Ask HN: Leaving a dead-end job for a new challenge. Looking for tips and advice
I have stayed at my job (major European bank) for 4 years, and essentially lost these years. It is way too long when you consider that it is a dead-end job. I have stayed because it was simple, hours very good, and nobody bothered me. But since day one I felt I didn't belong.
Unfortunately software engineering jobs do not pay that much here. I here a lot of people here talking about being in a FAANG with top salaries and doing nothing. I'd be doing that too, but in my case the pay is far from top, and possibilities of raises and promotions essentially zero.
I am also not doing software engineering, but more project management. And even in this role, I manage very little. I do not handle budgets, define deadlines or what not. I simple receive the project plan that someone else has done (most likely another contractor) and just have to talk to software contractors to make sure they meet the deadlines.
I feel like I do not add value and my job is worthless. I needed a change.
I have dediced to take a risk.
I have put in my notice (1 month) and accepted a job offer for a remote startup.
During the interviews I've been really transparent. I have 2 years of backend coding experience (node.js), but haven't done it professionally for 4 years. But I am willing to challenge myself because I like doing the techincal part, and actually solving problems.
They also know that I am not familiar with the tech stack they use, but again, very eager to learn.
So, on one hand I feel good that they went along with me anyways. Maybe I just cost less of others, but I like to think that also my positive approach made an impact.
On the other hand, I am a little scared and I would definetly take some advice and tips from more seasoned people from this community, on how to face this change, how to approach the upcoming challenged, and how to get ready.
Thank you very much!