What are my chances of getting back into a software development job once I'm on a break from job (say traveling for an year) or get laid off? Do companies have an "unwritten" rule not to hire out of job people or does my break negatively impact my career in any way apart from no cash flow from salary? Is it difficult to find a SDE job post the break?
No. Don't matter. Just have a 'meaningful' reason should they inquire about it. Don't say you just wanted to hone your Xbox skills.
Write off this period as "self employed, freelancer", on resume. Consulting, you know... Have a few small projects during that time (something easy, like a long term side project remotely) or just work on your own library\app\tool\website, then you'll say "I wanted to work on my side project full time and take a break from the rat race" if asked.
Does "learning a new skill" count? Ex: I've been backend eng all my life and wanted to transition and do frontend so took a break, attended bootcamp, did projects, learnt the skills and now I'm ready. How about that?
That's a really good reason if you are applying for a Front-end focussed role (like FEE). 👍🏻
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Honestly, I doubt it would be a big deal in this industry. Tech companies love those hipster backpacker style kids. Also, since your a software engineer, your interview process for any company will be a test of your skills. As long as the skills are there, I don’t see why you would have problems finding employment. If they ask about the gap, give them some story about needing to be a hobo and backpack across some third world country while you are still young and able. Someone else may have a different opinion, so feel free to correct me if I’m off base. Overall, I’d say OP should be fine, assuming they aren’t garbage at coding when they decide to rejoin the workforce.
@fomo! : Of course, I'll put in the work before I decide to join back - work to acquire new skills (if needed be), practice core competencies and such - if that's your concern. Update: @fomk! From Autodesk deleted their comment.