2007 is shaping up to be a good year for IT professionals, but not necessarily for IT managers, unless they take some defensive measures now, to help lock in staff loyalty and bolster job satisfaction levels.

There have been a number of recent reports predicting a tighter IT labor market next year - though for once they mean fewer bodies to fill jobs, versus the fewer jobs for more bodies problem that has been plaguing the field for last five years or so.

Outsourcing is continuing to grow - but with less anticipated impact on U.S. IT workers, say some analysts. The issue, according to Dice CEO and President Scot Melland, is more one of companies seeking to fill jobs and to continue overseas expansion efforts than of cost cutting.

For U.S. workers, this should mean more job security, more career opportunities and perhaps a more responsive and flexible management team. It apparently won't necessarily mean much more money. Which means IT manager will have to work harder next year on retention and recruiting issues.

Why? Because the tight labor market is expected to lead to more poaching of staff, for one. For another, if you can't offer more money - you'd better be prepared to offer something in its stead. Fortunately, survey after survey seem to agree that most workers today value more time off and or a more flexible work arrangement over a promotion or pay raise. Savvy IT managers can use this to their advantage when recruiting or preparing for reviews of current staff. Other retention tips from Melland include making sure your team has sufficient opportunity to keep their skills current, giving them the flexibility to choose the training they want, and making sure your compensation levels are competitive for your area.

What will you be looking for jobwise in 2007 from your employers?, and what changes or opportunities do you think you'll be seeing? Drop us a line here and let us know.