Tag: IT careers

IT Careers: These Business Skills Become Priority Amidst Pandemic

Making it through uncertain and changing times requires companies to be nimble, act fast and keep a big-picture mentality. At the organisational level, that means implementing smarter resource management and allocation; cutting down fat and focusing on the most future-proof lines of business. Discover these business skills that become priority amidst pandemic.

Although it might seem counterintuitive to a business world that has grown accustomed to laying off personnel whenever there is a crisis. Doubling down on human capital is key to the success of this strategy.

Companies need the best talent when venturing into uncharted territory and, as we have discussed before, having a strong IT department is vital for the post-COVID enterprise. But what makes a strong IT department?

Business Skills: The importance of business acumen

Soft skills like communication and creativity have become a must-have for IT professionals. Now, InformationWeek’s analysis of a recent study by training firm Degreed suggests that IT pros should look to acquire business-related abilities as well.

According to Degreed, in the December-March period, the number of clients who searched for business-related trainings to upskill their workforce increased. On the other hand, queries for IT-specific trainings took a considerable dive.

The change of focus makes sense. As higher-level business and management skills can help a great deal in navigating change and identifying new opportunities. For IT professionals and technical profiles, making a lateral career move to become more business-savvy can prove very beneficial.

The most coveted business skills

Based on Degreed’s data, these are the business-related skills for which demand has increased the most since the start of the pandemic, from least to most:

Leadership

This one is a no-brainer. Now more than ever, senior IT experts must know how to effectively take the lead to ensure the proper innovations are implemented across the board. Team management, setting goals and tracking progress, spearheading interdepartmental cooperation. These skills often make the difference between an IT expert and an IT leader.

Compliance

What used to be something for lawyers to worry about is becoming part of everyone’s work life. Especially in areas like IT or marketing, where data privacy regulations keep getting stricter; there is a clear advantage to having specialists who know how to avoid legal minefields in their day-to-day.

In data science and analytics, for example, countless hours of legal review can be saved if those building the models know exactly what they can and cannot do.

Data analytics

Speak of the devil… as we have discussed above, not everything in data analysis is about data acumen. In fact, successful data analysts and scientists possess a combination of complementary skills. For technical profiles, being fluent in the business domain where they operate is key to delivering better and more actionable data insights.

Microsoft Power BI

One of the most prevalent and accessible data visualisation tools out there. Microsoft Power BI is a business intelligence platform that caters to business users. As an IT professional, knowing your way around MS Power BI will make you a great asset in today’s enterprise. There is always going to be someone in need of an expert to help them set up the environment, train end-users and troubleshoot.

Coaching

Helping others succeed should be every coach’s main goal. This is achieved through motivational support, understanding and the potentiation of individual and collective strengths. Being able to help in that regard makes for a great addition to the team.

In IT, the emergence of new standards of working and team organisation; like Agile or Scrum; is making the figure of the coach an even more important one.

Six Sigma

Devised by Motorola engineer Bill Smith in 1986, Six Sigma is a set of tools for process improvement. Its focus: to streamline business processes while minimising the probability of errors. Six Sigma is now standard for many companies, so it can be worth picking it up.

Change Management

As this whole crisis is demonstrating, managing change is no easy task. One of today’s most repeated business terms, change management refers to the series of processes involved in helping an organisation or industry transition to a new reality. Change management takes into account all stakeholders involved in and necessary for this transition; employing a mix of communication; training and restructuring to effect change.

Design Thinking

Based on how designers are taught to approach problems, design thinking is a way of looking at the world as much as it is a method for developing better and more efficient solutions. The strategy parts from putting oneself in the shoes of the end-user, designing the product for what it needs to be in addition to what we want to be. Clearly, a useful methodology when designing apps and platforms.

Looking for your next star hire or the next step in your career? Club Freelance is here to help you.

Don’t be shy, get in touch.

23rd June 2020
React.js Developer : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive React.js Dev job description to attract top talent.

In the field of web development, there is a diversity of jobs depending on the programming language or environment concerned web developer, full-stack developer, swift developer, node.js developer… The React.js Developer is among these different specializations.

React.js is a JavaScript code library used for creating user interfaces. React.js developers are mainly responsible for front-end web application development.

Discover the 10 of the Best SAP Experts in Germany to Follow Online

What is the role of a React.js Developer?

User interface development

Firstly, the main mission of the developer React.js lies in front-end development. Using the JavaScript library allows coders to quickly develop user interfaces. React.js is generally used for creating projects that require a certain aestheticism. Easier to read and write than PHP and offering good performance; React.js quickly won over the developers community and its adoption keeps on growing within the industry.

Unit testing

Further, performing unit tests makes it possible to verify that the developed application works perfectly and does not have any problem with its code linking.

In addition, it is a guarantee of quality that the developer must not neglect in their activities to perfectly meet the expectations of the client or project.

Writing technical documents

To avoid misunderstandings and to better cater to the end user’s needs, React.js developers may also be required to write technical documents.

Required skills of the React.js Developer

Mastery of languages

These developers must, of course, master the React environment.

For instance, being familiar with other languages such as HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript and a number of APIs… Technical tools and frameworks related to web development are also great complementary assets.

Curiosity

Moreover, the developer must be curious about the advances in web environments and cutting-edge technologies. In order to apply the latest innovations to the design of interfaces.

Adaptability

The web environment is constantly evolving with new tools and languages. This requires developers to be also able to easily adapt to the changing ecosystem to remain at the forefront of development.

Within the industry

React.js was created in 2013 by Facebook to manage the network’s news feed. Instagram, Netflix, Airbnb or even WhatsApp use this library.

React appeals to developers because of its quick interface creation capabilities and ease of use.

Salary of the React.js Developer

The average daily rate of a React.js Developer fluctuates between €350 and €500.

Training of the React.js Developer

To become a React.js Developer, it is recommended to follow a computer engineering training specializing in web development. More specifically in React.js

Discover all the web development programming skills and professions

18th June 2020
Creative Technologist : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Creative Technologist job description to attract top talent.

When it comes to creating new marketing strategies, brands know they need to invest in emerging technologies to stand out from the competition. They are therefore constantly looking for digital experiences combining emotion and innovation. Tt is in this kind of context indeed that they seek the help of a Creative Technologist.

The Creative Technologist plays a big role in the digitalisation of an agency or a brand. Their main mission is to help position brands through technology and innovation. It is a hybrid job requiring skills in technology, marketing and design.

Interested in exploring more roles within tech? Take a look at the role of the Salesforce Consultant

What is the role of a Creative Technologist?

Keep up with tech trends

The first mission of the Creative Technologist is to keep abreast of the latest technologies, trends and industry events. That is to say, everything a specialist in innovation should be aware of.

Understand the organisation and manage information

Moreover, they must have a good understanding of the company’s culture to be able to ensure proper distribution of information within the company and with the outside world.

They know how to manage a project internally as well as externally, ensuring that information always flows correctly between the different teams.

Invent, experiment and create prototypes

The Creative Technologist must also be able to deliver innovative ideas by going beyond traditional means. They must know how to design digital solutions and imagine how they could be used by the company.

After having experienced with a piece of software, an application or a service, they must make prototypes (demos) to present them internally or to their client.

Required skills

Communication skills

The Creative Technologist is in constant contact with the marketing department and teams of developers or creatives. They are also called upon to meet with multiple interlocutors during presentations, site visits and calls for tenders. Therefore, they must be able to introduce a technology or solution in an educational way and convince the audience of its advantages.

Ability to anticipate and estimate

The Creative Technologist must be able to estimate the costs generated by the digital products and uses they propose. Before the project materializes, they must anticipate all stages, from pre-production to daily operations, to identify any problems that may prevent the idea or project from working.

Strong technical background

The Creative Technologist must have very good knowledge of computer languages and software, as well as master digital communication techniques. They are often coders and computer scientists.

Within the industry

The profession of Creative Technologist is halfway between design and research and requires great versatility. Although Creative Technologists are still relatively few, their future is very promising in digital and general communication agencies. Their expertise is increasingly important to companies that need to be able to quickly respond to new and evolving consumer trends.

Salary

The average daily rate of a Creative Technologist is between €800 and €1,500.

Training

There is no specific training at this time for the role of Creative Technologist. The profession is accessible to IT professionals (project managers, developer, etc.) and communication professionals, requiring solid experience and strong technical and digital skills. However, a college degree is highly recommended. Advanced knowledge of UX (User Experience), ergonomics, information architecture, development, graphics, and marketing and communications are highly appreciated.

In terms of career development, there is no clear path: the Creative Technologist follows the evolution of market needs, the movement of technological innovations and current cultural trends while trying to anticipate the future.

Also discover the other Project Managements roles and career paths

28th May 2020
How to Find a Job in IT

Given how competitive today’s IT jobs market is, most of us can use a few pointers on how to find a job in IT.

But, first of all, let’s get something out of the way: the question of whether it is best to look for a job when employed than when unemployed.

There are many reasons why someone would think looking for a job while unemployed is harder. Hiring companies might be suspicious of your trajectory when you have been out of the game for a while. They could think you lack certain skills or drive; that there’s something missing from your profile that led to you being unemployed.

On the other hand, looking for a new job when you already have one shows ambition, nonconformity. It is proof that the IT talent market values you and gives you more leverage when negotiating your contract conditions.

Well – yes and no.

There are many good reasons for an IT professional to be out of work. You might be waiting for the perfect project, planning a change in direction. Or perhaps you simply wanted to take some time off after a few intense projects in a row. That’s especially true for freelancers, who often experience employment gaps in between projects.

These four simple steps can be of help to find a job in IT, whether you are employed or unemployed.

Develop a solid portfolio to find a job in IT while being unemployed

Chances are you already have a great deal of experience under your wing. You’ve worked for interesting companies, played a key role in noteworthy projects, helped bring to light successful products.

Beyond including all that experience in your CV, putting together a short portfolio can help potential employers get a better picture of your skills and strengths. It doesn’t need to be a portfolio as polished as. Let’s say, that of a designer or a graphic artist – a simple explanation of every one of your best projects will suffice. If you’re after a programming job, put together some of your best code.

Gather your references

Nothing validates your capabilities better than satisfied former employers. Instead of waiting for the hiring company to ask for your professional references, present them upfront. By doing so, you will be showing proactiveness, confidence in your professional profile. It will also help you stand out among other candidates.

A good letter of recommendation by an ex-colleague who is in a good position and/or company at the moment can be very helpful as well.

Keep on learning

This is something you should do even if you are not looking for a job at the moment. Since technology is continuously evolving, your success as an IT pro depends in great part on your ability to keep up with the most in-demand skills – both technical and other, softer skills.

Take advantage of the many free online IT courses out there. Develop new skills, challenge yourself. It will show employers you’re not just standing there, idle, that you are ambitious and in constant motion.

Find a job in IT by attending industry events

It’s true: the pandemic has put on halt most in-person industry events. However, and just like the rest of the business world, these get-togethers are adapting to the new reality.

Webinars, online Q&As… These events offer a great opportunity for you to gain visibility within the community, to talk or chat to potential employers and let them know you are looking to find a job in IT. It’s always easier to get your foot in the door through an in-person (or online) introduction.

Need more tips on how to find a job in IT? Check out our IT job hunting guide.

28th May 2020
Ruby Developer : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Ruby Dev job description to attract top talent.

In the field of web development, there are many specialities and languages including Swift, Node.js, React.js or Ruby. Ruby is a free programming language. It is object-oriented and multi-paradigm. Relatively few developers choose to specialise in this language, although its syntax is easy to understand and pleasant to use. However, it is a popular language in digital start-ups and companies, such as Airbnb, Hulu or Groupon. Discover the role of the Ruby Developer.

Also explore the role of the QlikView Developer

What is the role of a Ruby Developer?

Analyse project specifications

The first mission is to understand the needs of their client, whether internal or external. It’s also to implement the programming solutions best suited to the budget and timing of the project.

Develop adapted applications and functionalities

Using the Ruby programming language and the open-source Ruby on Rails framework, the developer is responsible for coding and designing web applications that respect the specifications established by the web project manager or IT manager.

Manage tests and monitor project development

Throughout the coding process, the Ruby Developer is responsible for the testing. Once the solutions are in place, the developer must ensure that everything works properly. They must also often train their client or internal teams in the new systems installed.

Required skills of the Ruby Developer

Mastery of the Ruby language

The developer must master this programming language at their fingertips, as well as the open-source Ruby on Rails framework. It is also useful to master other web languages: HTML, CSS, Javascript…

Ability to self-educate

The Ruby language evolves regularly, so developers must always be aware of new features and be able to use them effectively. This requires regular reading and self-training.

Polyvalence

The developer must often be able to work on the web, on mobile applications, on video games … They must, therefore, have knowledge in all these areas in addition to their technical programming knowledge.

Quick execution

If there is a problem with a web or mobile application, it must be managed quickly. The expert must, therefore, know how to analyze where the malfunction comes from and find the solution in the shortest possible time.

Within the industry

The Ruby speciality is quite rare for a developer, so the profile that is quite sought after by companies. The expert can work in a web agency, as a permanent employee or as a freelancer.

Salary of the Ruby Developer

The average daily rate fluctuates between €300 and €550.

Training of the Ruby Developer

In conclusion, a degree from a college or technical school can help candidates access this position. However, it is possible to specialise in Ruby through specific training and certifications. There are also plenty of online resources for professionals to self-educate.

Discover all the web development programming skills and professions

14th May 2020
6 Simple Steps to Improve Online Visibility as an IT Professional
Just as with face-to-face interactions, first impressions are crucial in the online job-hunting world. Here are the key steps to improve online visibility; that every technology professional should take to project a solid online image.

6 steps to improve online visibility

Google yourself

Among steps to improve online visibility, this one might seem rather obvious… But you would be surprised of how many applicants forget this vital step. Remember that Fotolog or Myspace profile you made in middle school? Well, Google does. Chances are your adolescent self does not quite reflect the person you have grown to be. Or perhaps you would simply prefer keeping your personal life to yourself.

Conduct an in-depth search to unearth all the information a stranger would find should they looked you up online. Then review all that info and ask yourself whether or not you should delete certain things or update your account’s privacy settings.

Polish your LinkedIn profile

LinkedIn has become an absolute necessity for any professional looking for a job or wanting to stay active in the talent market. Your LinkedIn page is like your business passport, if you will. Start by polishing your profile.

Make sure your photograph is updated, professional and in HD. Follow the platform’s simple guide to complete your profile – add a good intro and about section describing your background and aspirations. Include all relevant skills in the dedicated section. Don’t just add job titles and companies in the timeline detailing your work experience. Provide a brief description of what you did while working for that company or what the project was about.

Be active where it matters

Would you trust a social media expert that wasn’t active on any social media platform? Probably not. Even if you secretly are an expert on something, it really pays off if you show it. At least you should be visible in the circles that matter the most to you and your area of expertise.

Create a robust profile on all relevant job boards and professional networks – from generalist sites like Indeed, to more specialised ones like GitHub or AngelList. Get involved in discussion groups and forums. Write an article or post with tips or insights you’d like to share. Here are a few examples of content you could be writing yourself:
- A piece on S/4HANA migration on SAP’s blog
- A Medium article comparing Swift and Kotlin
- A LinkedIn post tracking the evolution of the AI tooling market
If you want to go the extra mile, sign up to the portals of companies exclusively dedicated to IT and tech recruiting. That will put you in the radar of the top recruiters for your specialty. You can sign up to ours here.

Consistency across platforms

Once that’s covered, make sure that you are presenting a cohesive profile across all platforms and services. Is the image you are projecting on LinkedIn consistent with your Twitter profile? Are your past job titles the same on the different job boards? Do the start and end dates of previous projects match?

Maintaining consistency is important. It shows that you take yourself seriously and conveys a unified and robust message regarding who you are and what you aspire to.

Know your keywords

You know how search engines work. Check that you are including in your online profiles all the relevant keywords to secure a top spot on the search results page. Pay special attention to synonyms, and make sure to include the most common descriptive variants of an activity or skill.

Look at your peers

Something that can help you in your keyword search is looking at the profiles of other people. Look for experts in the field you are applying to, see what keywords they are using. Pay special attention to how they structure their personal and professional details, learn as much as you can. The more senior or trusted this subject matter expert is, the better.

Need tips on how to find a job in IT? Check out our IT job hunting guide.
7th May 2020
Data Analyst

Data Analyst is the go-to expert for all operations related to the company’s databases. They assemble and processes data in order to assess business activity and make appropriate recommendations. Their job allows them to “make the data speak” by interpreting them.

This relatively new digital profession is essential in all sectors: commerce, finance, banking, insurance…

Also explore the role of the IoT Consultant

What is the role of a Data Analyst?

Create and model databases

Certainly, one of the first missions of the Data Analyst is to collect, process and study statistical data to produce business analysis and provide recommendations. That is to say, the analyst creates and models the various databases necessary to accomplish the tasks, ensuring proper functioning and the regular updating of the database.

Define segmentation criteria

The Data Analyst is also responsible for
defining segmentation. To do this, they must find relevant data sources that
allow them, for example, to define the target of marketing campaigns or
identify consumer trends.

Popularize data and make it accessible

For example, extracting and translating business data into statistical data makes it possible to synthesize and popularize information. This data processing allows company managers and teams to analyze the data and use it to improve performance.

Required skills of the Data Analyst

An appetite for numbers

Above all, to be a successful, you must first of all love statistics. Reports, tables, graphs… are the main working tools of the Data Analyst.

Knowledge in data analysis and statistical methodologies

An expert in Data Analysis musts also have mastery of statistical methodologies and associated mathematical models to set up efficient analysis systems.

Proficiency in IT tools, languages and databases

Then, Proficiency in the DB SQL computer language, as well as in web analytics tools and data mining tools is often essential for data analysts.

Extreme rigour

Moreover, as this is an activity requiring the manipulation of encrypted data, the Data Analyst must be endowed with extreme rigour, having developed and analytical mind and fool-proof organization skills. Concentration is also one of the skills needed to be a good analyst. They also must keep abreast of new legal and regulatory regulations for data management.

Also read the differences between Big Data and Business Intelligence

Within the industry

The Data Analyst is a more than buoyant function which is set to keep developing strongly. With the evolution of the IT landscape, companies face exponential growth in the number of data. Therefore, large companies in areas like finance, e-commerce, marketing, industry and medicine are the most likely businesses to recruit in this area.

Salary of the Data Analyst

The average daily rate is between €400 and €800.

Training of the Data Analyst

In conclusion, to become a Data Analyst, college-level training is required. Companies tend to favour candidates who have followed courses in engineering, statistics, or even computer science.

To go higher up in this function then, it is recommended to pursue a specialized master’s program. Several career paths are possible, including as consultant positions such as Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Engineer, Data Engineer or even Chief Data Officer.

8th April 2020
The Different S/4HANA Roles

What are the different S/4HANA roles that IT professionals can choose to take?

As a result of the impending 2030 deadline,
businesses still relying on SAP’s older software find themselves in a race
against the clock to migrate to S/4HANA; a lengthy and hefty task. But early
adoption has been sluggish, and few SAP specialists have had the chance to get
hands-on experience with the technology.

Demand for S/4 skills is higher than ever and will only increase in the coming months. Both newcomers and SAP veterans have now the chance to jump on the S/4HANA bandwagon and give a boost to their career.

Functional vs.
Technical roles

Just as with ECC6, there are two main categories of S/4HANA roles: functional and technical. However, these two categories often overlap with one another, and the best specialists have a combination of the two.

Then, functional roles essentially serve as the link between business and solution development, helping organisations design and implement S/4HANA environments. These profiles combine a sound technical understanding of SAP’s ERP suite with domain expertise – having knowledge of, for example, finance or HR. They also possess strong communication and leadership capabilities. Therefore, a functional expert has a strong business background and a very good understanding of business flows and processes. Thus, that leads them to be responsible for customising the ecosystem after the implementation of new flows or after an evolution in the core model.

On the other hand, technical roles, as the name suggests, have more to do with the development (coding), monitoring and running of S/4HANA applications. Their main strength is in IT, and less so in industry knowledge or interpersonal skills. However, that doesn’t mean technical profiles don’t need to be competent in these areas – soft skills are becoming more and more crucial for IT professionals.

Functional roles

Specialists in functional S/4HANA roles come from a technical background or are at least well-versed in the technical requirements and capabilities of S/4HANA. Then, domain or industry expertise is a must, as they must have a good grasp of all those non-IT-related concepts to design efficient solutions.

Moreover, a great part of the functional specialist’s job is coordinating with business leaders, end-users and all the other roles involved in the SAP project. Consequently, they also must be good communicators and have well-developed project management and organisational skills.

Also, the specific role within the team mostly depends on the depth of focus and level of seniority. The main functional roles include:

Business Analyst

Firstly, SAP Business Analysts are responsible for assessing and defining the business case driving S/4HANA implementation. These professionals understand the ins and outs of SAP’s platform, leveraging great business and industry acumen to identify what ERP solutions can be applied to optimise company operations. They also help train end-users in the use of the platform.

They
often come from a business background or have extensive experience in the
specific industry and practice (e.g. Finance or manufacturing), a skillset they
complement with S/4 training and know-how. Others started in IT and have later
garnered valuable business and consultancy expertise.

Application / Module expert

These are very focused business analysts or more
technical profiles specialised in a particular S/4HANA module (e.g. Finance,
Sales). These subject matter experts can provide advice and implement SAP
components or oversee their day-to-day operations — or both. It is a must for
module experts to be proficient in the area of business to which their module
relates.

A good example of an SAP application expert is the SAP FI/CO consultant or analyst. These professionals are specialists in de Finance and Controlling modules, expertise which they combine with financial wisdom to help companies produce reports and streamline operational costs.

Solution Architect

As their title suggests, solution architects are the ones designing the S/4HANA environment based on the company’s business needs. They also have a big-picture mentality, which they mix with a deep understanding of SAP tools and other software and hardware tools to devise custom-made ERP systems.

In addition, architects need to be good at communicating their vision and collaborating across the many teams involved in a project, both in technical roles and in more business-related areas.

Project Manager

Somewhat the least technical role of them all,
the project manager coordinates the full life-cycle implementation and
configuration of S/4HANA projects. Think of them as a sports team coach. The
project manager keeps track of project goals and progress while ensuring that
every moving part is on the same page.

Moreover, these are individuals with strong leadership and communication skills and that have a knack for problem-solving. They possess a good understanding of the S/4HANA platform and its different modules. In fact, SAP project managers usually have a business background as well as expertise in core modules (e.g. Supply Chain or Finance). Under today’s continuous improvement and delivery (CI/CD) paradigm, project managers must also be proficient in Agile development methodologies.

Technical roles

These are the developers and specialists
responsible for delivering and maintaining the SAP solutions as designed by the
functional half of the team. Technical specialists are also often involved in
the design phase of a project and can help advice on capabilities or ways of
approaching a problem. The best specialists in technical positions tend to have
good business and domain knowledge and are able to put themselves in the shoes
of the functional specialist.

Technical S/4HANA roles include:

ABAP Developer

Creates, tests and implements S/4HANA solutions using SAP’s proprietary ABAP language. These are SAP’s hardcore coders, in charge of the platform’s back end and making the application work. They also are, of course, great coders, and they need to possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

The best ABAP developers combine mastery of
S/4HANA modules with great creativity to deliver efficient and lean software
solutions. They are also fluent in DevOps and Agile development methodologies
and work well in CI/CD product cycles.

SAP Fiori Developer

They are the front-end counterpart of ABAP
developers. SAP Fiori is SAP’s advanced user experience (UX) engine. Fiori
developers work together with their ABAP piers to develop the visual interface
of S/4HANA applications.

In addition, these technical professionals are good coders, but they also possess skills in end-user-related areas like psychology

SAP Basis Administrator

The equivalent of a System Administrator in other platforms, SAP Basis administrators configure and ensure the correct performance and the reliability of the whole S/4 environment. They also have a mix of technical and interpersonal capabilities and do a lot of landscape management and monitoring.

Basis administrators have a deep understanding of the S/4HANA ecosystem and its different modules, but they are also knowledgeable in ABAP, Linux and Java. They also have good collaboration skills, as they need to coordinate with technical colleagues and end-users to keep the system in perfect shape.

Security Analyst

Moreover, administers and monitors security roles and authorization profiles for S/4 systems. Security analysts can be also considered a more focused version of a basis administrator, combining deep technical knowledge of the SAP environment with a focus on security.

Security analysts are proficient in SAP’s
role-based security concepts and Profile Generator. They also need to be able
to speak to infrastructure-level security concerns to other, less technical
roles within the IT team or business managers.

Data analyst

Lastly, these professionals leverage business intelligence and data management to produce insights that help inform business decisions. They are also experts in data engineering and databases, able to create high and low-level data product designs based on business and technology requirements. Moreover, data analysts are experts in SAP HANA in-memory database, and they need fluency in Agile methodologies to be able to collaborate effectively with the rest of the technical team. Additionally, the best data analysts possess good business and domain acumen, which lets them reach deeper and more actionable insights and better communicate with their business peers.

Want to make the most of S/4HANA’s career potential? Also Check our comprehensive S/4HANA Careers Guide.

Find your next assignment on our freelance and permanent IT recruitment platform, or join Mindquest so you don’t miss out on any job opportunity!

8th April 2020
Weekly News Digest #12

Not everything is bad news…

If the crisis found you in the middle of a
job hunt, you might now be wondering if you’ll be able to find a job at all in
the current climate. Or perhaps your projects were put on hold and you need new
ones ASAP.

No need to worry.

With the surge in remote work and internet
traffic, businesses need IT professionals now more than ever. Cloud computing
services like Microsoft Teams and Azure are skyrocketing. So is
videoconferencing. But that’s not all.

Many businesses weren’t ready for this sudden digital transformation and need all the help they can get. Additionally, the rise in digital operations has accentuated the cybersecurity skills shortage.

Find out what industries are booming and how you can seize the moment in this article.

News from the frontlines…

With every day that goes by, we hear of
another tech initiative being launched to halt the spread of COVID-19. These
are certainly inspiring new developments, and we thought they deserve a space
in our weekly MCC update.

Stay
tuned every week to learn how vital the IT world is becoming in this global
fight ?

In the
meantime, you can get acquainted with all ongoing efforts with this
great article.

This week’s highlight?

Quantum computing leader D-Wave Systems is giving free cloud access to their quantum computers to anyone working on responses to the pandemic.

The power of comedy

As psychologists often remind us, seeking
solace in humour is a very healthy response to difficult situations — You
surely have noticed an increase in the number of memes you are receiving as of
late.

So…
here’s another weekly section! This week…

A software engineer at Dell has created a great (and fun) comic on why we shouldn’t be afraid of AI.

Plus, seriously — be careful with videoconference filters. These guys’ boss spent a whole meeting being a potato:

3rd April 2020
The World Has Stopped — Your Career Doesn’t Need To

Yes, the world has stopped. We are living through scary and uncertain times. Millions of people find themselves stuck at home for the foreseeable future. While businesses across the globe scramble to move their operations online and stay afloat. In this climate of uncertainty, economists and global institutions are telling us to brace for the worst crisis since 2008; some say even worse. Workers are losing their jobs, and whole activity sectors are freezing new hires.

If you were in the middle of a job hunt when all this started, nobody would blame you for becoming discouraged by the current situation. Or perhaps your current IT projects have been put on hold and you are fear you might not be able to find new ones anytime soon.

Well, we have a message for you — don’t surrender. There is still plenty you can do.

Thriving amid adversity

At the same time that industries like commercial aviation are going through the darkest days of their history, other businesses are thriving. From entertainment platforms and social networks to online retail and videoconferencing services, some companies are simply very well-positioned to take advantage of our society’s sudden change of habits. Even too well-positioned in some cases.

Enterprise cloud companies are experiencing lag and connectivity issues, while streaming services have had to downgrade their video quality to cope with the traffic increase. Meantime retailers are hiring in mass to meet the demand for online shopping and home deliveries. You can focus your job search on those sectors that are thriving in the middle of this chaos. There are plenty.

You can also join the frontlines of the fight against COVID-19 by collaborating with the many technological initiatives now underway — from 3D-printed ventilators to AI and data modelling.

A global thirst for IT specialists

The coronavirus outbreak has prompted a lot of companies to undergo light-speed digital transformation. Classes are going online, telemedicine is now a real thing, and you can visit museum exhibits through your laptop.

All of these organisations need skilled IT talent like yours. A recent study by London’s Imperial College suggests that, only in the UK alone, 48% of companies will prioritize technology hiring in the coming months.

Additionally, the soaring numbers of employees working remotely is accentuating an already existing problem: the cybersecurity skills shortage. If you have security experience or are thinking of obtaining some, now it’s the time.

The world has stopped: Gain new skills, take a closer look at your career

When was the last time you had so much time? Only the hours saved by not having to commute should be enough for you to benefit from the current situation.

Tons of free learning resources are available online these days, from coding bootcamps to university classes in all sorts of topics. Some eLearning portals like MasterClass have even started offering free courses for those at home because of to the pandemic. You can also develop your skills with a certain technology by using free official resources like openSAP or Microsoft Learn.

On the other hand, it’s not always that we get the chance to stop for a moment and re-evaluate our career’s direction while the world has stopped. Are you happy with what you currently do, or perhaps is it time to embrace other passions?  Is there something you could do or improve on to advance your career?

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2nd April 2020