Dice recently released its seminal 2024 Tech Sentiment Report, offering a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the tech industry through the lens of technology and human resources professionals. The report provides critical insights into the economic outlook, career growth and impact of AI on tech professionals, highlighting the dual sentiments of concern and quiet optimism amidst a challenging year.
“While the industry has faced significant challenges, tech professionals are adapting by upskilling and actively seeking new opportunities,” said Dice CEO Art Zeile. “The demand for professionals with expertise in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity and data science remains strong, and tech professionals are optimistic about the future. With that optimism, they continue to prioritize companies that align with their values, offer meaningful work and provide the benefits that matter most to them.”
Economic Outlook: Navigating Uncertainty in the Tech Sector
Our findings reveal mixed sentiments among tech professionals on the economy and the future of tech growth. While 3 in 10 tech professionals feel optimistic about next year’s economic conditions, a nearly equal share feel pessimistic. Optimism in long-term tech growth, however, is high, with 8 in 10 tech professionals expecting the tech industry to grow in the next five years. These mixed sentiments are likely a reflection of a turbulent year that has seen widespread layoffs and wavering tech job openings.
The sense of uncertainty in the industry is exacerbated for 36% of tech professionals at smaller companies (<500 employees), who express heightened concerns about company stability and performance.
One thing that has remained stable is compensation continuing to be a key motivator for tech professionals. Increased compensation remains the top driver for those considering a job change, and 76% of tech professionals take on side gigs to earn supplemental income.
HR professionals maintain a positive outlook, with 70% anticipating an increase in tech hiring in the near future. This optimism is particularly strong regarding advancements in AI and machine learning (ML), which are each expected to experience significant growth in the coming years.
Life at Work: The Ongoing Debate Over Remote Work
Remote work continues to be a significant priority for tech professionals, with 9 in 10 reporting it plays an important role when evaluating new opportunities.
The most cited benefits of remote work include cost-effectiveness, increased productivity and greater flexibility. However, a disconnect persists between tech professionals and their employers regarding remote work preferences: 87% of employers continue to favor hybrid work settings.
Even though tech professionals favor remote work, many employers are pushing for either a hybrid model or reducing remote work options altogether, particularly in larger companies. Furthermore, employers who mandate in-office days may face higher levels of job dissatisfaction among employees. Tech professionals required to work in the office at least one day per week report nearly double the dissatisfaction levels compared to those who attend the office without a mandate.
Despite these tensions, tech professionals report that their work-life balance remains unchanged from last year. Those who work remotely at least one day a week enjoy a better work-life balance, and 61% are willing to prioritize this balance over a higher salary when considering new roles. This trend underscores the importance of work-life balance in the evolving landscape of tech employment.
Career Growth: Balancing Ambition with Realism
Dice found growing dissatisfaction among tech professionals with their current positions, with 67% considering a job change despite concerns about finding new roles. Burnout and toxic work environments are significant factors driving this desire for change. However, the allure of higher compensation, greater responsibility and career growth opportunities continues to attract tech professionals to Big Tech (MAMAA) companies, with 21% specifically preferring to work for them.
The demand and satisfaction for AI professionals stands out in this year’s report. AI professionals report a more positive job market and better work-life balance compared to other tech professionals: 58% of AI professionals are confident they could find a favorable new role in their field this year, compared to only 36% of other tech professionals that feel the same. In addition, more AI professionals report that they experienced a better work-life balance than they did last year, at 41%, compared to 26% of tech professionals in general.
Their confidence in finding new roles and the high demand for their skills position them as a unique group within the broader tech landscape. However, HR professionals face challenges in recruiting AI talent, primarily due to a knowledge gap and the competitive nature of the AI job market. Forty-six percent are actively recruiting for these roles right now, and 82% anticipate demand for AI professionals to increase in the next six months.