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How to become the IT contractor everyone needs

The 2016 research concluded that contractors skilled in Microsoft Azure were the hardest to source, with 23 per cent of Microsoft partners reporting problems in this area. This issue has arisen for two reasons, the first being that this is relatively new technology. The second is that Azure is now a central pillar of the Microsoft stack, so there is high demand to implement the technology.
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In 2016, leading Microsoft recruitment partner, Curo Talent conducted research across 120 Microsoft partners to learn about the greatest challenges they are facing. IT contractors can learn from data like this research and tailor their capabilities to meet industry demand. Contributor Greg Lombard, Dlivery Lead – Curo Talent.

The 2016 research concluded that contractors skilled in Microsoft Azure were the hardest to source, with 23 per cent of Microsoft partners reporting problems in this area. This issue has arisen for two reasons, the first being that this is relatively new technology. The second is that Azure is now a central pillar of the Microsoft stack, so there is high demand to implement the technology.

In fact, demand is so high that Alex Bennet of Firebrand Training stated in an article on Microsoft’s TechNet UK blog that 80 per cent of Microsoft customers had embraced the cloud. In addition, he explained that 66 per cent of Fortune 500 companies already relied on Azure to operate and he predicts that by 2020 the idea of a business without the cloud would be as rare as a business without the internet is now.

The move to the cloud and reliance on off-site data storage is driving demand for developers with new specialisms, particularly around implementing cloud solutions securely. Organisations such as banks and businesses handling sensitive information, need support to ensure data is not vulnerable to hackers and that their cloud systems are secure.

Supply and demand
IT contractors need to develop the necessary skills to fill gaps in the market. However, this doesn’t mean you need to become a Jack of all trades. In fact, this approach will work against you.

The IT contractors we work with at Curo Talent who have their pick of projects are the ones that have selected a niche and worked to be the best in this area. For example, anyone that has invested the time in becoming an Azure specialist is currently in a very strong position.

This not only involves honing your skillset, you also have to stay up-to-date with new trends in your area of specialism and adapt and evolve to remain current. This means you need to invest in continual professional development.

Find your focus
To anyone just starting out, I would make three suggestions. Start by getting a relevant qualification. However, don’t get too bogged down in selecting which school or whether you should be following a degree or vocational learning path. In the long run, this doesn’t have as big an impact on winning projects as you might think. The experience you build up after you’ve qualified is much more important.

Next you need to figure out what you want to specialise in. Make sure you understand the different requirements of infrastructure IT versus development and then choose a niche. It’s important to try a little of everything while you’re getting your qualifications or to take on more varied jobs when you start out. This will help you find your passion, and that is vital. The more excited you are by something the easier it will be to become the best.

Finally, don’t just focus on the computer screen. Take the time to develop your interpersonal skills too. Contractors with gravitas and the ability to easily communicate complicated aspects of a project to employers are worth their weight in gold and this will help you command respect in the industry. If you can do this, you’ll be able to build a strong reputation and will have your pick of opportunities. Just make sure you stay up-to-date on the next big trend.

www.curotalent.com.

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