Professional Development Opportunities IT Professionals Should Be Taking This Year

January 14, 2022

As an IT professional, your skills are in extremely high demand. As the job market has become more competitive for employers, qualified candidates are in the unique position of being able to apply for – and accept – offers they had only dreamed of just a few years ago.

2022 can be the year that you truly level up your technology career by making some key investments in yourself. The opportunity for advancement is ripe for the picking – here are some tips from the hiring professionals at Pinnacle.

1. Grow Your Network

Ask any seasoned professional in the corporate landscape about the main drivers of their success, and the majority will mention networking. Over the course of your career, the professionals you network with now will go on to be leaders and executives, and leveraging those connections can pay dividends for your career.

One of the most important investments you can make in your tech career this year is to make a concerted effort to grow and maintain your network. Reach out to other technology professionals, both within your firm and beyond, and ask to meet for brief chats to discuss workflow, strategy, and generalized career advice. Try not to make an impression as a ladder-climber, but simply a curious and friendly professional looking for industry insight. Establishing regular catch-ups with existing contacts is a great way to stay on top of your network as well.

2. Learn New IT Skills

The utility and value you have as an IT professional is largely influenced by the skills and experience you bring to the table. By investing in growing your knowledge base, you open yourself up to more potential opportunities and increase your earning potential.

When it comes to learning new skills, there are a plethora of options available. Various online learning centers such as Coursera, Global Knowledge, and LinkedIn Learning offer online courses in key subjects such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, software development, programming, and more. As well as helping you become a more resourceful and useful professional, these experiences are excellent additions to your resume.

3. Get Certified

Signs of legitimacy can go a long way when it comes to navigating the hiring market. Earning an IT certification can increase your earning potential significantly by signaling to employers that you are capable of managing a team or leading a complex project. Just like earning an MBA or a PhD, an IT certification is a clear sign of your dedication. Earning a diploma communicates a time and financial investment in your success and personal growth.

4. Team Up with a Recruitment Professional

One of the most critical mistakes you can make in your IT career is attempting to do it alone. In addition to building your network, you can leverage the collective network of professionals who have been placing top industry candidates in key roles for years. Working with a recruiter to help you navigate your search, or even begin a passive search while maintaining your current role, is an excellent step in your career. The right recruitment professional can help guide you on resume-building, goal-setting, and the application process. Find the right IT recruitment teammate, and watch your career blossom.

Pinnacle – Your Job Search Partner

We spent the past 10 years becoming specialists on the hiring market to help make your search easier. We have placed top technology candidates in roles that leverage their strengths at premier firms. Our professionals promise to prioritize your needs during the hiring process. We focus on sourcing only the best opportunities that represent a well-tailored cultural fit for our clients. Our team aims to place you in a role where you can make a positive impact. Let our recruiters simplify the process and help you strive towards your career goals. To learn more, please contact us at 412-343-6300 or visit our website today.

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