The current economic crisis is affecting all sectors and, of course, the technology is to be expected. Spain is the European Union country with the highest unemployment rate: about 20% (almost double the European average). In just a few years, finding a job in the field of technology / computer has become an almost impossible mission. Sergio Rodriguez is a Computer Engineer, when he began to look for work, for nearly three years, companies almost went to colleges looking for students about to complete their studies. This was the case, without even finishing his career, he joined the staff of a large company, one of the industry leaders. Sergio Rodríguez today outlined the difficulties passing a sector, the engineering, which until now had been considered invulnerable to rising unemployment rate.
- takes about three years in the working world, how he got his first contract at that time?
- seems impossible, because he has spent very little time, but first, were the companies themselves that made the selection process at the university. I was pursuing my final year of Engineering Computer and a company contacted me through a website search of employment. After a short interview I was offered a job in Madrid, six months training and the possibility of a permanent contract at the end of practice. Without the title of Engineer, had gotten a job in one of the most valued software companies worldwide.
- Do you consider the job offer in your sector has declined since he joined him?
- Of course, as discussed above, it just three years had a job, even for people who had never graduated. Today, the company I work for has significantly reduced its workforce. Also, do not hire people without experience just proved. On the other hand, movement of personnel between enterprises was ongoing, were fighting for the best.
- What do you mean exactly?
- My first job was for a large company. At the time I got a contract I stopped looking for work was at ease in my company. However, without knowing how, every so often competing companies contacted me wondering if you wanted to join their ranks.
- And what used to be your response?
- I had no interest in changing the company, my job was well paid and the business climate was good. Most bids came I improved my salary at the time, but not worth it. One day came an offer from a company that, in addition to a better wage, I had great opportunities for advancement at work: new challenges and possibilities of promotion. Then I gave up and changed jobs.
- With the experience that gives Over time, what was worth the change?
- No doubt. The company he worked for the crisis suffered much more than mine, suffered a major process of downsizing. The good thing about working in a multinational company is that it provides greater resistance to economic problems. It has a diversified customer base and if one of them fails, you can survive through the rest.
- What do you think was the reason that his first company to succumb to the crisis?
- As I said, the lack of diversity of clients was crucial. We do not we were doing just to make web pages for small businesses. Our main customers were banks, and even though they have hardly the crisis, has withdrawn many of their projects. If your economy is based on four clients and two of them will leave, you're forced to do without half of the company. It's hard, but it is.
- Renew or die: Do you dare to venture to some extent for the sector out of crisis?
- is difficult. I'm no expert in economics or business administration. The government says the end is near , and it is still be seen. I think the crisis is like a flu that is to happen. Can not be cured, but can take steps to reduce symptoms. The ERE is not a good start for workers (but sometimes the only). We must learn to sacrifice for the company: work overtime or even take on responsibilities that, in principle, should not be assumed. Companies greatly value the commitment we have with them, they want you to have a sense of belonging to it, you're able to sacrifice and that, ultimately, is a reward.
- Would you give some advice to whoever is in the same situation as you for three years?
- Looking for work? I guess the solution is formed. The last thing people want a company is very active. Training is greatly appreciated in times of crisis: if you can not find work, trying to find a master, a course or just learn languages. But do not stay at home. Young people are increasingly educated, today, who more and who less, is Engineer, holds a Masters degree or two and also dominate two or three languages. Throughout these three years I have met many people interested in joining the working world. Their main problem, and I hope this is not wrong, is his own ego. I have heard many young say: "I'm Engineer and I have been five years of my life in college and I do not work for less than 2,000 euros a month." That's not the philosophy that companies seek. The big companies want people who, rather than worrying about the initial conditions of work, are forward-looking. Many offer training contracts for six months without pay with higher possibilities rather than become part of its workforce at the end of practice. Still, it's amazing how many people reject these conditions.
Sergio Rodriguez Computer Engineer from the University of Oviedo and computer analyst.