Tag: On-Demand IT

In the digital age, cyber security is a critical aspect of any organization's infrastructure. A cyber security analyst plays a pivotal role in safeguarding information systems by monitoring, detecting, investigating, analyzing, and responding to security events. Below, we explore the ins and outs of this dynamic profession. How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst Becoming a cyber security analyst requires a mix of education, skills, and sometimes, certifications. A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is often the foundation. Gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level IT positions. Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, or CISSP can significantly enhance your employability. What Does a Cyber Security Analyst Do? Cyber security analysts protect IT infrastructure, edge devices, networks, and data from cyber-attacks. They monitor systems for unusual activities, implement security measures, conduct vulnerability assessments, and respond to breaches. Analysts also educate staff on security protocols and collaborate with other departments to establish company-wide best security practices. How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst in Australia The path in Australia mirrors the general approach but emphasizes local industry certifications, such as those from the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) and the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC). Networking and understanding Australian data protection laws will be beneficial. How Hard Is It to Be a Cyber Security Analyst? The difficulty is subjective and depends on one's affinity for continuous learning and problem-solving. Cyber security is a field that requires keeping up with rapidly evolving threats and technologies. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential. Can a Cyber Security Analyst Work from Home? Yes, many cyber security roles are conducive to remote work. However, this may depend on the organization's policies and the sensitivity of the information being handled. Can You Become a Cyber Security Analyst Without a Degree? It's possible, but challenging. Candidates without a degree must demonstrate significant hands-on experience, technical acumen, and possibly hold industry certifications to prove their expertise. Do Cyber Security Analysts Code? Some do, especially those involved in creating security software, simulations, or those who need to script their tools. However, not all cyber security analyst roles require coding skills. How Much Do Cyber Security Analysts Make? Salaries vary widely based on location, experience, and the specific sector within cybersecurity. According to various salary aggregation sites, the range can be quite broad, from $70,000 to over $120,000 annually. How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst with No Experience Start with self-study and certifications to build foundational knowledge. Consider roles like a security administrator or network engineer to gain relevant experience. Participate in security-related forums and contribute to open-source projects. Is Cyber Security Analyst a Good Career? Absolutely. It offers a challenging, rewarding, and often well-compensated career path with plenty of opportunities for advancement in a field that continues to grow in importance. Cyber security is a field with a critical role in the modern world, promising a rewarding career for those interested in protecting the digital frontier. With the right blend of skills, education, and passion, a career as a cyber security analyst can be highly fulfilling and lucrative.

In the contemporary business landscape, the role of a Power BI developer has become increasingly pivotal. As the world delves deeper into the realms of data-driven decision-making, these professionals stand at the forefront, transforming complex data into meaningful insights. This comprehensive guide delves into the essence of being a Power BI developer, catering particularly to the Australian market. We will also explore how Ignite, a premier IT recruitment agency, plays a crucial role in connecting talented Power BI developers with top-tier opportunities across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, and Perth. The Increasing Significance of Power BI Developers Power BI, a leading business intelligence tool from Microsoft, has revolutionized the way organizations analyze and interpret data. Power BI developers are the architects behind this transformation, wielding their expertise to create dynamic reports and dashboards. The surge in demand for these professionals is a testament to the critical role they play in leveraging data for strategic business decisions. What Does a Power BI Developer Do? A Power BI developer’s responsibilities are multifaceted, encompassing various domains of data management: Data Integration and Analysis: Merging data from disparate sources and analyzing it to uncover trends and patterns. Data Modeling and Transformation: Employing techniques like DAX to convert raw data into a structured, insightful format. Creating Dashboards and Reports: Designing interactive and user-friendly visualizations that succinctly convey complex data narratives. Key Skills and Qualifications To excel as a Power BI developer, certain skills are indispensable: Technical Proficiency: Knowledge in SQL, DAX, and familiarity with the Power BI platform. Analytical Thinking: The ability to interpret and analyze data effectively. Communication Skills: Presenting data insights in an understandable manner to various stakeholders. The Career Path of a Power BI Developer Choosing a career as a Power BI developer opens doors to numerous opportunities. It's a pathway filled with: Continual Learning: Staying abreast of the latest trends in data analytics and business intelligence. Diverse Industries: The skills of a Power BI developer are sought after in various sectors, from finance to healthcare. Career Advancement: The growing reliance on data analytics ensures a trajectory of professional growth. Ignite: Your Gateway to Power BI Developer Opportunities For those aspiring to become Power BI developers or businesses seeking these skills, Ignite stands as the go-to IT recruitment agency. Here’s what Ignite offers: Extensive Network: Access to a wide range of opportunities in the private and public sectors across major Australian cities. Expertise in Recruitment: Deep understanding of the IT landscape to match the right talent with the right opportunity. End-to-End Support: From refining your resume to preparing for interviews, Ignite is a comprehensive partner in your job search. The Demand in Various Sectors Power BI developers find opportunities across a spectrum of industries: Finance and Banking: For financial forecasting and risk analysis. Healthcare: In managing patient data and healthcare analytics. Retail: To analyze consumer behavior and optimize supply chains. Staying Ahead in the Power BI Development Game For aspiring Power BI developers, it’s crucial to: Keep Learning: Stay updated with the latest Power BI features and data analytics trends. Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills through practical projects and case studies. Network: Engage with the Power BI community and attend relevant workshops and seminars. Ignite’s Role in Shaping Careers and Businesses Ignite not only aids individuals in their career journey but also helps businesses in harnessing the power of data through skilled Power BI developers. With Ignite, businesses can: Transform Data Management: Leveraging expert skills to make more informed decisions. Gain Competitive Edge: Utilizing data insights to strategize and innovate. Efficiency and Growth: Improve operational efficiencies and drive business growth through effective data analysis. The journey to becoming a successful Power BI developer is both challenging and rewarding. In an environment where data is king, these professionals are invaluable assets to any organization. For individuals looking to embark on this path, and businesses eager to leverage these skills, Ignite stands as the ideal partner. Offering unmatched opportunities and support, Ignite is your gateway to success in the exciting world of Power BI development. A comprehensive guide that answers the most common queries. How to Become a Power BI Developer To become a Power BI developer, start with a strong foundation in data analysis and business intelligence concepts. Acquiring proficiency in Microsoft Power BI through online courses, certifications, and hands-on practice is essential. Enhance your skills by learning data modeling, DAX, and SQL, and stay abreast of the latest industry trends. Building a portfolio of projects can showcase your capabilities to potential employers. What Does a Power BI Developer Do? A Power BI developer designs, develops, and deploys business intelligence solutions. Their primary role is to convert data into interactive and insightful dashboards and reports using Power BI services. They collaborate with stakeholders to understand data analytics needs, ensure data accuracy, and provide data-driven recommendations to inform business strategies. What is a Power BI Developer? A Power BI developer is a professional skilled in the Microsoft Power BI suite, tasked with transforming data into actionable insights. They are responsible for the end-to-end process of data analysis, from sourcing and modeling data to creating dashboards that help in making informed decisions. Their expertise helps uncover trends, patterns, and insights that are vital for business growth. Does Power BI Developer Require Coding? While not primarily a coding role, Power BI development does benefit from knowledge of programming. Familiarity with data analysis expressions (DAX) for creating custom calculations and understanding SQL for querying data can enhance a developer’s efficiency. However, Power BI also offers a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop features that reduce the coding requirements. How Much Do Power BI Developers Make? The salary of a Power BI developer can vary widely based on location, experience, and the complexity of projects handled. On average, entry-level positions start from a competitive base, with the potential to grow as one gains expertise and takes on more complex projects. Senior Power BI developers or consultants with a robust portfolio can command higher salaries, reflective of their impact on business intelligence strategies.

Leif King, the Client Engagement Manager at Ignite with over 20 years of expansive experience, is a seasoned tech specialist. His journey began in the technical trenches, evolving into leadership roles that leveraged his growing expertise in client engagement, delivery, program, and project management, a narrative further honed through his tenure at reputable organizations, including Volkswagen Group, Adcorp Group, Knauf, and Fosters Group. At Volkswagen, his involvement in digital and data initiatives honed his perspective on technology's role in large corporations. His stint at Adcorp broadened his professional horizon in tech services, aligning tech solutions with client objectives. At Knauf, a global leader in building materials, he juggled operations and significant projects, streamlined processes, and enhanced technological efficiencies. His role at Fosters Group refined his acumen in balancing operational tasks with project management, ensuring seamless transitions and successful project completions. Transitioning into a pivotal role at Ignite, Leif emerged as a torchbearer for the On-Demand IT Services model. This innovative approach, akin to having 'IT experts on call', allows businesses to access critical IT services and resources promptly, aligning Ignite's tech arsenal with client needs. Under his stewardship, clients experienced minimized operational hitches, reduced downtime, and smoother project executions. One of the hallmarks of Leif's approach is a client-centric mindset. He firmly believes that understanding client needs and challenges is paramount to project success. By ensuring tailor-made tech solutions, Leif has elevated client satisfaction rates, underscoring his commitment to delivering tailored solutions that drive project success. Leif King's two-decade odyssey in the tech realm, transitioning from hands-on roles to leadership positions and managing multi-million dollar portfolios, exemplifies a deep-seated understanding of technology, a client-first ethos, and a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. His journey, rich in learned lessons and impactful contributions, continues to inspire, with an unwavering focus on fostering client success and advancing technological innovation in his current role at Ignite.

In today's fast-paced digital era, having an agile and competent IT team is no longer a luxury; it's an imperative. However, finding the right IT talent that fits seamlessly into your organisation can be a complex task. Enter on-demand IT recruitment - a solution designed to meet the ever-evolving technological needs of businesses. For Australian companies in search of top-tier IT professionals, Ignite emerges as the beacon of hope. What is On-Demand IT Recruitment? On-demand IT recruitment addresses the immediate and specific needs of businesses by providing them with qualified and experienced IT professionals on a 'pay-per-use' basis. This means businesses only pay for the services they need when they need them, ensuring cost efficiencies, optimal IT function, and a reduced risk profile. This flexibility ensures that internal staff bandwidth remains free, allowing them to focus on core business objectives. Why Ignite is Your Go-To for On-Demand IT Recruitment 1. Nationwide Reach with Local Expertise: With nearly four decades in the industry, Ignite boasts a vast network of pre-qualified IT professionals. Their reach spans nationwide, ensuring that even regional and remote Australian areas benefit from unparalleled IT expertise. From deskside support to intricate Level 3 network and server engineering specialists, their portfolio of services ensures every technological nuance is covered. 2. Customised IT Solutions: Recognising the complexity and variety within the IT industry, Ignite offers a myriad of specialisations. These range from IT Project Management and Network Management Services to Infrastructure Upgrade Services and Software Rollouts. Their seasoned IT professionals not only ensure end-to-end solution engineering but also ensure these solutions are delivered on time and within budget. 3. Cost-Effective Model: Ignite's pay-per-use system ensures you get value for money. By only paying for the services you need when you need them, your organisation's financial and operational efficiency is enhanced. 4. A Testament to Excellence: Ignite's achievements speak volumes about their capability and commitment. Their nationwide desktop refresh for an Australian police department, on-site technical support for leading office product retailers, and national infrastructure support for top-tier system integrators bear testimony to their operational brilliance. The Ignite Advantage Ignite’s on-demand IT recruitment solution offers a multitude of benefits: 24-hour Central Contact Point: Ensuring round-the-clock support for your organisation. Extensive Network: With close to 8000 IT professionals available, there’s always someone ready to meet your needs. Decades of Experience: 40 years in the industry translates to unparalleled expertise and understanding of the IT recruitment landscape. Australia-wide Service: From the bustling streets of Sydneys to the serene landscapes of Tasmania, Ignite is everywhere you need them to be. No Retainers: Their pay-per-service model ensures there’s no need for costly retainer fees. Clientele of Repute: Ignite's impressive roster of clients includes some of Australia’s most prestigious names, underscoring their credibility and reliability. In conclusion, in an era marked by technological advancements, the right IT talent can catalyse an organisation's growth trajectory. On-demand IT recruitment, with its flexibility and adaptability, offers the perfect solution for businesses seeking to stay ahead of the curve. And when it comes to on-demand IT recruitment in Australia, Ignite stands unparalleled in its commitment to bridging the gap between businesses and IT talent. For businesses on the lookout for top-notch IT professionals or job seekers aiming to make a mark in the IT landscape, Ignite is the torchbearer of excellence, efficiency, and expertise.

In the modern digital age, the significance of seamless IT operations for businesses cannot be overstated. Any momentary hiccup, delay, or malfunction can adversely affect a company's reputation, customer experience, and profitability. This places immense pressure on businesses to have a robust IT backbone. Enter the concept of on-demand IT service—a solution that offers businesses the agility, efficiency, and expert services they need, exactly when they need it. What are On-Demand IT Services? On-demand IT services refer to a strategic model where businesses engage IT professionals based on their immediate needs. It's akin to having an elite IT team on standby, ready to address any technological challenge at a moment's notice. Why Choose On-Demand IT Services with Ignite? Ignite, with its deep roots in the Australian market, stands out as the ultimate solution for businesses seeking top-notch IT services. Here's what makes Ignite's offerings exceptional: Experienced and Pre-Qualified Professionals: Ignite boasts a vast network of almost 8,000 IT professionals, all pre-qualified, carrying the right set of tools, and honed with years of industry experience. Nationwide Reach: No matter where your business is located in Australia, be it urban centres, regional hubs, or remote areas, Ignite's expansive network ensures you're covered. Diverse IT Specialisations: Ignite isn’t just about numbers; it's about diversity in expertise. Their service range spans across: IT Project Management IT Field Project Services Network Management Solutions Architect Services Digital and Cloud Solutions Infrastructure Upgrade Services Software Rollouts and Upgrades Cost Efficiency: With a pay-per-use model, businesses only shell out for the services they actually utilise. This ensures a lean IT budget and optimum utilisation of resources. Round-the-Clock Availability: Ignite understands that IT challenges can arise anytime. With a 24-hour central contact point and support even during after-hours and weekends, they ensure your business faces minimal downtime. Ignite: A Reliable Partner for Job Seekers and Businesses Alike Ignite is not just about providing on-demand IT solutions. They have positioned themselves as a trusted platform for job seekers and businesses. For individuals with IT expertise seeking their next career move, Ignite is the place to be. For businesses, they offer a chance to tap into a rich reservoir of talent, bringing in fresh perspectives and skills. Proven Track Record Ignite's achievements in the Australian IT landscape are impressive: Nationwide desktop refresh for an Australian police department: A colossal project involving 13,500 EUC devices across 400 locations was executed seamlessly. Technical Support for Office Products Retailer: Ignite’s professionals were dispatched to offer top-tier technical support across multiple states. National Infrastructure Support: More than 100 IT operational staff were mobilised to offer support at multiple data centres across Australia. These successes underline Ignite's commitment to quality, timeliness, and customer satisfaction. In the ever-evolving technological landscape, having a reliable partner to navigate the intricacies of IT is invaluable. On-demand IT services, as offered by Ignite, empower businesses by providing them with unparalleled flexibility, cost-efficiency, and access to a diverse pool of talent. Whether you are a business looking to future-proof your operations or a job seeker aiming for growth, Ignite is your trusted partner in the journey. With almost 40 years of experience and a proven track record, Ignite's on-demand IT service is truly lighting the path for the Australian business community.

In today's fast-paced digital age, having a robust IT infrastructure is no longer optional for businesses—it's imperative. As technological demands grow, organisations require instant, flexible, and reliable IT support. This is where on-demand IT support steps in, filling the gaps, bridging skill shortages, and propelling businesses forward. Especially for Australian businesses, which operate in a vast landscape, this service becomes paramount. A forerunner in this arena, Ignite, has set the bar high for on-demand IT solutions, ensuring that businesses and job seekers alike have a reliable partner. What Is On-Demand IT Support? Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to grasp what on-demand IT support entails. Simply put, on-demand IT support provides businesses with immediate access to skilled IT professionals as and when needed. This can range from simple tasks like deskside support to complex assignments involving Level 3 network and server engineering. It's a flexible, pay-per-use service, meaning companies only pay for the IT services they use, optimising costs and reducing risks. Ignite: Leading the On-Demand IT Support Movement in Australia With nearly four decades under its belt, Ignite is no newcomer to the IT landscape. Their nationwide placement of experienced IT professionals, including in regional and remote parts of Australia, offers businesses a significant advantage. With such a vast, pre-qualified contractor network, organisations can be assured of the expertise and reliability they're getting. Ignite's Specialisations Include: IT Project Management: Overseeing IT projects and ensuring strategic service delivery. IT Field Project Services: Offering a national network of IT consultants ready to troubleshoot, handle rollouts, and audits. IT Network Management Services: Centralising, managing, and simplifying networks, including user administration and upgrades. IT Solutions Architect Services: Providing end-to-end solution engineering tailored to organisational needs. Digital and Cloud Solutions Services: Assisting with cloud migrations and IT system optimisations. IT Infrastructure Upgrade Services: Leading the way in SDWAN rollouts, NBN migrations, digital transformation, and more. IT Software Rollouts and Upgrade Services: Ensuring businesses stay updated with the latest software versions and IT tools. Moreover, businesses get more than just IT services with Ignite. They get a partner with: 24-hour central contact point: A lifeline for businesses. Almost 8000 IT professionals: A vast reservoir of talent at their disposal. 40 years of experience: Expertise that's hard to rival. Pay-per-service model: No hefty retainers; pay for what you use. Australia-wide service: Whether you're in bustling Sydney or remote Alice Springs, Ignite is there. Notable Achievements: Ignite's contribution to Australia's IT landscape is evident in their achievements. Their nationwide desktop refresh for an Australian police department involved managing the deployment of 13,500 EUC devices across 400 locations. They also provided on-site technical support for an office products retailer across various states, ensuring seamless operations. And for over 15 years, Ignite has been the trusted partner for national infrastructure support for a Tier-1 systems integrator, handling system server operations across multiple data centres in Australia. Ignite: The Go-to Place for Job Seekers and Businesses Apart from offering top-tier IT services, Ignite is also a hub for job seekers. Those looking for roles in IT can find a treasure trove of opportunities, ensuring their skills are well-utilised. Similarly, businesses on the lookout for talent can tap into Ignite's vast network, ensuring they have the right person for the job. In conclusion, as businesses in Australia and globally grapple with evolving technological demands, having a reliable on-demand IT support partner becomes indispensable. Ignite, with its extensive experience, wide network, and commitment to excellence, stands out as the beacon in this domain. Whether you're a business in need of top-notch IT solutions or a job seeker eager to make your mark in the IT world, Ignite is your go-to destination

When it comes to finding the right IT talent in Canberra, businesses often find themselves in a conundrum. Canberra, the capital city of Australia, has long been known for its vibrant IT sector and is home to some of the most renowned tech companies in the country. With such a bustling tech environment, the demand for IT professionals is perpetually high. Enter IT recruitment agencies in Canberra, the true unsung heroes of the tech industry. Understanding Canberra's IT Landscape Before diving into why Ignite holds one of the top position among recruitment agencies in Canberra, it's essential to understand the broader tech landscape of the region. Canberra's proximity to government agencies and universities makes it a hotspot for IT advancements. There's a continuous inflow of tech talent from the educational institutions, and government contracts often require top-tier IT professionals. The challenge? Matching the right talent with the right company. That's where recruitment agencies come into play. These agencies are the bridge between businesses looking for IT specialists and professionals seeking rewarding opportunities. Why Ignite? In a sea of IT recruitment agencies in Canberra, Ignite shines bright for several reasons: Deep Understanding of the IT Sector: Ignite isn't just another recruitment agency. Their team consists of professionals who have either worked in IT themselves or have years of experience recruiting for IT roles. This ensures that they understand the nuances and specific needs of both businesses and job seekers. Broad Network: Over the years, Ignite has built an expansive network, encompassing both emerging IT professionals and seasoned experts. This network ensures that businesses can find the right fit for their requirements in the shortest possible time. Personalized Approach: Unlike some recruitment agencies that treat recruitment as a numbers game, Ignite focuses on understanding the unique needs of each client and candidate. This approach ensures that every placement is a perfect fit, reducing employee turnover and increasing job satisfaction. Continuous Learning: The world of IT is continuously evolving. Ignite ensures that its team remains updated with the latest developments in the IT sector. This commitment to continuous learning makes sure they can match businesses with candidates that have the most relevant skill sets. The Role of IT Recruitment Agencies Now, one might wonder, why not hire in-house? Or use generic job portals? Here's the thing: the IT sector is unique. The roles are highly specialized, and the requirements can vary dramatically from one business to another. Recruitment agencies in Canberra, especially those focused on IT like Ignite, bring expertise that's hard to replicate. They: Save Time: Sifting through thousands of applications can be time-consuming. Agencies already have a curated list of professionals, speeding up the recruitment process. Ensure Quality: Every candidate recommended by top agencies like Ignite undergoes a rigorous screening process, ensuring that businesses only interact with the best. Provide Market Insights: Being in the recruitment business means these agencies have their finger on the pulse of the IT sector. They can offer valuable insights regarding market trends, salary benchmarks, and skill availability. In the ever-evolving world of IT, having the right talent can be the difference between success and stagnation. Recruitment agencies in Canberra play a pivotal role in ensuring that businesses find the professionals they need to drive growth. And among these agencies, Ignite has carved out a niche for itself, setting the gold standard in IT recruitment. If you're a business in Canberra, looking to expand your IT team, or a professional seeking the next big opportunity, it's time to light up your prospects with Ignite.

Commercial IT spend is on the rise as new technologies emerge, data consumption rises, infrastructure evolves, and core business offerings migrate online. In turn, this is affecting how businesses utilise and manage their IT resources, to ensure they deliver a valuable return on investment (ROI) for their business. Over the last decade, we’ve seen the proliferation of Managed Services Providers (MSP’s), enterprises that deliver their unique products and services to support and optimise the fundamental departments that underpin all businesses. This rise in popularity has changed the way companies approach their capital expenditure, looking to streamline costs and boost performance. For IT departments, this has resulted in more companies looking to replace or augment their existing in-house teams to better leverage the power of technology. Some may call this digital transformation, but we call it the rush to stay competitive in a forever changing world. In this blog, we discuss four key reasons why this is the CASE. Cost Efficiency Simply put, managing IT resources internally is expensive and takes up precious time. Not only do you have the rising expenses of buying and maintaining hardware and software, but you also have the hefty price tag of acquiring and retaining the right talent to manage them. All these activities take time, and add risk to a business’ bottom line. As organisations become increasingly reliant on technology, it becomes increasingly unrealistic to possess an in-house IT team capable of managing everything from infrastructure upgrades to software updates, and everything in between. By outsourcing to an MSP, you can remove a significant amount of these cost burdens by managing these processes remotely and only paying for the products and services that your business actually needs. Access to talent pools Ask any technology recruiter in Australia, and they will tell you the difficulty of sourcing top technology talent, let alone retaining them. Companies across all industries are competing for an increasingly finite resource, meaning finding the right talent to execute your IT strategies is a challenging proposition. One way to combat this shortage is to leverage the talent pool of an MSP. MSPs are experts in their specialist field (or fields), typically underpinned by high quality talent who can deliver their products and services on demand. This means by outsourcing your IT resources, you immediately gain access to hard-to-find personnel you may struggle to find on your own. Scalability Are you about to commence a new IT transformation project? Or about to go through a period of high seasonal demand? Your IT needs are constantly fluctuating, meaning you need to be equally as agile in how you address them. Internal IT teams will always have their strengths and weaknesses, unable to adapt to changing capacity requirements to accommodate your evolving needs. Conversely, MSPs provide you with access to the personnel, products and services you need when you need them, granting you extra flexibility if you need to scale up or down. Expertise Ultimately, you want what’s best for your business. You want access to the best products and services that can be delivered professionally to streamline your operations and boost your business. Outsourcing your IT resources is one way to achieve this because it enables you a superior breadth of expertise. MSPs can cover your skill gaps or add to your internal capabilities. From cyber-security to cloud migration, data analytics to network management, MSPs provide businesses with the technical capabilities you need to get the most out of your IT function. Technology is constantly evolving, as is the way companies manage and leverage its power to enhance their business. MSP’s are one available avenue for companies to save costs, access talent pools, increase scalability and add expertise to their IT function. Whether you choose this avenue or not, or adopt a blended approach, is up to you. At Ignite, our IT managed Services division On Demand can provide all your IT outsourcing needs and more to support your business and drive your strategic technology objectives.

On the one hand you’ve got what an organisation needs or wants their employees to do. On the other you’ve got what the employees are in fact capable of doing. Sometimes the two will align perfectly. At others time they won’t, forcing the organisation to track down workers who are capable of filling the gap. But what if such workers aren’t available? What exactly is the IT skills gap, and why does it exist? Moving swiftly from the hypothetical world to our real one, the situation described above is increasingly the case in the IT job market. IT is a field in which demand for specific and high-end skills is increasing at far beyond the rate that professionals are entering the space. In recent times, this has only accelerated with increased digitisation of industries, adoption of technology, shift to remote work, demand for data and rising cyber-crime faced by organisations.  This skills shortage creates issues for both employer and employee. Organisations lack the talent resources they need to grow, evolve and compete – according to PwC, 78% of Australian CEOs believe that the availability of key skills is a top threat to growth – while workers are handed tasks that are far beyond their pay grade, with job satisfaction and mental wellbeing affected as a result. While a lack of necessary talent is the major contributing factor to the IT skills gap, many organisations are also experiencing self-inflicted wounds. Many businesses are yet to experience the full impact of the skills gap, making it crucial they recognise the problem early and implement mitigation strategies in place to avoid it.  The expectation of the IT skills gap is that it’s out of control. Too much demand, not enough talent. However, the reality is that you have far more control over the situation than it may first appear.  Strategies to deal with or avoid the IT skills gap How can you avoid falling into the IT skills gap? There are a number of strategies that can help to either deal with or entirely avoid the issue – they simply demand resources and commitment. Understand your IT needs Understanding your IT needs can greatly reduce the impact of the IT skills gap on your organisation. If you know exactly what you need (personnel, infrastructure, software, etc.) now and into the future, you can streamline your overall IT spend and plug all gaps that may arise.  To do this, you need to ask the following questions: What degree of on-premise IT infrastructure do we actually require?  How much of our IT setup could be converted to technologies that relieve our team? Do we have any major IT projects coming up? Do we need to scale our IT workforce? What are key trends influencing IT usage moving forward?  By gaining a deeper understanding of your IT needs, and how technologies could reduce or remove the need for on-premise assistance, you can then work towards developing a strategic IT plan.  Make a strategic IT plan It’s quite surprising how many organisations still don’t have a strategic IT plan in place. An IT plan should outline your ongoing IT needs, and provide clarity on the skills and resources you need to fulfill them. Many organisations waste considerable time, money and effort on their IT function, because they haven’t put a strategic plan in place to guide their decision-making.  Bring clarity to your hiring processes Strategic plan in hand, focus your talent acquisition efforts on talent and skills that you actually need. Bring clarity to your hiring processes by creating clear job descriptions that offer a detailed (and ideally alluring) picture of what working at your company looks like. Remember, competition for talent is high, so you need to stand out by being clear about what the role actually entails. When skills gaps exist, building strong relationships with relevant candidates is invaluable to negating any future potential impact.  Once you make a hire, turn your focus to attention.  Offer appropriate reward An IT professional’s worth is determined by what the market is willing to pay. When skills are in short supply, and competitive intensity is high, the market is willing to pay more. This means, if you want top IT professionals, you need to be willing to pay a rate that reflects their scarcity. For example, software engineers, cloud architects and cyber-security talent are demanding larger pay packets than ever before.  However, for some companies, competing for talent solely on remuneration is simply not an option. In these cases, there is opportunity to offer non-financial rewards such as flexibility and career progression opportunities, which are increasingly valued by top IT candidates. . Upskill from within If you can’t buy talent, then why not build the talent you need. Many organisations already have great resources across their teams - it’s just a matter of identifying them and investing in them. Big banks, for example, are training thousands of their employees to use various IT softwares to boost their internal IT capabilities. Government agencies are pushing for less use of external IT contractors in favour of developing their internal workforce. While such initiatives are time consuming and expensive, they enable organisations to develop talent and skills tailored to their current and future IT needs. If they have their own exclusive supply of talent, then they are significantly more resilient to skills gaps.  Closing an ever-expanding gap The IT skills gap is an ever more pressing issue for organisations reliant on IT – i.e. all of them. However, like my doctor says, “prevention is far better than the cure”. This means, If organisations want to minimise the impacts of the IT skills gap, they can do so by utilising the strategies above. Essentially, this comes down to their willingness to invest time and resources now to secure greater long-term talent outcomes. This will simultaneously enhance satisfaction of current employees but also position yourself as an employer of choice for scarce talent in the process. Do it well, and the attraction of IT talent will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.   If you need help navigating the IT skills gap as a business? Get in touch with Ignite for a no-obligation chat to see if we can help.

An odd year has birthed an odd IT talent market - one with fewer candidates than usual and in which recruiting budgets are strained. Trying to rebound during what is now officially a recession, businesses find themselves in a difficult spot: they need to invest in recruiting that rare top talent, but may not have the resources to do so. With both the candidate count and recruiting resources low, the ability to efficiently and effectively attract IT talent has never been more valuable. So how do you go about doing just that? Today we’ll take a look at a few strategies that will not only help you attract the cream of the available IT crop, but perhaps a few drops of dairy that aren’t even looking for new opportunities. Invest in your internal tech Just as the first accountant to use a calculator was never going back to an office of abacuses, top tech talent won’t be keen to join a company that doesn’t invest in its internal technology. Adopting new and improved processes and technologies makes your employees’ jobs easier, while also making your business more efficient and competitive—a classic win-win. Turn employees into brand ambassadors With utilities like Glassdoor laying your workplace cards on the table, candidates now have more insight than ever into whether they’ll enjoy working within your four walls. Building a strong company culture and spreading the good word about it is therefore critical. Google is the oft-cited employer brand archetype. They offer great salaries, a transparent, strong and supportive culture, and cool benefits that’ll get employees talking - the ping pong tables, the in-house chef and the scooters in the hallway. Word of mouth remains the most effective form of marketing, so building a workplace that your workers will want to tell their networks about is amongst the most effective ways to attract top tech talent, particularly for hard-to-find IT talent in niche sub-sectors where everyone knows everyone. Find your unique What do you offer that your competitors don’t? Identifying your unique selling position (USP) is the key step in developing your employer brand, as it allows you to set yourself apart. Perhaps you offer particularly flexible work arrangements, unmatched autonomy, or the ability for employees to bring their pets to work. USP identified, your employee value proposition (EVP) should be built around it. This is the complete package that you offer your employees - the value they gain from you in exchange for the value you gain from them. Put your name up in lights “Did I mention I did some work for Canva?” “Yeah, I spent a few months at Slack.” There’s no two ways about it, some workplaces are more brag-about-able than others. While you might not necessarily be the disruptive upstart or the Fortune 500 company, there are still a myriad of ways that you can get people to both know and care who you are. Position yourself as a thought leader by publishing insightful articles on LinkedIn. Get involved in tech conferences and industry events, even if they’re currently remote or online. Better yet, host your own virtual or in-person meet-up, bringing together industry players and talent. At Ignite we recently hosted a virtual event focusing on women in tech, She’ll Have What He’s Having. UberEats was delivered to each of the attendees so they could have breakfast together. Unique events like these build your reputation while being fun, memorable and perfectly shareable. In short, you should do all that you can to establish your brand in the broader tech community. Be prepared to be flexible If a global pandemic has been good for anything, it has opened our collective eyes to the possibilities of remote work. In the tech sphere in particular working flexibility is no longer seen as a plus, but a must. The tech giants have been quick to extend their remote working arrangements long-term (e.g. Microsoft) or have even made the offering permanent (e.g. Atlassian). Not only does offering remote work enhance your EVP, it also grants you access to a veritable and borderless world of talent! Geography becomes less relevant in hiring when every candidate  is only a Zoom call away. Promote your career pathways According to this Linkedin study, 59% of candidates' primary motivator for a new role were career growth opportunities. Top talent is often characterised by an inherent interest in professional development; it’s no doubt how they became top talent in the first place. Furthermore, the technology sector is a highly dynamic environment requiring constant upskilling by talent to maintain relevant skill sets of value to employers. By showing that you’re prepared to nurture professional development and career pathways, whether through external or internal programs, you’ll be positioning yourself as an employer of choice. While 2020 continues to deliver its share of challenges, it’s also offering up a healthy dose of opportunity. Demand for data and strain on IT systems amid remote working has never been greater. Many technology companies find themselves in the same situation - in need of top talent, but seemingly lacking the resources to obtain it. Your ability to rise above the noise will determine your success next year and beyond. Securing the best workers needn’t be about spending big. Standing out from the crowd is often a matter of working smarter. With years of experience recruiting for the IT and digital spheres, we at Ignite are ready to help you do just that. Get in touch with the team today!

Nearly a quarter of Australian employers regularly use contractors to manage workloads and another 44% engage them for special projects. As organisations continue to reap the rewards of on-demand employment models – paying for resources only as needed and avoiding management obligations required with full-time staff – the use of contingent workers is increasing. But the benefits aren’t just for employers. If you’re not one of the 1 million Australian independent contractors partaking in the ever-increasing on-demand economy, you may want to reconsider, especially if you’re in IT. IT contract work is on the rise more so than with other disciplines. Imagine getting to choose when you’d like to work and the type of work you’d like to perform, and getting access to new and different environments and technology with every project. Add to that the reduction of some of the hassles that come with full time work – such as meetings and office politics – and the benefits of contract work just may outweigh those of a steady gig. Roubina Giragol is General Manager of Ignite On-Demand, the IT services division of the recruitment firm. The division provides IT solutions and skilled resources for short term, long term and project-specific work, either on a time-and-materials or fixed price basis across all IT sector clients. “There is so much freedom in contracting. You have the option of saying yes or no to a project and you can work ad hoc – 2 hours, 2 weeks or 2 months, etc. You can also supplement your income by working weekends, or before or after work,” she says. While greater numbers of IT professionals are choosing contract work long-term for the flexibility and to add more variety to their work, Giragol says it’s also a great short-term strategy. “Taking on project work is extremely beneficial for those who’ve just finished Uni or are new to the country and want to get a foot in the door,” she says. “They can build up their experience and make connections.” But with all the advantages of on-demand/contracting work often come some drawbacks, such as having to market yourself and managing the administration that comes with running your own business. While contractors who go-it-alone may struggle with these areas, Giragol says working through Ignite On-Demand will take away all those administrative headaches. “We have hundreds of clients who rely on us to provide pre-vetted, qualified contractors on short notice. This is all we do. We can keep contractors busy – they don’t have to worry about finding their next gig. They receive pay checks from us with Super and taxes paid.” Ignite On-Demand places all levels of support engineers for desktop-related projects, such as IMAC (install, move, add, change), as well as Wintel, server and network engineers. With client sites throughout Australia, contractors are placed in every corner of the country – cities, suburbs, small towns and remote areas. “We really care about our contractors – we want to see them happy and reaching their full potential,” says Giragol. “If that means providing them with as much variety as possible, we do that. If that means releasing them from their contract with us to work for a client full-time, we also do that.” Ready to experience the freedom, flexibility and variety offered by on-demand IT work? Email the Ignite On-Demand team at [email protected].