The continued evolution of cloud-based systems and associated business practices will ensure that information technology professionals with demonstrated knowledge of that sector will be in high demand in 2014. For many industry analysts, widespread adoption of cloud technology by a variety of companies across the country has naturally meant that many information technology professionals have had to become familiar with it. As a result of its growing acceptance as a secure form of data storage and transmission, information technology recruiting is likely to change.

As cloud technology has evolved, an increasing number of companies in a variety of industries have been making the transition and need professionals to manage their cloud strategies. Though cloud technology has been a hotly debated topic amongst many groups, according to The Washington Post, cloud can now be considered a permanent part of 21st century society, with a recent study by Gartner predicting that companies will spend $788 billion on cloud-based services by 2018.

Cloud acceptance 

According to the annual North Bridge Future of Cloud Computing survey, 75 percent of U.S. companies used cloud services in 2013. Even small-to-medium businesses are adopting the technology: a recently released report on the state of SMB and IT, conducted by Spiceworks and cited by Forbes, showed that 69 percent of companies with less than 20 employees already use the cloud, and this number is expected to increase in the coming years. As a result, if you are an IT professional who is particularly interested in working in a smaller environment, it is becoming increasingly important for you to become proficient in cloud technology.

In fact, cloud computing is quickly becoming one of the most valuable skills on an IT resume. This becomes ever more apparent when considering the evolution of the mobile workforce.  As a result, employers who are becoming increasingly aware that many tasks and projects can be completed outside of the office, are also recognizing that technology must be put in place that will allow employees to access information remotely. As workplaces become more flexible, it will become even more important for IT professionals to showcase their cloud skills.

IT professionals understand that the sector thrives on the evolution of technology. However, for the industry to truly evolve, IT professionals must ensure that their skills do as well. As organizations become more dependent on cloud computing as part of an overall business strategy, knowing how to leverage your cloud skills in 2014 will be a valued asset in your IT job search!