IT leaders say redundancy is inevitable

IT leaders are updating their CVs as insecurity creeps in

Many IT leaders have accepted that their own redundancy is inevitable, according to a survey carried out by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

Out of the 2,340 managers surveyed, one in four respondents are updating their CV ahead of a possible employment search and 34 per cent are getting more involved in business networking with a view to generating job leads.

There is clear evidence of a pessimistic attitude from managers amid the current economic conditions, says the study, but there is less stigma linked to redundancy than during the 1990s, with 59 per cent of those polled stating that the recession is an opportunity for career reassessment.

When planning career progression, options mentioned by the managers surveyed included development of transferable skills during 2009 (22 per cent), obtaining a qualification (28 per cent), while five per cent intend to start their own business.

“Quite clearly, any suggestion that there is already 'light at the end of the tunnel' is misplaced," said CMI chief executive Ruth Spellman.

"However, if we can help people to dig deep and develop their skills this may enable them to move forward as well as to move on.

"There is a worrying lack of concern about helping those who survive redundancy and, unless these individuals are given a focus or sense of direction, the spiral of low productivity and morale will continue on a downward trend."