{"id":1701,"date":"2011-09-16T08:35:27","date_gmt":"2011-09-16T13:35:27","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.ict-pulse.com\/?p=1701"},"modified":"2011-09-16T08:35:27","modified_gmt":"2011-09-16T13:35:27","slug":"6-keys-to-remain-competitive-in-a-slow-job-market","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ict-pulse.com\/2011\/09\/6-keys-to-remain-competitive-in-a-slow-job-market\/","title":{"rendered":"6 keys to remain competitive in a slow job market"},"content":{"rendered":"

Inspired by President Obama\u2019s jobs package for the US, the post provides some tips for persons to stay competitive in the tech\/ICT market.<\/em><\/p>\n

World economies are still in the throes of recovering from the Global Financial Crisis that emerged in the latter half of 2008. In the Caribbean, the situation has been particularly acute for us, as our markets are inextricably linked to the weak economies of our key trading partners countries, such as the US, Canada, UK, Europe and our sister Caribbean countries. As a result, governments and businesses have had to do more with less, which has meant that across most sectors, extensive layoffs have occurred and business expansion\/development has effectively ground to a halt.<\/p>\n

One of the hardest hit sectors is technology\/ICT. Thanks to technology, certain systems and efficiencies can be introduced, which allow now smaller (or even understaffed) organisations to continue to operate. However, like most industries, uncertainty over the recovery process has caused tech businesses to be conservative with hiring, at least into the foreseeable future. Hence those who are currently employed are often on tenterhooks about job security, and are finding their options for professional growth and development limited. On the other hand, those who are not currently employed are finding it difficult to get (or regain) a footing in the current market.<\/p>\n

What can be done in the interim? Clearly those who have a job are in a better position than those who do not. Nevertheless, the following tips should help you to position yourself to capitalise on opportunities that come your way.<\/p>\n

1. Continue to network.<\/strong> In an economic downturn, it is increasingly important to maintain and establish new contacts. There is stiffer competition for the few jobs available, but invariably, recruiters tend to prefer someone who has been referred, or has been recommended by persons they trust. Do seek out opportunities through which you can broaden your network of contacts. For example, consider<\/p>\n