"But a decline is still a decline. Factor in the ravages of inflation, and in real terms that slight fall represents a significant loss of 3-5 percent. Ouch. (Government data claims that inflation actually declined 1.3 percent over the last year, but if you believe that you also believe in the tooth fairy.)
"Making the salary dip seem worse, perhaps, is the inherent instability of a career in IT. Some lucky individuals stay at one post for several years, but plenty of IT staffers re-enter job market every 2-5 years. Sagging salaries mean that an applicant who now offers more experience could actually see lower pay.
"Dreary economic tidings push down IT salaries in a host of ways: company closings, a focus on cost cutting, increased outsourcing. Some firms have hiring freezes. Plenty of aging boomers who hoped to escape the grind now face deflated portfolios and so plan to hang in there – meaning fewer job openings."
