Addressing the Gap in Education for Lateral Hiring in IT Companies

Many IT companies are faced with the challenge of finding qualified candidates who meet their specific needs. One common challenge is the perception that candidates with educational gaps might not be suitable hires. However, as we will explore in this article, such gaps are not as significant a deterrent as one might think, especially for lateral hires. Let's delve into the realities of lateral hiring in the IT industry and how IT companies can effectively navigate the hiring process.

The Relevance of Educational Gap in Lateral Hiring

When considering lateral hires in the IT industry, companies often look for candidates with a seamless career trajectory, believing that such a background directly translates to a more predictable and reliable fit with the company culture and work environment. However, the reality is that many professionals take time off mid-career for personal or professional reasons, such as pursuing advanced degrees or career breaks. This 5-year gap between a candidate's graduation and their master’s degree, while noticeable, does not inherently render them a poor fit for a role.

Understanding the Educational Gap

The common belief is that a gap in education should raise red flags, but this notion is actually quite outdated. Numerous professionals take breaks between degrees to gain practical experience or to focus on other aspects of their lives. These gaps can even be seen as positive attributes, as they demonstrate the candidate's ability to plan their career strategically and prioritize their goals.

Case Study: Success of Lateral Hires with Educational Gaps

To illustrate the point, consider Case Study 1, where a mid-career professional returned to pursue a master's degree five years after graduation. This professional not only successfully completed their master's but also brought a wealth of practical experience to the table, supporting the company with innovative solutions and leadership skills gained during the break.

Impact of Gap on Career Trajectory

The impact of a five-year gap on a candidate's career trajectory can vary widely. In many cases, such a gap might indicate a period of learning, growth, and realignment of career goals. Candidates who take this time might pursue certifications, additional training, or industry-specific roles to strengthen their skill set. These experiences can often provide a more well-rounded and diverse skill set than a continuous career might. It's important for IT companies to understand that a candidate's gap could be an asset rather than a liability.

Tips for IT Companies in Evaluating Lateral Hires

Focus on Skills and Experience: Instead of solely relying on the candidate's educational background, focus on their practical skills and relevant experience. Assess the quality of the projects they worked on, the teams they led, and the impact they had on previous roles. Interviews and Recommendations: Conduct structured interviews and seek internal recommendations. Talk to the candidate's advisors or mentors to gain insights into their mindset and work ethic. Customize Evaluation Criteria: Develop a custom evaluation framework that aligns with the specific needs of the role and the company. This framework should take into account the candidate's overall professional journey rather than just the educational timeline.

Conclusion

Far from being a deterrent, the gap in education for lateral hires in the IT industry offers a unique opportunity for companies to identify candidates who have the potential to add significant value. By focusing on skills, experience, and a strategic career approach, IT companies can make the most of lateral hires and bridge the gap between educational achievements and practical applications in the workforce.

Case Study: Successful Lateral hires with Educational Gaps

Case Study 1: mid-career professional with a 5-year education gap

Name: John Doe

Background: John Doe graduated with a Bachelors in Computer Science in 2012 and worked for a top tech firm for the next 5 years. In 2017, he decided to take a break and pursue a master's degree in data science. He completed his degree in 2019 and joined a leading IT consulting firm as a data analyst. Within a year, John was leading several high-profile projects and presented at a major industry conference.

Insights: John's case demonstrates that a well-planned gap can lead to significant personal and professional growth. His practical experience and strategic decision to pursue advanced studies equipped him with the necessary skills to excel in his new role. This example highlights the benefits of considering candidates with educational gaps and the value they can bring to an organization.

Additional Insights From Industry Experts

Expert Quote 1: "When we look at lateral hires, we evaluate their skills, experience, and strategic thinking. A gap in education is not an issue as long as the candidate can demonstrate relevant and applicable skills." - Sarah Thompson, Senior HR Manager, Tech Innovators Corp.

Expert Quote 2: "Many candidates today are more career-focused than ever before. A gap in education can actually be a strength, indicating a candidate's ability to take time out for personal growth and development. We always assess their professional journey as a whole." - David Lee, Head of Talent Acquisition, FutureTech Solutions.

For Further Reading

Browse our article on Differentiating between lateral and vertical hiring in the tech sector to learn about the nuances of hiring strategies in the IT industry.

Better understand the impact of certifications and training programs on career development in our piece on The role of certifications in the tech job market.

Learn about the key sectors within the IT industry driving job growth with our guide on Top IT Sectors for Career Advancement in 2023.