If you’ve been in software for a while, there’s no doubt you’ve felt the vibes have shifted.
A few years ago, it felt like the sky was the limit. Remote work? Normal. Big salaries? Absolutely. Freedom to explore projects and build cool stuff? Of course.
Now, efficiency is in. Growth at all costs is out. That means leveraging AI to maintain outputs with smaller teams, fewer side quests, and senior leaders who are back in the weeds. On top of that, developers must directly support company outcomes, or risk becoming sidelined.
The industry is evolving, as AI reshapes the tech landscape. Knowing how to write great code is no longer a differentiator. It’s now an expectation. What sets great devs apart now is how they apply that code: how they understand customers, use AI tools wisely, and create meaningful impact. The bar is rising, but so are the opportunities for those willing to evolve.
So, what does this mean for your career? In a nutshell: You can no longer have it all. Trade-offs are part of the deal now.
You might not get remote work, sky-high pay, unlimited leave, startup-style autonomy, and rock-solid job security. You need to ask yourself: What do I want from a job? What am I willing to trade off to get it?.
The rules may have changed, but there’s still a way to build a career you’re proud of. I hope this report gives you the insights you need to make your next career move with intention.