Plus: Apologies

[Darren Reely]

Jim Mc Coy wrote:

>
>But in the case of IT, the market rates are being un-naturally lowered due to the continuing lie of there being a shortage of programmers.  Yet, at the same time we are told there is a shortage of programmers, we see rates going down when they should be going up and more programmers losing thier jobs to lower paid foreigners on a daily basis.
>
As I understand the temporary work visas in the US, an employer is 
suppose to pay visa holders the same competitive rate they would a US 
citizen.  It is illegal to do otherwise.  The idea is to stop 
importation of cheap labor.  Keep in mind that people coming from other 
countries do not always know what the going rate is.  It's not like the 
low balling employer will tell them either.

As for the shorage of programmers, I've never believed that either.  One 
issue is the demand for already HIGHLY experienced talent is in short 
supply.  Most companies rather higher the experience instead of train 
from within.  Their demands can often be unrealistic.  At least in their 
ads.  Another issue is programmers are picky and should be looking out 
for their long term career.  Powerhouse, as has been mentioned here 
recently, may not be a good career choice.

Darren