate their severance practices just once every five years, says David Wise, a senior consultant at Hay Group. “It’s highly unusual for companies to revisit their severance programs regularly,” says Wise. “The fact that so many companies have considered changes over the last year is very significant.”
Read more...
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Don’t Be Denied Unemployment
From DICE, March 16, 2009...
As layoffs mount, more employers are protesting unemployment claims filed by ex-employees, according to The Washington Post. That’s because employers typically fund the state’s unemployment pool and each company’s rate is determined by its history.
After their unemployment benefits are denied, some workers are surprised to learn they weren’t really “laid off .” Instead they were reported as terminated for cause, like tardiness or poor performance. While workers have a chance to protest a denied claim, the process takes time and effort.
If the worse happens to you, make sure you’re prepared to validate your claim for unemployment benefits.
Read more...
As layoffs mount, more employers are protesting unemployment claims filed by ex-employees, according to The Washington Post. That’s because employers typically fund the state’s unemployment pool and each company’s rate is determined by its history.
After their unemployment benefits are denied, some workers are surprised to learn they weren’t really “laid off .” Instead they were reported as terminated for cause, like tardiness or poor performance. While workers have a chance to protest a denied claim, the process takes time and effort.
If the worse happens to you, make sure you’re prepared to validate your claim for unemployment benefits.
Read more...
IT skills shortage a chance for unemployed workers
From Computerworld, March 12, 2009...
The argument over the so-called IT skills shortage has two familiar sides: On one hand, employers say they can't find the skilled IT workers they need to fill jobs. Even today, in the midst of a worldwide economic recession that has left millions of U.S. workers without jobs, employers claim that they can't find people with the right skills.
On the other side of the debate, legions of qualified IT workers (CompTIA estimates that there are 12 million of them) wonder how such a skills shortage exists when so many of them are looking for a job.
Read more...
The argument over the so-called IT skills shortage has two familiar sides: On one hand, employers say they can't find the skilled IT workers they need to fill jobs. Even today, in the midst of a worldwide economic recession that has left millions of U.S. workers without jobs, employers claim that they can't find people with the right skills.
On the other side of the debate, legions of qualified IT workers (CompTIA estimates that there are 12 million of them) wonder how such a skills shortage exists when so many of them are looking for a job.
Read more...
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
New Local Market Reports
From DICE, March 11, 2009...
Though hit with layoffs, Dallas has pockets of IT demand in telecommunications, utilities, and manufacturing… Help desk, Java developers, SAP analysts still needed in Raleigh.
Read more...
Though hit with layoffs, Dallas has pockets of IT demand in telecommunications, utilities, and manufacturing… Help desk, Java developers, SAP analysts still needed in Raleigh.
Read more...
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Blogging Your Way Into A Job
From Forbes, March 10, 2009...
With competition so fierce for every open position these days, even the smallest edge can make the difference in landing you that interview or even a job. One way to gain an advantage: Start a blog about your profession or industry.
The concept is simple. Keep your blog entries short and conversational. Anywhere from a few brief sentences to about 500 words commenting on industry news or trends is enough. Post at least three or four times a week, more if you like.
Read more...
With competition so fierce for every open position these days, even the smallest edge can make the difference in landing you that interview or even a job. One way to gain an advantage: Start a blog about your profession or industry.
The concept is simple. Keep your blog entries short and conversational. Anywhere from a few brief sentences to about 500 words commenting on industry news or trends is enough. Post at least three or four times a week, more if you like.
Read more...
Hunting for a job during SXSW
From KXAN, March 10, 2009...
More than ever this year, one of Austin's biggest music, technology and film conferences is aligning itself as a job search headquarters in a down economy.
South By Southwest is known for introducing people to new ideas, music and film, but there are many things you can learn this year about your job search from people planning to attend.
"You have to think ahead," said Austin networking specialist and author Thom Singer . "Who is it that I want to meet? Do I know, firsthand, that somebody's going to be there? Maybe you follow them on Twitter , maybe you read their blog and you know, 'Hey maybe I want to meet this person.' Don't just leave it up to chance."
Singer is author of Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships and is hosting a "core conversation" at this year's conference called " The Conference Networking Catalyst ."
Read more...
More than ever this year, one of Austin's biggest music, technology and film conferences is aligning itself as a job search headquarters in a down economy.
South By Southwest is known for introducing people to new ideas, music and film, but there are many things you can learn this year about your job search from people planning to attend.
"You have to think ahead," said Austin networking specialist and author Thom Singer . "Who is it that I want to meet? Do I know, firsthand, that somebody's going to be there? Maybe you follow them on Twitter , maybe you read their blog and you know, 'Hey maybe I want to meet this person.' Don't just leave it up to chance."
Singer is author of Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships and is hosting a "core conversation" at this year's conference called " The Conference Networking Catalyst ."
Read more...
Tech Happy Hour Thursday
From Austin Startup, March 10, 2009...
Ticket sales will end Wednesday at 5pm, so order today and save yourself from paying $10 at the door. It’s going to be a fun event with everyone buzzing about SXSWi beginning the next day. You don’t need a badge to attend our event! You can use the order form below, or click here to register.
Read more...
Ticket sales will end Wednesday at 5pm, so order today and save yourself from paying $10 at the door. It’s going to be a fun event with everyone buzzing about SXSWi beginning the next day. You don’t need a badge to attend our event! You can use the order form below, or click here to register.
Read more...
'I'm Being Downsized?'
From Computerworld, March 10, 2009...
Many employees don't realize that industry downsizing will affect their jobs until it's too late. In this economy, you should be on the lookout for telltale signs. "Ask yourself if there have been layoffs, mergers or acquisitions in companies similar to yours," says Lynne Waymon, co-author of How to Fireproof Your Career: Survival Strategies for Volatile Times.
Read more...
Many employees don't realize that industry downsizing will affect their jobs until it's too late. In this economy, you should be on the lookout for telltale signs. "Ask yourself if there have been layoffs, mergers or acquisitions in companies similar to yours," says Lynne Waymon, co-author of How to Fireproof Your Career: Survival Strategies for Volatile Times.
Read more...
Monday, March 9, 2009
Many Say Contracts Aren’t So Easy to Get
From DICE, March 9, 2009...
Lately, a lot of recruiters have said their clients are seeking more contractors than permanent hires. So last week we polled Dice users to see if they’re are finding more contract work available. A majority of the 740 respondents are finding the market for contractors is tight. Here’s a breakdown:
Lately, a lot of recruiters have said their clients are seeking more contractors than permanent hires. So last week we polled Dice users to see if they’re are finding more contract work available. A majority of the 740 respondents are finding the market for contractors is tight. Here’s a breakdown:
- 67 percent are having trouble finding work as a contractor.
- 16 percent are finding contract work through recruiters and staffing agencies.
- 11 percent are finding contract work through their own networking circles.
Red Oxygen establishes American base in Austin
From Austin Business Journal, March 9, 2009...
Text messaging software creator Red Oxygen will establish its American headquarters in Austin, creating at least ten new jobs, according to information from the Austin Chamber of Commerce.
Australia-based Red Oxygen, which formed in 2001, provides products and services to customers in 26 countries worldwide. The company credits the explosion of text messaging communications for its rapid rise. While the average email is read in 48 hours, the average text is read in a matter of minutes, and that's causing a growing number of businesses to embrace texting as a method of reaching customers and clients, the company said.
Red Oxygen is opening a 2,000-square-foot office near downtown and plans to create 10 to 12 new jobs in the next few months. The average salary for these jobs will be $50,000.
Read more...
Text messaging software creator Red Oxygen will establish its American headquarters in Austin, creating at least ten new jobs, according to information from the Austin Chamber of Commerce.
Australia-based Red Oxygen, which formed in 2001, provides products and services to customers in 26 countries worldwide. The company credits the explosion of text messaging communications for its rapid rise. While the average email is read in 48 hours, the average text is read in a matter of minutes, and that's causing a growing number of businesses to embrace texting as a method of reaching customers and clients, the company said.
Red Oxygen is opening a 2,000-square-foot office near downtown and plans to create 10 to 12 new jobs in the next few months. The average salary for these jobs will be $50,000.
Read more...
Don't shut foreign tech workers out
From Fortune, March 4, 2009...
The recession's damage to Silicon Valley goes beyond falling stock prices and depressed profits.
The downturn has renewed attempts to restrict visas for skilled immigrants. If anything, the U.S. should consider slackening its rules instead.
Granting more visas for high-tech immigrant workers, known as H-1Bs, was a hot topic before the economy went into reverse. Now they're perfect political toast.
Read more...
The recession's damage to Silicon Valley goes beyond falling stock prices and depressed profits.
The downturn has renewed attempts to restrict visas for skilled immigrants. If anything, the U.S. should consider slackening its rules instead.
Granting more visas for high-tech immigrant workers, known as H-1Bs, was a hot topic before the economy went into reverse. Now they're perfect political toast.
Read more...
Your Greatest Weakness? Another View
From DICE, March 6, 2009...
Our contributor Calvin Sun saw Sonia’s item on answering interview questions about “your greatest weakness,” and sent us this:
What’s your greatest weakness?
This question poses as many pitfalls for the job seeker as “Does this dress make me look fat?” does for the man. Answered improperly, and your chances could vanish. Answered properly, and you might get that offer.
Answering honestly, e.g. “I get distracted easily” could hurt you by comparison with other candidates. Giving the “desirable weakness,” e.g., “I’m a perfectionist,” or “I’m impatient,” might have been effective years ago, but interviewers now are onto it. Avoiding the question, as I have done in the past, also might hurt you.
Read more...
Our contributor Calvin Sun saw Sonia’s item on answering interview questions about “your greatest weakness,” and sent us this:
What’s your greatest weakness?
This question poses as many pitfalls for the job seeker as “Does this dress make me look fat?” does for the man. Answered improperly, and your chances could vanish. Answered properly, and you might get that offer.
Answering honestly, e.g. “I get distracted easily” could hurt you by comparison with other candidates. Giving the “desirable weakness,” e.g., “I’m a perfectionist,” or “I’m impatient,” might have been effective years ago, but interviewers now are onto it. Avoiding the question, as I have done in the past, also might hurt you.
Read more...
For laid off workers, so hard to e-mail goodbye
From statesman, March 6, 2009...
As more people lose their jobs, we ask: What's appropriate to say in an e-mail as you depart?
Read more...
As more people lose their jobs, we ask: What's appropriate to say in an e-mail as you depart?
Read more...
Social media site unites job seekers
From KXAN, March 6, 2009...
A new social-networking site geared specifically to those who are unemployed is getting nearly 7,000 hits a day.
So far there are about 70 members of the Unemployed American website, launched about two months ago. The social networking site is not unlike a MySpace or Facebook page for those looking for work.
Read more...
A new social-networking site geared specifically to those who are unemployed is getting nearly 7,000 hits a day.
So far there are about 70 members of the Unemployed American website, launched about two months ago. The social networking site is not unlike a MySpace or Facebook page for those looking for work.
Read more...
Entrepreneurs optimistic about Austin's high-tech industry
From KVUE, March 4, 2009...
Once a year, high-tech entrepreneurs get together in Austin for a town hall meeting to discuss ideas impacting their industry and to brainstorm about ways to incubate success in Austin.
Wednesday night, dozens of high-tech entrepreneurs met at the Texas Medical Association building in downtown Austin for an event called "Rise Austin." It was sponsored in part by Tech Ranch, a local business helping high-tech entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground successfully.
Read more...
Once a year, high-tech entrepreneurs get together in Austin for a town hall meeting to discuss ideas impacting their industry and to brainstorm about ways to incubate success in Austin.
Wednesday night, dozens of high-tech entrepreneurs met at the Texas Medical Association building in downtown Austin for an event called "Rise Austin." It was sponsored in part by Tech Ranch, a local business helping high-tech entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground successfully.
Read more...
Anonymous at Work: When You Don't Want to Stand Out
From U.S. News, February 24, 2009...
Over at Chris Brogan’s blog today, I wrote a guest post on how you can avoid being anonymous at work. There are 10 things in my list, but I am sure there could be lots more.
This is an issue that divides. Some want to be anonymous at work, preferring to keep their heads down while they do good work and contribute as members of the team.
Others don’t. They want to be the best they can be--and they seek recognition, either from others or from their own internal self.
Read more...
Over at Chris Brogan’s blog today, I wrote a guest post on how you can avoid being anonymous at work. There are 10 things in my list, but I am sure there could be lots more.
This is an issue that divides. Some want to be anonymous at work, preferring to keep their heads down while they do good work and contribute as members of the team.
Others don’t. They want to be the best they can be--and they seek recognition, either from others or from their own internal self.
Read more...
How Bad is Tech Unemployment?
From Business Week, March 5, 2009...
Economists are predicting that when the government releases its report on Mar. 6, that payroll employment will have declined by the largest amount in 60 years. In an article published today in BusinessWeek, Brian Fabbri, chief economist for BNP Paribas told my colleague Peter Coy that he estimates the unemployment rate will hit 8% in February. “I’ve gone through a number of cycles as an economist on Wall Street, but this one’s different,” he said, adding, “This one’s scary different.”
That may be true for sectors such as retail, construction and finance but as of January 2009 technology sector jobs were faring better than they did after the dot com bust in 2001. “Then, the unemployment rate of tech workers was over 7% and now it’s at 4.8%,” says Tom Silver, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Dice.com, a technology job board. [Update: Unemployment is now at 8.1% for the general economy and 5.4% for tech professionals, according to a new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics released Mar. 6]
Read more...
Economists are predicting that when the government releases its report on Mar. 6, that payroll employment will have declined by the largest amount in 60 years. In an article published today in BusinessWeek, Brian Fabbri, chief economist for BNP Paribas told my colleague Peter Coy that he estimates the unemployment rate will hit 8% in February. “I’ve gone through a number of cycles as an economist on Wall Street, but this one’s different,” he said, adding, “This one’s scary different.”
That may be true for sectors such as retail, construction and finance but as of January 2009 technology sector jobs were faring better than they did after the dot com bust in 2001. “Then, the unemployment rate of tech workers was over 7% and now it’s at 4.8%,” says Tom Silver, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Dice.com, a technology job board. [Update: Unemployment is now at 8.1% for the general economy and 5.4% for tech professionals, according to a new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics released Mar. 6]
Read more...
Career Watch: Assessing the employment outlook for IT pros
From Computerworld, March 9, 2009...
The CEO of Beyond.com assesses employment prospects for IT professionals and offers advice for finding a job in the current economic climate.
Read more...
The CEO of Beyond.com assesses employment prospects for IT professionals and offers advice for finding a job in the current economic climate.
Read more...
Friday, March 6, 2009
Beat The Crowd At The Overcrowded Job Web Sites
From Forbes, March 6, 2009...
They're getting more applications per job opening than ever before. Here are ways to make your resume stand out.
Read more...
They're getting more applications per job opening than ever before. Here are ways to make your resume stand out.
Read more...
Most CIOs not planning IT layoffs, survey finds
From NetworkWorld, March 3, 2009...
While a number of IT suppliers are reporting layoffs, many technology buyers are hoping to avoid staff cuts.
According to survey results released Tuesday by Robert Half Technology, a majority of CIOs expect to maintain existing staff and some even plan to add staff during the second quarter.
Read more...
While a number of IT suppliers are reporting layoffs, many technology buyers are hoping to avoid staff cuts.
According to survey results released Tuesday by Robert Half Technology, a majority of CIOs expect to maintain existing staff and some even plan to add staff during the second quarter.
Read more...
Job Seekers Targeted By Identity Thieves
From InformationWeek, March 5, 2009...
Job seekers beware. Identity thieves are looking to steal personal information from those searching for employment.
Fake job ads are up 345% over the past three years, according to the U.K. Association for Payment Clearing Services, and the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) warns that would-be workers should be careful about providing personal information to purported employers.
The ITRC offers seven tips to help job seekers avoid being scammed:
Read more...
Job seekers beware. Identity thieves are looking to steal personal information from those searching for employment.
Fake job ads are up 345% over the past three years, according to the U.K. Association for Payment Clearing Services, and the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) warns that would-be workers should be careful about providing personal information to purported employers.
The ITRC offers seven tips to help job seekers avoid being scammed:
Read more...
Reid Hoffman Tells Charlie Rose: “Every Individual Is Now An Entrepreneur.”
From TechCrunch, March 5, 2009...
Reid Hoffman is an entrepreneur’s entrepreneur. He worked at Paypal, founded LinkedIn, and invested in dozens more. Last night, he appeared on Charlie Rose (full interview embedded above, full transcript below), where he talks about the rise of social networking in general, and LinkedIn’s success in particular (it is adding one million professionals every 17 days and is emerging as a “low cost provider of really good hiring services”).
Yesterday, Hoffman wrote a post for us with some concrete suggestions for a Stimulus 2.0 plan led by startups. He hit some of the same themes on Charlie Rose. The best part of the hour-long interview, however is towards the end where Hoffman discusses the role that entrepreneurship can play in getting America out of its rut. Some excerpts:
Read more...
Reid Hoffman is an entrepreneur’s entrepreneur. He worked at Paypal, founded LinkedIn, and invested in dozens more. Last night, he appeared on Charlie Rose (full interview embedded above, full transcript below), where he talks about the rise of social networking in general, and LinkedIn’s success in particular (it is adding one million professionals every 17 days and is emerging as a “low cost provider of really good hiring services”).
Yesterday, Hoffman wrote a post for us with some concrete suggestions for a Stimulus 2.0 plan led by startups. He hit some of the same themes on Charlie Rose. The best part of the hour-long interview, however is towards the end where Hoffman discusses the role that entrepreneurship can play in getting America out of its rut. Some excerpts:
Read more...
Stand Out with Hand-Written Thank Yous
From DICE, March 6, 2009...
An interesting tidbit in one of The Wall Street Journal’s “Laid off and Looking” columns: Kevin Hudson, who spent almost four years at ServiceMaster as an IT finance director, attended a program sponsored by the University of Chicago’s alumni club. One of the discussions focused on whether it’s better to e-mail or hand write a post-interview thank you note. The response from panelists?
The consensus was the latter as it is done so rarely today. While it may not guarantee getting the job, the personal touch could set you apart from the crowd and will be remembered.
This piqued my interest. Recently, I read Randy Pausch’s The Last Lecture. In Chapter 41, he talks about how thank-you notes “are best done the old fashion way, with pen and paper.”
Read more...
An interesting tidbit in one of The Wall Street Journal’s “Laid off and Looking” columns: Kevin Hudson, who spent almost four years at ServiceMaster as an IT finance director, attended a program sponsored by the University of Chicago’s alumni club. One of the discussions focused on whether it’s better to e-mail or hand write a post-interview thank you note. The response from panelists?
The consensus was the latter as it is done so rarely today. While it may not guarantee getting the job, the personal touch could set you apart from the crowd and will be remembered.
This piqued my interest. Recently, I read Randy Pausch’s The Last Lecture. In Chapter 41, he talks about how thank-you notes “are best done the old fashion way, with pen and paper.”
Read more...
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
How to Prep for an Interview
From DICE, March 4, 2009...
Companies often rely on behavioral interviewing techniques to determine if you’re the right candidate for the job. The idea isn’t just to figure out whether you fit into the company culture, also to see if you have the right skills for the work. That’s why many interviewers try to focus questions about what you’ve done in the past or when faced with certain situations. TechCareers says this is one of the reasons to build a reliable work reputation:
It is about far more than the amount of time that we spend in a position. What kind of work reputation have we been building in our career? What job experience do we have under our belts? And what have we learned from the mistakes that we’ve made along the way?
So how do you prepare?
Read more...
Companies often rely on behavioral interviewing techniques to determine if you’re the right candidate for the job. The idea isn’t just to figure out whether you fit into the company culture, also to see if you have the right skills for the work. That’s why many interviewers try to focus questions about what you’ve done in the past or when faced with certain situations. TechCareers says this is one of the reasons to build a reliable work reputation:
It is about far more than the amount of time that we spend in a position. What kind of work reputation have we been building in our career? What job experience do we have under our belts? And what have we learned from the mistakes that we’ve made along the way?
So how do you prepare?
Read more...
RISE Austin is This Week
From Austin Startup, February 26, 2009...
March 2-5th, 2009 is the annual RISE Austin event. RISE stands for Relationship and Information Series for Entrepreneurs. There are information sessions from such great Austin entrepreneurs as Nav Sooch, Clayton Christopher, Roy and Bertrand Sosa, and John Mackey. Not only is the event packed with incredible talent, it is also free!
Rather than create a packed ballroom style of event, RISE sessions are held in locations all over Austin. Not only can you find great sessions that are close to you, but since the event is distributed you will find smaller and more focused sessions where you can really interact with the speaker and your peers. You must register in advance to attend these sessions. For instance Melissa Anthony’s (of anthonyBarnum PR) session on Ultimate Media Training is already full.
Read more...
March 2-5th, 2009 is the annual RISE Austin event. RISE stands for Relationship and Information Series for Entrepreneurs. There are information sessions from such great Austin entrepreneurs as Nav Sooch, Clayton Christopher, Roy and Bertrand Sosa, and John Mackey. Not only is the event packed with incredible talent, it is also free!
Rather than create a packed ballroom style of event, RISE sessions are held in locations all over Austin. Not only can you find great sessions that are close to you, but since the event is distributed you will find smaller and more focused sessions where you can really interact with the speaker and your peers. You must register in advance to attend these sessions. For instance Melissa Anthony’s (of anthonyBarnum PR) session on Ultimate Media Training is already full.
Read more...
Government Resources for Entrepreneurs
From Businessweek, March 3, 2009...
Government resources for small business owners have long existed, but they are often poorly understood and underutilized. Several outreach efforts currently under way, some public and some privately funded, aim to change that.
One of the new programs is the community forum quietly opened last week by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Business Gateway Program. Hosted on Business.gov, the site is believed to be the first government-sponsored online community built specifically for small business owners, says Nancy Sternberg, program manger of the Business Gateway site.
It combines discussion threads, blogs, and resource articles and is designed to encourage interaction between business owners and government employees. A press release and formal launch of the community forum is in the works, she says. Her staff is working on getting the word out through social media such as Twitter and Facebook and notifying the 10,000 individuals who get regular e-mails when the Business.gov site is updated.
Read more...
Government resources for small business owners have long existed, but they are often poorly understood and underutilized. Several outreach efforts currently under way, some public and some privately funded, aim to change that.
One of the new programs is the community forum quietly opened last week by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Business Gateway Program. Hosted on Business.gov, the site is believed to be the first government-sponsored online community built specifically for small business owners, says Nancy Sternberg, program manger of the Business Gateway site.
It combines discussion threads, blogs, and resource articles and is designed to encourage interaction between business owners and government employees. A press release and formal launch of the community forum is in the works, she says. Her staff is working on getting the word out through social media such as Twitter and Facebook and notifying the 10,000 individuals who get regular e-mails when the Business.gov site is updated.
Read more...
How To Handle Being Laid Off
From NPR, March 3, 2009...
More and more Americans are trying to figure out how to manage on unemployment checks. What should you do if you find yourself without a job?
Read more... (listen)
More and more Americans are trying to figure out how to manage on unemployment checks. What should you do if you find yourself without a job?
Read more... (listen)
Spansion files for Ch. 11 bankruptcy protection
From Austin Business Journal, March 2, 2009...
One week after laying off 35 percent of its workers, including 164 in Austin, computer chipmaker Spansion Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Sunnyvale, Calif.-based Spansion (Nasdaq: SPSN), which operates a 1,000-person manufacturing plant in Austin, said it plans to restructure its debt and refocus on more profitable markets. Each of Spansion’s U.S. subsidiaries also filed Chapter 11 petitions, company officials said.
Read more...
One week after laying off 35 percent of its workers, including 164 in Austin, computer chipmaker Spansion Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Sunnyvale, Calif.-based Spansion (Nasdaq: SPSN), which operates a 1,000-person manufacturing plant in Austin, said it plans to restructure its debt and refocus on more profitable markets. Each of Spansion’s U.S. subsidiaries also filed Chapter 11 petitions, company officials said.
Read more...
Freescale Semiconductors to layoff 229 Austin workers
From KEYE, March 2, 2009...
A major high tech employer in the Austin area has announced how many local employees it will be laying off in May.
Freescale Semiconductor’s plan to restructure its three Austin facilities will cost 229 jobs.
Read more...
A major high tech employer in the Austin area has announced how many local employees it will be laying off in May.
Freescale Semiconductor’s plan to restructure its three Austin facilities will cost 229 jobs.
Read more...
An Insider's Guide To Finding All Those Stimulus Jobs
From Forbes, February 26, 2009...
You'll need to follow the money--and know a few tricks to get there ahead of everyone else.
Read more...
You'll need to follow the money--and know a few tricks to get there ahead of everyone else.
Read more...
Technology CFOs Choose U.S. as Future Outsourcing Location over China and India
From Business Wire, March 3, 2009...
This year, according to the annual survey by BDO Seidman, LLP, one of the nation’s leading accounting and consulting organizations, nearly two-thirds (62%) of chief financial officers (CFOs) at leading U.S. technology businesses say that their companies outsource services or manufacturing. However, the survey results point to a likely decline in international outsourcing in 2009: twenty-two percent say the United States is the outsourcing destination they are most likely to consider in 2009, compared to sixteen percent for China and thirteen percent for India. Another nineteen percent report no interest in additional outsourcing.
Read more...
This year, according to the annual survey by BDO Seidman, LLP, one of the nation’s leading accounting and consulting organizations, nearly two-thirds (62%) of chief financial officers (CFOs) at leading U.S. technology businesses say that their companies outsource services or manufacturing. However, the survey results point to a likely decline in international outsourcing in 2009: twenty-two percent say the United States is the outsourcing destination they are most likely to consider in 2009, compared to sixteen percent for China and thirteen percent for India. Another nineteen percent report no interest in additional outsourcing.
Read more...
Tough Times Call for New Entrepreneurship Efforts
From GigaOm, March 3, 2009...
Conventional wisdom says now is a great time to start a business, but the economic reality makes such a prospect a daunting one. Funding — be it in the form of credit-card debt, personal loans or venture capital — is scarce, and leaving any sort of steady job, especially one with benefits, is risky. But that won’t stop a true entrepreneur from going out there and creating something, which is why Alexander Muse of the Texas Startup Blog and David Cohen, a founder of TechStars, have launched SpringStage.
SpringStage is a program aimed at getting entrepreneurs connected through local blogs, happy hours, bar camps and other efforts designed to mimic the atmosphere for startups found in Silicon Valley. Someone interested in bringing the program to his or her city would apply to be a SpringStage “catalyst,” which includes access to IT and other SpringStage resources, as well as a monthly stipend to host events. Once a month, catalysts attend a conference call to talk about progress.
Read more...
Conventional wisdom says now is a great time to start a business, but the economic reality makes such a prospect a daunting one. Funding — be it in the form of credit-card debt, personal loans or venture capital — is scarce, and leaving any sort of steady job, especially one with benefits, is risky. But that won’t stop a true entrepreneur from going out there and creating something, which is why Alexander Muse of the Texas Startup Blog and David Cohen, a founder of TechStars, have launched SpringStage.
SpringStage is a program aimed at getting entrepreneurs connected through local blogs, happy hours, bar camps and other efforts designed to mimic the atmosphere for startups found in Silicon Valley. Someone interested in bringing the program to his or her city would apply to be a SpringStage “catalyst,” which includes access to IT and other SpringStage resources, as well as a monthly stipend to host events. Once a month, catalysts attend a conference call to talk about progress.
Read more...
Hiring For IT Jobs Holds Up
From Information Week, March 3, 2009...
As waves of job losses cut across most U.S. industries, IT positions continue to represent a relatively safe haven, according to an IT hiring survey of nationwide CIOs released Tuesday.
The Robert Half Technology IT Hiring Index of 1,400 CIOs found that CIOs are planning a net 2% hiring increase in the next three months. The percentage was reached after 8% of the CIOs said they plan to add IT personnel in the next quarter and 6% said they anticipate cutting staff positions.
Read more...
As waves of job losses cut across most U.S. industries, IT positions continue to represent a relatively safe haven, according to an IT hiring survey of nationwide CIOs released Tuesday.
The Robert Half Technology IT Hiring Index of 1,400 CIOs found that CIOs are planning a net 2% hiring increase in the next three months. The percentage was reached after 8% of the CIOs said they plan to add IT personnel in the next quarter and 6% said they anticipate cutting staff positions.
Read more...
Monday, March 2, 2009
Freescale Semiconductors to layoff 229 Austin workers
From KEYE, March 2, 2009...
A major high tech employer in the Austin area has announced how many local employees it will be laying off in May.
Freescale Semiconductor’s plan to restructure its three Austin facilities will cost 229 jobs.
Read more...
A major high tech employer in the Austin area has announced how many local employees it will be laying off in May.
Freescale Semiconductor’s plan to restructure its three Austin facilities will cost 229 jobs.
Read more...
What’s Behind Healthcare IT’s Rise
From DICE, March 2, 2009...
I have to admit that reading about the digitization of medical records doesn’t exactly get my pulse racing, but perhaps we should all be paying a bit more attention now that $19 billion or so of government money is targeted for the EHR (electronic health records) effort. IT Career Planet has checked in with Christine Chang, healthcare technologies analyst at Datamonitor, and has found out quite a few interesting facts.
"EHR is the main focus of the Obama stimulus for healthcare IT, but its just the tip of a much bigger surge of systems integration.
There are currently hundreds of companies vying for market share, some are start-ups; others are more established players in the healthcare IT market."
Read more...
I have to admit that reading about the digitization of medical records doesn’t exactly get my pulse racing, but perhaps we should all be paying a bit more attention now that $19 billion or so of government money is targeted for the EHR (electronic health records) effort. IT Career Planet has checked in with Christine Chang, healthcare technologies analyst at Datamonitor, and has found out quite a few interesting facts.
"EHR is the main focus of the Obama stimulus for healthcare IT, but its just the tip of a much bigger surge of systems integration.
There are currently hundreds of companies vying for market share, some are start-ups; others are more established players in the healthcare IT market."
Read more...
Top 10 Tech Companies That Pay Engineers The Most
From GigaOm, March 1, 2009...
Sure, hiring is going to slow down — even at large companies — but engineers are almost always in demand.
Read more...
Sure, hiring is going to slow down — even at large companies — but engineers are almost always in demand.
Read more...
Career advice: Making amends with the boss
From Computerworld, March 2, 2009...
A Computerworld Premier 100 IT leader has advice on how to make things right with an offended boss.
Read more...
A Computerworld Premier 100 IT leader has advice on how to make things right with an offended boss.
Read more...
Gartner: Computer industry in for dismal '09
From Austin Business Journal, March 2, 2009...
The personal computer industry will see its sharpest unit decline in history this year, with shipments falling 11.9 percent to 257 million units, according to Gartner Inc.
The latest report from Stamford, Conn.-based Gartner shows worldwide shipments of laptops and other mobile PCs are expected to increase 9 percent to 155 million units, buoyed by growing demand for mini-notebooks. But desktop units are anticipated to plummet a whopping 32 percent to 101.4 million units.
The largest previous year-over-year decline in PC shipments happened in 2001, when total units shipped fell 3.2 percent.
Read more...
The personal computer industry will see its sharpest unit decline in history this year, with shipments falling 11.9 percent to 257 million units, according to Gartner Inc.
The latest report from Stamford, Conn.-based Gartner shows worldwide shipments of laptops and other mobile PCs are expected to increase 9 percent to 155 million units, buoyed by growing demand for mini-notebooks. But desktop units are anticipated to plummet a whopping 32 percent to 101.4 million units.
The largest previous year-over-year decline in PC shipments happened in 2001, when total units shipped fell 3.2 percent.
Read more...
5 recession survival skills
From Computerworld, March 1, 2009...
It's a scary new world, but IT leaders who adjust can still prosper.
Read more...
It's a scary new world, but IT leaders who adjust can still prosper.
Read more...
Career Watch: Keeping your job when all around you are losing theirs
From Computerworld, March 2, 2009...
The co-founder and principal of IT staffing and consulting firm Bluewolf Inc. talks about keeping a job and finding another in the current economic climate.
Q. With the economy in the doldrums, what can an IT professional do to stay employed?
A. First, they can keep their technology skills fresh and take advantage of training opportunities, such as free online courses and certifications. "Free" is important, though; this is no time to ask your employer for money.
Read more...
The co-founder and principal of IT staffing and consulting firm Bluewolf Inc. talks about keeping a job and finding another in the current economic climate.
Q. With the economy in the doldrums, what can an IT professional do to stay employed?
A. First, they can keep their technology skills fresh and take advantage of training opportunities, such as free online courses and certifications. "Free" is important, though; this is no time to ask your employer for money.
Read more...
Making your next move after a layoff
From Computerworld, March 2, 2009...
The newly unemployed can't afford to miss a beat. Yes, the economy has deteriorated. Yes, more layoffs are coming. Yes, it's harder to find a job now than it was a year ago.
But while some will react like deer in the headlights to being laid off, smart job seekers will get tough. They'll brush up their resumes, hit the job boards, work their social networks and polish their interview skills. I've put together five tips to help the jobless remain calm, collected and focused on finding the next opportunity.
Read more...
The newly unemployed can't afford to miss a beat. Yes, the economy has deteriorated. Yes, more layoffs are coming. Yes, it's harder to find a job now than it was a year ago.
But while some will react like deer in the headlights to being laid off, smart job seekers will get tough. They'll brush up their resumes, hit the job boards, work their social networks and polish their interview skills. I've put together five tips to help the jobless remain calm, collected and focused on finding the next opportunity.
Read more...
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