A candid Reddit post by a software engineer has drawn widespread attention for highlighting the realities of job insecurity and career stagnation in the technology sector. The post details how the engineer was asked to resign after spending nearly 15 years at the same company, forcing him to re-enter the job market for the first time in over a decade.
The engineer wrote that he had remained with the organisation through multiple rebrands, restructuring phases and funding cycles, including the uncertain period following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the situation reportedly deteriorated earlier this year when expected funding failed to come through.
Funding troubles and sudden exit
According to the post, warning signs emerged in July, when changes in leadership indicated deeper issues. “My manager was let go soon after, and by mid-August, it was my turn,” the engineer wrote, adding that he was asked to resign rather than be formally laid off. He stepped down at the end of August.
Reflecting on his time at the company, the engineer said that while his work was rarely recognised, he stayed on due to familiarity, trust in leadership and the nature of the technical challenges. “Once it fully sank in, the hardest part was realising that I never received the recognition that might have encouraged growth,” he noted.
Struggling in a changed job market
Now navigating a highly competitive hiring environment, the engineer shared that he has applied to 60–70 roles with very limited response. While a few automated rejections suggested his applications were reviewed, the overall lack of engagement from recruiters has been discouraging.
Using his experience as a lesson for others, he offered blunt advice: long-term loyalty does not guarantee security, performance alone may not protect jobs, and staying too comfortable can hinder career growth.
Advice for professionals
The post urged professionals—especially those in fast-changing industries—to stay adaptable, keep communication open about company direction, and regularly assess their market value. He also stressed the importance of keeping résumés and professional profiles updated, interviewing periodically, and building a strong professional network.
Despite the uncertainty, the engineer ended on a hopeful note. Approaching his 40th birthday, he said personal support systems had helped him remain resilient and optimistic. “I’m choosing to see this as the beginning of a new phase,” he wrote.
Source – https://newskarnataka.com/india/reddit-post-on-tech-job-insecurity-strikes-chord-online/18122025