A changing IT job market in Vietnam

A new employment report from online job platform Vieclam24, released on March 18, 2025, indicates a 2% decline in IT hiring demand in Vietnam during the first two months of the year compared to the same period in 2024. In contrast, the number of job seekers in the IT industry has surged by 18%, reflecting recent workforce shifts in the sector.

Despite this slight drop in hiring, software-related positions continue to rank among the highest-paying jobs in Vietnam. According to experts from Vieclam24, companies remain in urgent need of high-quality IT talent, particularly in specialized fields.

Persistent challenges in IT recruitment

The report, based on a survey of over 400 companies and 1,000 job seekers in early March, highlights broader labor market trends in Vietnam. While overall recruitment demand has increased by 19% compared to the previous year, labor supply remains uneven across different industries.

The IT sector is not the only field experiencing imbalances. Sectors such as data analytics, technology, logistics, and business development face a severe talent shortage, despite having high recruitment needs. Meanwhile, other industries report a surplus of workers, intensifying competition for available jobs.

One of the main challenges for employers is the rapid evolution of technology. Companies increasingly require candidates with advanced technical skills, yet many job seekers struggle to keep pace with industry demands. Employers also face strong competition in attracting skilled talent, with the labor market undergoing constant shifts.

AI and digital tools reshaping recruitment

The report also notes a growing impact of technology on recruitment practices. Companies are integrating AI-driven tools into hiring processes to improve efficiency, while job seekers are also leveraging technology to find opportunities more effectively. AI is increasingly being used for resume optimization, job searches, interview preparation, and professional development.

Despite these advancements, only 18.45% of job seekers currently use AI-powered tools in their job search, while 81.55% have yet to explore this technology. Experts predict that AI skills will become increasingly important for professionals looking to stay competitive in the job market.

The future of IT hiring: Skills in demand

According to a separate labor market report by Navigos Group, published in mid-February 2025, more than 81.2% of surveyed companies plan to increase IT recruitment this year and in the near future. Most businesses prefer candidates with one to three years of experience (55.47%) and three to five years of experience (27.36%).

AI is expected to play a crucial role in the future of hiring, both for companies and job seekers. Employers are actively seeking candidates with AI expertise, data analysis capabilities, and digital skills. Additionally, language proficiency -particularly in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese - is becoming an increasingly valuable asset for IT professionals looking to expand their career prospects with multinational companies.

Industry experts emphasize that IT professionals should proactively enhance their AI knowledge and automation skills to maintain their competitive edge. Keeping up with emerging technologies, adapting to flexible work models, and improving time management and communication skills are essential strategies for long-term career growth.

Furthermore, job seekers are encouraged to build a strong personal brand on professional networking platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook to stand out to recruiters and unlock new career opportunities.

Van Anh