Staff retention is the main concern for IT directors, according to research from technology staffing specialist ReThink Recruitment.

The research shows 85% are either very concerned or concerned about staff retention in the year ahead.

The research also shows 41% of IT directors increased their headcount in 2010, compared with just 32% in 2009, while 80% anticipate their headcount to either increase or stay the same in 2011.

Michael Bennett, director of ReThink Recruitment, says: “The good news for IT professionals is that the recovery in jobs and pay is accelerating. However, this is creating a different kind of headache for employers as they now face the very real challenge of holding onto key staff.

“There isn’t a vast pool of unemployed talent for IT directors to go fishing in, as skills need to be very specific and regularly updated.

“This will propel retention strategies to the top of the priority list. These strategies are not necessarily just about throwing cash at the problem. The opportunity to manage a team, or some investment in their training can often cement an employee’s commitment to a business for the immediate future.”