It is no exaggeration to say the information technology (IT) industry is essential to how modern businesses operate and how people connect in the digital era. Companies and professionals within this broad and complex sector develop, manage and secure the technology that powers global communication and connectivity. Firms that provide products and services in software development, networking, data analytics, systems integration, security, IT consulting and more all fall under the IT industry’s umbrella.Organizations in every major sector, from financial services to healthcare, seek out skilled IT professionals to develop secure infrastructure, manage data, enhance cybersecurity and automate processes. As a result, IT businesses and technology firms can be up against tough competition for experienced and specialized technology professionals in today’s job market. And just as IT jobs aren’t confined to the IT industry, the industry itself doesn’t run solely on technology roles.In addition to technologists, IT companies themselves depend on a wide range of skilled talent—including finance and accounting, human resources (HR), legal, marketing and creative, and administrative and customer support professionals to enable business growth and everyday operations. Many organizations also rely heavily on contract talent and consultants to help them deliver on their priorities and those of their clients.
Advancements in AI and machine learning, cloud technologies, and cybersecurity—and companies’ strategic investments in these areas—are fueling demand for IT jobs inside and outside of the IT industry. Analyst firm Gartner projects worldwide IT spending will hit $5.74 trillion in 2025, an increase of 9.3% from 2024. Software and IT services are expected to be key drivers of that growth, with significant spending on AI-related projects, including those related to generative AI.Overall employment in computer and information technology occupations—including software developers and security analysts—is poised to experience vigorous growth for the remainder of this decade and early into the 2030s based on employment projections from the BLS. In fact, it is expected to expand faster than the average for all occupations through 2033. The BLS estimates that the U.S. economy will see an impressive 356,700 openings for computer and IT jobs each year, on average, during this period due to business growth and the need to replace workers who leave their occupations permanently, such as for retirement.Looking at the near term, Robert Half’s workplace research sheds light on hiring trends within the IT industry for the second half of 2025. Sixty percent of hiring managers at technology companies report that their organizations are hiring for new permanent positions, while an additional 36% are recruiting talent for vacated positions. Among these managers, 72% said company growth and 57% said project-based or short-term needs are the top factors influencing hiring decisions.Other significant forces fueling hiring for both technology specialists and nontechnical experts across the IT industry, and elsewhere, include digital transformation, IT modernization projects and emerging technologies like AI and machine learning. Here’s a closer look at these trends and how they are creating talent demands.
The ongoing prioritization of digital transformation
Digital transformation involves the integration of digital tools and strategies to improve efficiency, enhance customer and employee experiences, and adapt to new business demands. These initiatives can be enterprise-wide, such as implementing AI-enabled ERP systems, or targeted upgrades like automating financial planning and analysis (FP&A) for a company’s finance teams.Regardless of the size or scope of a digital transformation initiative, companies across industries often rely on the products, services and expertise of IT and tech companies to help achieve their digital transformation and technology modernization goals. From cloud platforms and cybersecurity solutions to data analytics, AI and automation tools, technology is vital to modern business evolution.That said, bringing these complex technology tools and solutions to market demands support from both technical and nontechnical personnel. As demand for technology platforms, tools and services that power innovation grows, so does the need for both tech-savvy experts and strategic thinkers who can bridge the gap between innovation, impact and business development.Whether it’s software engineers developing cutting-edge solutions, project managers ensuring seamless implementation, finance teams managing budgets and tracking ROI, or marketing and customer support teams helping customers succeed, it takes a collaborative effort across IT and tech companies to successfully design, improve, market and deliver these technologies. Technology companies are hiring for professionals across these fields and more, which makes the IT industry an exciting career opportunity for people with diverse skills and backgrounds to contribute to meaningful innovation.
Overcoming recruiting challenges in the IT industry—tips for employers
The trends outlined in the previous section underscore why any company that needs to hire skilled IT professionals can expect to face tough competition in today’s labor market. Again, the hiring challenges for employers in the IT industry don’t stop with technical roles. IT companies also need to attract and retain high-performing professionals across other fields and departments to keep the business running optimally and contribute to advancing digital priorities. Here are some strategies to help employers stand out and secure the best available talent for both IT jobs and nontechnical roles:Flex where possible. Consider relaxing rigid requirements for certain positions and instead focus on identifying highly skilled candidates who can be trained and upskilled. This is especially helpful in a competitive market where in-demand skills for many key functions are scarce.Build a compelling employer brand. Many professionals today want to work for organizations with a purpose, a positive work environment and a demonstrated commitment to growth and development. To appeal to these candidates, IT industry employers should spotlight their organization’s culture, values and mission on their website, job postings and social channels.
Invest in professional development. In-demand professionals are often drawn to employers committed to investing in their people. Offering training, mentorship and support for certifications—both for IT staff and employees in nontechnical functions—can strengthen retention and expand an IT company’s internal talent pipeline.
Get creative with compensation and benefits. Offering competitive pay is a must, but flexible scheduling, wellness initiatives and generous time-off policies can provide a strong advantage in both hiring and attracting skilled talent. For many professionals today, benefits that support work-life balance are just as meaningful as salary.Work together with specialized recruiters. Skilled recruiters with deep IT industry experience can help employers tap into hidden talent pools, move faster and make better hires. They can also help them keep a pulse on market trends so they can adapt their staffing strategies before competitors do. And top recruiters can assist IT industry employers with hiring skilled talent, including contract talent, for nontechnical jobs as well.In what areas are employers facing the most significant skills gaps in tech and IT this year? Read Robert Half’s report, Building Future-Forward Tech Teams, to find out.
How technical and nontechnical job seekers can stand out to employers in the IT industry
This is an ideal time for skilled professionals to pursue opportunities in the IT industry, whether they’re targeting IT jobs or nontechnical roles that support and advance technology companies. As technology continues to reshape the way people live and work, employers in the IT sector are seeking professionals with the skills, mindset and curiosity to help drive innovation and growth.Whether a candidate is a cybersecurity professional, business analyst, project manager, marketing strategist or finance specialist looking to join a dynamic IT company, the potential for rewarding work, competitive compensation and involvement in transformative projects is significant. Of course, competition for top roles can be fierce, whether a job seeker is aiming to join a tech startup or an industry giant. Here are some tips for boosting marketability and standing out to hiring managers:Embrace new skills and technologies. IT professionals can strengthen their resumes by staying current with the latest tools and frameworks. Meanwhile, nontechnical candidates should build familiarity with the latest technology tools and platforms used in their own fields, as well as those critical to IT businesses, generally, to demonstrate digital savvy. Many employers in the IT industry actively seek professionals who show initiative and a commitment to lifelong learning.Earn in-demand certifications. For technical candidates, IT certifications in areas like cybersecurity, cloud development or networking can provide a decisive advantage when competing for IT jobs—and may also help position them for higher compensation. Nontechnical candidates, in addition to pursuing certifications valued in their profession, may benefit from earning credentials in project management, change management or even programming, as it signals their readiness to contribute more broadly within an IT business.
Prioritize professional networking. Don’t underestimate the power of human connection—even in a digitally driven industry like IT. Attending industry events, participating in online communities and building a presence on LinkedIn can help candidates discover opportunities that might not appear on traditional job boards. Working with a specialized recruiter with experience and connections in the IT industry can also provide valuable market insights and open doors to hard-to-find roles in IT and other critical functions.
Check out these do’s, don’ts and insider tips for professional networking.
Stay on top of hiring and salary trends for IT jobs and more
Access the Salary GuideThe IT industry offers dynamic career paths for professionals with technological experience and an innovative mindset who want to help drive the digital revolution, as well as those interested in nontechnical roles to help IT businesses compete, grow and thrive. For insight into compensation trends for technical and nontechnical positions in the IT industry and other sectors, employers and job seekers can consult Robert Half’s Salary Guide. The guide includes average starting salaries for a broad range of roles across professional fields, from technology to legal to finance and accounting.
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