Asking because I’m currently in a pretty happy position. Work is chill, colleagues are nice, full remote, pay is quite good. I’ve been here for one year and a half, and I could see myself staying here almost long term. My practice lead has been here for more then 10 years, he still seems pretty happy.
I know that goes against the usual consensus of moving every 3-5 years, so I wanted to see what you think about this.
First programming job I got laid off after ten years. Next longest was around 5 years, which I quit to move back near home. Everything else has been probably two years or so. It was all contract work except a two year stint working for a steel company. That was a good job but COVID.
Working one place is nice if you’re getting good raises and there is upward mobility. Moving around a lot I’ve learned quite a lot from how different places do things, and my skills would’ve really stagnated in one place. These days I’d be worried about keeping those skills up to date if the team is small and insular, but otherwise I’d probably stay if you’ve got a good thing. I’d still look around from time to time to make sure you aren’t getting underpaid, but if you’re happy I’d not consider leaving for less than a fifteen percent raise.
Happy at work is good, but it’s not your life and a big raise can make a big difference in everything else.
Thank you for your message!
Definitely, but I see it the other way: as long as work is good, pays well and allows to work remotely, I can focus on my life more and spend time with my family and friends. I’ve been in situations where work was stressful, and it really had an impact of my qualify of life
I don’t disagree, but depending on where you’re at career-wise, a few 15% raises can make a huge difference come retirement. There’s always more factors than just money, but money is a significant factor. Remote work is frankly huge when you look at the money not having to commute is worth in unpaid hours and transit costs. I wouldn’t go back to the office for a fifteen percent raise because I’d be losing money.
Appreciate your thoughts, though. The grass is definitely not always greener on the other side.
Definitely! I got a huge raise before coming here, and I think I’m good on that side for a few years. Normally there should be a promotion at some point, with a raise linked to it.
Completely agree.