The New Rules: 5 Ways IT Recruiting is Changing for Good

The IT landscape isn’t just evolving — it’s transforming at lightning speed. And with that comes a whole new playbook for attracting and keeping top tech talent. In 2024, five key trends have emerged, reflecting what candidates value now and the challenges companies are tackling in today’s hiring market. These trends aren’t just changing the game, they’re rewriting it — reshaping how companies build the talent pipelines they need for today and tomorrow.

1. Transparency is Non-Negotiable

Transparency in job descriptions is no longer a nice-to-have — it’s a must. Candidates expect clear information about pay, specific skills, and growth opportunities. And companies that provide it have a significant edge. With eight U.S. states and numerous cities enacting pay disclosure laws, transparency is quickly becoming a legal requirement and a federal mandate may be next. For companies hiring in a competitive market, this level of clarity can make or break their ability to attract top talent.

  three people sit across each other at a desk discussing paperwork

“99% of tech professionals are more likely to apply to companies that practice pay transparency.” —Onward Search

2. Diversity is Driving Results

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs aren’t just a box to check — they’re the key to driving innovation and real business impact. Companies with strong DEI programs aren’t just seeing better teamwork — they’re also outperforming financially. For candidates, diversity sends a clear message: this is a workplace that values fresh perspectives and creativity. As DEI continues to take center stage, hiring managers need to make it a priority if they want to stay competitive.

several people of differing ethnic backgrounds and genders sit around a desk in a work meeting“Diverse teams see a 12% increase in performance compared to non-diverse teams.” —Gartner

3. The Skills Race is On

The demand for skills like AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing is growing faster than ever, but here’s the challenge: tech skills now have a half-life of about 2.5 years. As technology evolves, niche skills become outdated just as quickly as they’re acquired, forcing companies to adapt. To stay competitive, hiring managers must focus on building teams with cutting-edge expertise while planning for constant upskilling to keep pace with the industry.

a man stands in a hallway of processing servers

“The half-life of tech skills is shrinking to just 2.5 years.” —IBM

4. Degrees Are Optional — Skills Aren’t. 

Degrees are no longer the gold standard in tech hiring. Companies are shifting their focus to certifications, hands-on experience, and the skills that actually get the job done. This change isn’t just expanding the talent pool — it’s breaking down barriers that have kept qualified candidates out. Nearly half of all tech job postings now skip degree requirements entirely, prioritizing the skills that matter most. For hiring managers, this shift is a game-changer, opening doors to build more diverse and skilled teams.

two individuals sit together analyzing data on a computer screen

“46% of tech job postings didn’t require a four-year degree in September 2024.” —CompTIA

5. Upskilling is the New Recruiting

With tech unemployment at a record low of 2.5%, relying on external hires just won’t cut it. That’s why companies are putting their energy into upskilling and reskilling their current teams, using training programs to close skill gaps from within. This approach doesn’t just solve short-term problems — it builds a stronger, more future-proof talent pipeline. For IT leaders, upskilling isn’t just about keeping up. It’s a smart investment in long-term growth.

two individuals sit at a desk examining many papers and several computer screens

“65% of organizations address skill gaps by upskilling or reskilling employees.” —Wiley University

Let’s Build Your Workforce for What’s Next

The trends reshaping tech hiring aren’t just challenges — they’re huge opportunities, and Per Scholas is here to help you make the most of them.

We’re all about closing skill gaps quickly with training programs built around today’s most in-demand tech areas like AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Whether you’re solving for right now or planning ahead, our instructor-led programs are designed to fit your company’s exact needs.

Upskilling and reskilling aren’t just buzzwords — they’re how you stay ahead. With tech unemployment at an all-time low, developing the talent you already have is a smart move. We help companies invest in their teams so they’re more agile, competitive, and ready for whatever comes next.

two diverse women stand together reviewing a computer screen

And diversity isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a business driver. We’re focused on building diverse talent pipelines that fuel innovation and performance while aligning with your company’s values. Stronger teams. Better results. It’s that simple.

Whether you’re a Fortune 500 leader or a scrappy startup, we’ve got you covered. Our solutions scale to meet your needs no matter the size or complexity of your workforce goals.

Let’s talk. Per Scholas is ready to help you future-proof your workforce and stay ahead of the trends reshaping tech hiring. The next era is here — let’s make sure you’re ready for it.

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Perscholas

Per Scholas

Per Scholas Enterprise Talent Solutions is unlocking potential by connecting organizations with highly-skilled technologists, ready to step-up and make an impact on day one. We partner together with businesses of all sizes to build sustainable, diverse tech talent pipelines, changing the face of tech, and increasing your bottom line through increased collaboration and innovation. Stop Buying Talent. Start Building It.

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