Is IT Still a Viable Career Path After 40? An SEO Analysis

With my extensive experience in the technology industry, I can confidently say that IT is a business-driven field. Percentiles and individual achievements matter less than one might think. Your platform and the value you bring to the company are what drive salary rewards.

IT as a Business-Driven Industry

IT companies, especially big players like Accenture, prioritize profit and strategic value over individual hard work. They look at your ability to drive business outcomes, not your coding skills or emotional labor. As a 3.5 LPA offer for a System and Application Service Associate position at Accenture, consider the

Why Business Doesn’t See Emotional Effort

Take, for instance, someone with a 98th percentile in their MCA CET. Their excellent Visual Basic skills are impressive, but in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, outdated technologies like Visual Basic won’t fetch decent salaries. Instead, businesses are more interested in platforms and tools that drive current business goals. This is why, regardless of your coding prowess, your career longevity in IT depends on your ability to demonstrate business value.

Realities Beyond Age and Percentiles

Over 60 percent of IT professionals do not even earn a decent salary to live properly. The illusion of six-figure salaries persists because only a small percentage of the population actually enjoys such benefits. Furthermore, these high salaries often come with heavy tax burdens, diminishing the net gains. At 35, your job is already shaky, and by 40-42, you are likely to be phased out. Although extremely lucky individuals might survive until the age of 45, the industry is not kind to those who age beyond their 40s.

Corporate Dynamics and False Shines

The alleged meritocracy in tech is more of a mirage. There is extensive use of referrals and politics, often leading to preferential treatment. Many companies, particularly in tech hubs like Bangalore, Noida, Gurgaon, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune, are fraudulent enterprises. These companies create a false sense of success and importance, while in reality, they offer minimal value and high risk.

Where IT Falls Short

The tech industry is often romanticized as a field of scientific brilliance. However, the reality is that most companies are not invested in nurturing talent for the long term. They simply hire resources, sometimes to replenish multiple positions, and create impressive resumes from a single person. This is a demoralizing practice that devalues the hard work and ingenuity of professionals.

Long-Term Career Outlook

The average career span in the tech industry is short, rarely extending beyond 40 years. Those who age outside their 40s are often considered outdated or expendable. The industry’s focus on innovation and the latest technologies disregards the contributions of older professionals, who might have valuable experience and insights that are not easily replaceable.

Alternative Career Paths

As you consider your next steps, it’s crucial to explore alternatives that offer better career longevity and stability. Finance, insurance, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), healthcare, and utive programs are all viable options. These sectors often prioritize experience and proven track records, providing a more sustainable career path beyond the age of 40.

Conclusion

The tech industry is significantly different from what many perceive. While there is value in achieving high percentages and excelling in specific technical skills, the true value is in your ability to drive business outcomes and stay relevant. Given the realities of the industry, it's wise to consider alternative career paths that offer better longevity and stability, especially after the age of 40.