Use Your Communication Skills to Land a Great IT Job

While many in the information technology field may take offense at Ryan Tate’s March 2012 Gawker.com article, “The Tech Industry’s Asperger Problem: Affliction Or Insult?” which pokes fun at Mark Zuckerberg and others in the world of technology by inferring that they exhibit Asperger-like behavior, many outside the field might tend to agree. 


One of the most difficult issues that many tech employees have when looking for IT jobs is the ability to communicate with those outside their area of expertise. As writer and HR consultant Deborah S. Hildebrand suggests in her article, “Best Job Interview Tips for Information Technology Job Seekers,” IT job seekers can seem a bit like the brainiac character Sheldon Cooper on the sitcom “The Big Bang Theory.” 


Hildebrand offers these tips for IT job seekers to consider when looking for a new position. 

• Control your desire to pontificate. You know a lot and you want everyone else to know it or perhaps you can’t help but share. If this is the case, here are two suggestions. Contain yourself until you’re sure of the level of understanding of the other person and learn to adjust your communication for those who lack a strong technology background.
• Don’t allow your spotlight to shine too brightly. While it is important to make sure you stand out for your accomplishments, don’t forget you are not alone. Be sure to speak about team projects and achievements as well.
• Seek more information. While you’re busy sharing the stage with team mates, don’t forget to share it with the interviewer. Allow the recruiter or hiring manager an opportunity to provide more information by asking questions. “Otherwise, they’re liable to think you lack curiosity or true interest in the job.”
• If you know it, show it. Be prepared to demonstrate your tech skills. Practice the night before by writing code and check out Codility.com for a sample test. 

Communication isn’t just about talking. It is about exchanging information. You can do that orally as well as in writing. IT job seekers need to be able to demonstrate both. As Hildebrand writes, “No one knows better than you what you are capable of doing. Learn how to communicate properly before your next job interview.”

For more information on conducting a job search or for help finding the right IT opportunity for you, contact us.