Like some folks, I get jealous seeing the massive TCs thrown around here. I compare myself and it makes my $150k TC seem like a joke at times when I know I should feel proud of what I earn. I get absolutely no equity—just cash and bonus. I’m also lazy as hell. In the good way, where I’m so good at my job, my “coasting” is other people’s “excelling”. I have a lot of dumb coworkers, to be honest. I’ve also never really worked at one of the “big names in tech”. I’ve had people here shit on me simply because they don’t recognize the name of #10 on the Fortune 10. “You’re a no name.” I’m good at my job (designer/developer). I’m confident I could get a job at a recognizable tech company, but I also wonder if it’s worth it. I constantly hear about exploitative behavior in FAANG, etc. Or shit WLB. And now the whole “hire to fire” and “requalify for your job” trends seem to just be gassing up people in tech even more. I know that most folks are okay to grind if it means they can FIRE early, but I just wonder if it’s really worth it. I was at a joke tech company (Capital One) and had the worst time under an impostor manager who abused me because he could. Should I just bust ass to get in and work at a big name for 3-4 years to FIRE and get out of what seems to be an unsustainable talent hustle? Or is it not worth it; just be stoic and content with a “good enough” salary and career at a non-tech company?
High TC usually comes with the cost of bad WLB. Basically you get paid more for working more and for having higher responsibilities.
That also doesn't mean that you will have better WLB if TC is lower. One of the reason why many want higher TC is to have a reason for why they are being exploited.
High TC != High WLB. Saying more money means more hours is just excuse for ppl who dont want to put in effort to switch
If you are good, you can have good wlb at some big tech, e.g. Google, LinkedIn, AirBnb. You will never know what other companies like unless you don't join them.
Well if you are not bothered by it why are you seeking opinions from people here? Ignorance is bliss my friend. If you are happy then stop being curious else you will be sucked into this vortex 😊.
I am in your boat, I make 150k TC (2 YOE) and work 10-20 hours most weeks. Been wondering the same thing. On one hand, I long to make money and am jealous that my SO makes 400k TC. On the other hand, my life is stress free and I get to pursue my hobbies. When my TC increased from 130-150, it was only more money in my savings and I didn’t spend more. I am thinking of trying for a large FAANG to see if it’s worth it. I am a top performer at my company, but the highest yearly raise is capped at 5% even for promo.
Use this free time to get six pack abs! In my experience it is harder to get than a high 6 figure TC 😛
I run over 50 miles a week, so I have closer to an 8 pack 😂
I worked at a startup 130k tc and wlb was pretty bad compared to my wlb now. My tc now is 300k+ and it’s worth it.
Same boat, wondering what to do
YOE? That will shape my answer
7. So I feel like I haven’t really been self-promoting at jobs or seeking out bumps. But I’m a manager that is still very technical/IC, too.
I was you. Surrounded by average to dumb coworkers, comfortable and coasting while getting stellar reviews. Kinda bored with life. Came to FB and suddenly surrounded by highly motivated smart people. The kick in the ass was much needed to motivate me to grow further in my career
If you are lazy, comfortable with your pay, and have good WLB… just keep cruising. The TC chase will send you spiraling into a life you hate.
I was you 3 years ago Tc was 155. Tc now 407. 18 Yoe. Bust your ass it is worth it. You will work a little harder but you won’t be bored. Good luck!
What if I told you there are companies that will be reasonably challenging with decent humans who will be your co-workers and managers?
It’s been hard to see. I’m sure there are. I just don’t know who they are anymore. All I see these days is hate for one company or another and it scares me. I also still have probably some unresolved trauma from my first really bad manager.