Houston CIO's Reveal Hiring Plans For First Half Of 2018

HOUSTON, Dec. 13, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Technology hiring in Houston should start strong in 2018, according to the Robert Half Technology IT Hiring Forecast and Local Trend Report. Nineteen percent of CIOs surveyed here said they plan to add full-time technology professionals to their teams in the first half of the new year. Another 63 percent expect to maintain staff levels by filling vacant roles. In addition to hiring plans, the report also highlights technology skills in demand and CIOs' top priorities for the first six months of the year.

"Houston has been experiencing a recovery period and businesses have been cautious with hiring plans," said Robert Vaughn, metro market manager for Robert Half Technology in Houston. "But as we head into 2018, we're seeing companies begin to move forward with mission-critical projects, creating demand for a variety of technology professionals. Many companies are focused on tightening security processes and upgrading systems to improve business efficiency and will be hiring professionals in these areas."

Hiring Challenges and Skills in Demand
It continues to be a competitive hiring environment: 61 percent of CIOs in Houston said that it's challenging to find skilled IT professionals in today's market. The skills in greatest demand within their organizations, according to respondents, include:  

1. Business Intelligence (49 percent)
2. Telecommunications support (49 percent)
3. Mobile development (48 percent)

Top Priorities 
When asked to name their top priority for the next six months, 29 percent of Houston CIOs said they will be focused on maintaining security of IT systems and safeguarding company information. Other priorities will include:  

• Upgrading existing systems for business efficiency (19 percent)
• Technology innovation and investing in new technologies (18 percent)
• Innovation and helping to grow their businesses (18 percent)
• Staff retention (16 percent)

About Robert Half Technology
With more than 100 locations worldwide, Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of technology professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems integration to network security and technical support. Robert Half Technology offers online job search services at roberthalf.com/technology. Visitors can also request a copy of the Robert Half Technology 2018 Salary Guide, which includes a wide range of IT job descriptions.

Survey Methodology
The survey was developed by Robert Half Technology and conducted by an independent research firm. To ensure that companies from all segments were represented in the study, the sample was stratified by number of employees. Robert Half Technology has been tracking IT hiring activity in the United States since 1995.

SOURCE Robert Half Technology

Related Links

http://roberthalf.com