How Smaller Businesses Can Attract Quality IT Talent

Many companies experience difficulty attracting qualified information technology candidates. Specifically, smaller businesses face even more of a challenge. A rapid growth in the technology space has led to incredible value for even the smallest of businesses to invest in IT software and processes. In turn, IT talent has become increasingly in demand. From offering sky-high salaries and generous benefits, businesses are pulling out all of the stops to try to attract technology talent.

So what can small businesses do to beat their bigger competition for this niche pool?

Look internally and locally. While not all businesses have a robust IT department, it may be worth identifying any talent already in the company who would be able to step up. In addition, hiring from within cuts down on expenses related to training a new employee on business processes. Try partnering with local schools or programs to attract computer science majors, offering an exciting opportunity before the future candidate hits the open job market.

If your recruitment team has identified external candidates, its important to make quick decisions. Do not leave candidates dangling, he or she knows the demand for their skill set. IT candidates likely already have other offers and any delays give other companies an opportunity make the first move. High level professionals wont often sit around waiting for a decision.

Also, think outside of the box when attempting to attract IT candidates. While salary is important, smaller businesses can compete by marketing the opportunity for development and training. Tech talent values a work/life balance, and the flexibility to work remotely if needed. Perhaps offer to pay for a certification of interest to the candidate, as IT professionals also value the opportunity to work on exciting projects and have meanin

gful and purposeful work. Its crucial to focus on where the company is headed, and what future investments in technology are coming. What’s the 3 year plan?

Small businesses must play to their strengths to attract and retain Information Technology candidates. What can you offer that is more valuable than the soaring salaries offered by large organizations? A work/life balance, ongoing training, and true feeling of value to the company may set you apart when recruiting IT talent.