These days, just graduating with a degree in Information Technology or Computer Systems isn't enough. One recent article by IT Business Edge pointed out that while the technology field is booming, it is also fiercely competitive. With so many job openings, more graduates are applying to similar jobs, making it more difficult for human resource staff to decide upon already highly-qualified and ambitious candidates.

While your resume, skills, and expertise in the field of IT may already set you at the forefront of your cohorts, there are still a number of ways that you can tailor yourself to set yourself apart from the competition. As Silicon Valley Watcher, who participated in an open discussion with Google, Twitter, and Cisco points out, there are a number of ways that top companies identify which grads will gain a position on their teams. Below is a summary of the main points these discussions outlined.

Much More than Just Grades:

During your higher education, you probably have heard the alleged maxim that grades matter "more than anything." As much as most grades buy into this statement, it is ultimately nearly useless when looking for a job in the IT field, especially if you're trying to make it with the country's best companies. As Google's CEO made clear, "GPA's are worthless as a criteria for hiring, and test scores are worthless." While grades certainly don't seem to matter, Google places its focus on your certifications, your ability to "think on your feet," and whether you'll be able to fit into the company's culture.

Flexibility:

Another new trend in HR for this year's top Tech companies is that hiring representatives are looking for their new employees to be more flexible. For example, both Cisco and Twitter pointed out that they'd be open to having their employees working from home, so long as they'd be open to using video monitoring systems and not just audio. The reasoning behind this is that by simply using audio systems, employees remain less accountable because they'll be able to "just walk away" whenever needed. Therefore, when tailoring your resume and cover letter for at least Twitter and Cisco, you can certainly point out your IT certifications, experience in the field, and your openness to remain as flexible as possible. Being able to adapt to a different and new workplace dynamic in the IT field is a key to success.

Technology: Fields of Expertise:

Not only are HR representatives looking for certified and not simply grade-oriented employees, but the SRM Foundation points out there are other traits that IT professionals are expected to display. For example, respondents to a survey about important IT professional traits cited that they would like to see more grads have better soft skills and come with at least a bit of technical expertise to the job.

Another important element was having work experience in the field, meeting the necessary educational requirements, and also displaying the requisite language skills. To attain these qualifications, it is best to consider taking an internship or a part-time job in the technology field. These steps will allow you to gain experience, qualifications, and the desire to expand your certifications beyond what you are already aiming for.

As work experience is becoming a factor that separates you from the rest of the cohort, check your part time employment and/or internship options with your educational facility. In recent times, the IT educational facilities are aware of what the IT working market is looking for in their employees, thus certain educational facilities are now widening the educational experience to include assistance in obtaining part time and/or internship work for their students.

The IT field is already highly competitive. As company expectations keep changing, so should the way that you market yourself to potential employers. Having the right certification, demonstrating an ability to think fast, and solving technology problems in a practical and efficient manner is only part of the puzzle. HR managers are also looking for people who adapt well the company culture and who also have the ability to communicate well and be part of a dynamic and upbeat company culture.