Understanding App Developer Compensation Trends
Intro
Understanding the financial landscape of app development is akin to navigating a mazeācomplex and filled with hidden turns. While everyone sees the flashy apps on their devices, the world behind it holds a vast array of variables that influence the pay of those who craft these digital experiences. A deep dive into app developer compensation reveals not just the numbers, but also the intricate balancing act between skill set, geographic location, and industry trends.
In this exploration, we will dissect various elements that contribute to app developer salaries. From outlining the fundamental aspects of software development to recognizing the nuanced roles in the industry, each layer of this discussion paints a comprehensive picture for tech professionals and stakeholders alike.
Overview of Software Development
To truly grasp app developer pay, we must first set the context by defining software development itself. Software development is a systematic process of creating, designing, deploying, and supporting software applications. The importance of this discipline cannot be understatedāalmost every technology we interact with daily relies on sophisticated applications that enhance productivity and offer valuable services.
Definition and Importance
At its core, software development covers numerous methodologies and tools that aid developers in creating functional applications. Mobile apps, web applications, and enterprise systems are all products of this process, giving rise to a constantly evolving landscape.
The key to successful software development lies in understanding user requirements and delivering solutions that not only meet these needs but also adapt to changing expectations. The significance of this adaptability is what keeps developers in demand, ultimately impacting their compensation.
Key Features and Functionalities
Among the many features integral to successful app development, we can highlight a few principal functionalities:
- User Interface Design: Crafting an engaging and intuitive experience for users.
- Backend Development: Creating the server-side logic that powers the app.
- API Integration: Connecting with external services to enhance functionality.
- Quality Assurance Testing: Ensuring the product is free from errors before it reaches the end-user.
Understanding these core elements helps to outline what skills developers need to command a higher salary.
Use Cases and Benefits
Software development finds its applications across various industries. For instance:
- Healthcare Apps: Streamlining patient management and providing telehealth services.
- E-commerce Platforms: Enabling businesses to reach customers more effectively.
- Educational Software: Offering learners valuable resources anywhere they are.
These use cases illustrate that the demand for specialized developers can significantly boost earning potential.
Best Practices
For developers and companies alike, adhering to best practices is essential to maximizing efficiency, ensuring productivity, and avoiding common pitfalls:
- Maintain Clear Communication: Open lines of communication among teams streamline processes.
- Use Agile Methodologies: Adapting to change quickly leads to better product outcomes.
- Invest in Continuous Learning: Keeping skills updated is crucial, particularly with fast-evolving tech.
Tips for Maximizing Efficiency and Productivity
Here are some practical tips:
- Utilize Version Control: Tools like Git can save time and track changes seamlessly.
- Prioritize User Feedback: Regularly gathering user feedback helps steer the right direction.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Developers should be wary of:
- Ignoring Documentation: Lack of documentation can lead to confusion down the line.
- Skipping Testing Phases: Ensuring quality is non-negotiable.
Case Studies
Real-world examples provide a wealth of insights into practical implementations:
"Companies that prioritize developer satisfaction see a 25% boost in performance metrics, connecting employee happiness with greater financial returns."
Lessons Learned and Outcomes Achieved
A well-known tech firm redesigned its mobile application based on user feedback. This pivot led to a 30% increase in app downloads, shaping a direct correlation between responsive development and increased revenue.
Insights from Industry Experts
Experts often point out that companies genuinely invested in their developersā growth attract top talent, which directly affects salary scales.
Latest Trends and Updates
The tech industry is never stagnant. Here are some advancements changing the app developer pay landscape:
- Rising Demand for AI and Machine Learning Skills: A premium is attached to developers versed in these areas.
- Increased Remote Work Flexibility: Companies now evaluate pay based on a candidateās location related to market average.
Current Industry Trends and Forecasts
As per recent surveys, job mobility rates among tech professionals are climbing. Developers seek roles that not only offer competitive salaries but also align with broader personal goals.
Innovations and Breakthroughs
Emerging technologies such as augmented reality and cloud services are turning heads, creating new opportunities and pay scales for those equipped to handle them.
How-To Guides and Tutorials
Practical guides empower developers to keep pace with changes in the industry:
Step-by-Step Guides for Using Tools
New to a programming language? Consider following structured tutorials that break down complex concepts into manageable steps.
Hands-on Tutorials for Beginners and Advanced Users
Prioritize platforms like Codecademy or Coursera that tailor courses to varying experience levels.
Practical Tips and Tricks for Effective Utilization
A great way to stay ahead is by remaining active in developer communities on Reddit or specialized forums. Sharing experiences and learning from peers can unearth gem-like advice you won't find in textbooks.
Preface to App Developer Pay
Understanding how much app developers earn is crucial for both the professionals in the field and the organizations looking to hire them. The realm of app development is rapidly evolving, and with that comes a shift in compensation structures that can bewilder even the most seasoned tech veterans. From mobile to web applications, the nuances in pay can vary substantially based on various factors. Knowing these ins and outs can aid developers in negotiating their salaries or positioning themselves within the market.
Defining the Role of App Developers
App developers are the backbone of today's digital landscape. They're the ones who bring ideas to life through software, crafting applications that enhance user experiences. Making sense of their roles is essential in comprehending their compensation. These professionals generally fall into different categories, such as mobile developers, web developers, and those who specialize in specific platforms like iOS or Android.
Moreover, their responsibilities range widely. An iOS developer might focus intently on creating a seamless experience within the Apple ecosystem, while a web app developer might juggle both front-end and back-end tasks. Thus, the competencies required for each role can significantly affect salary expectations.
Overview of Compensation Trends
In recent years, trends in app developer compensation have shown a marked increase. According to various reports, average salaries have been climbing above the inflation line, which is quite noteworthy considering economic fluctuations.
Factors such as demand for skilled professionals, new technologies, and the rise of remote work have all contributed to this upward trend. It's not just about who can write code; it's also about who can adapt and bring innovative ideas to the table. On a broader scale, industry benchmarks show disparities in pay based on geographical location, experience level, and specific skill sets.
Key highlights include:
- Urban vs. Rural Salaries: Developers in metropolitan areas often command higher salaries due to both the cost of living and a higher demand for their skills.
- Emerging Technologies: Skills in machine learning, blockchain, and artificial intelligence can leapfrog a developer's salary into higher tiers.
As tech continues to drive the world forward, those anchored in software creation will find their worth increasingly recognized. The challenge remains to stay updated with skill demands.
With this foundational understanding, readers can grasp the elaborate web of factors that contribute to app developer pay, setting the stage for a more detailed exploration of the elements at play.
Factors Influencing App Developer Salaries
Understanding the compensation landscape for app developers requires a closer look at several key factors. Salaries can vary widely based on a multitude of elements, and recognizing these can be crucial for both employers and employees in the tech field. Various aspects come into play, from technical skills to geographical differences, and these factors collectively create a unique salary profile for every developer. Analyzing what drives these disparities can offer insights not only into personal earning potential but also how companies can remain competitive in attracting talent.
Technical Skills and Their Value
Programming Languages
Programming languages stand at the forefront of app development. Knowing which languages to master can significantly impact an app developerās salary. Languages such as Java, Swift, and JavaScript have distinct roles in app development ā from mobile applications to web interfaces. Java, for instance, is a staple for Android applications due to its scalability and efficiency.
The unique characteristic of each language determines its demand in the job market. A developer proficient in Swift, for example, is often considered a desirable asset in the iOS development scene. However, the learning curve associated with some languages might be steep, potentially raising concerns about whether the effort will translate into higher pay.
- Advantages: Developers focusing on in-demand languages often find themselves paid handsomely.
- Disadvantages: Specialization might lead to pigeonholing and limit a developer's versatility across platforms.
Frameworks and Tools
Frameworks and development tools enhance productivity and streamline the coding process. Knowing specific frameworks can distinguish one developer from another. For example, React Native allows for cross-platform application development, appealing to many employers looking to save time and resources.
This characteristic also showcases a developerās adaptability to different project requirements. With emerging tools like Flutter on the rise, the ability to maneuver through various frameworks can greatly amplify earning potential.
- Advantages: Being skilled in popular frameworks often correlates with better job opportunities.
- Disadvantages: Relying solely on frameworks could limit fundamental programming knowledge and skills.
Years of Experience
Entry-Level vs. Senior Positions
Experience is another pivotal element influencing salaries. Thereās a noticeable contrast between entry-level positions and senior roles. Fresh out of college, an entry-level developer might earn significantly less, often being seen as someone to train rather than an immediate asset.
Yet, as developers gain experience, the value they bring to projects increases, leading to a jump in salary. Established professionals, often in senior positions, can negotiate better pay packages that reflect their wealth of knowledge and contributions to successful projects.
- Advantages: More opportunities typically arise with experience, often leading to roles that are not only higher in salary but also in responsibility.
- Disadvantages: The initial phase of building experience can be financially challenging and may lead to job turnover as developers seek better compensation.
Impact of Career Progression
Career advancement also significantly influences pay. Developers who continually enhance their skill set, seek leadership roles, or switch focus areas can see notable raises in their salaries. Progressing from a developer to a project manager, for example, not only offers new challenges but also the potential for substantial pay increases.
The dynamic nature of the tech field means that staying current with trends can open doors to specialized roles that command higher pay.
- Advantages: The potential for upward mobility benefits both individual developers and the companies they work for as they harness new skills throughout their careers.
- Disadvantages: Thereās often a pressure to keep learning and adapting, which can lead to burnout or dissatisfaction.
Geographical Location
Urban vs. Rural Salaries
Location can make or break a developerās salary. Urban centers like San Francisco, New York, or London tend to offer higher wages due to the cost of living and the concentration of tech companies. In contrast, rural areas may not present the same opportunities or salary ranges. While remote work is becoming more common, many developers still find location crucial to their compensation.
Developers in cities might feel they have to accept a grueling pace of life, while rural developers may enjoy a better quality of life but at the cost of slightly lower salaries.
- Advantages: Higher salaries often come with opportunities for networking and collaboration in urban environments.
- Disadvantages: The urban lifestyle can be taxing, and housing costs often eat into the higher salaries.
International Pay Discrepancies
Internationally, pay discrepancies can be striking. Developers in the US or Western Europe often earn significantly more than their counterparts in other regions like Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe. The reason for this largely stems from differences in the economic landscape, cost of living, and the demand for tech talent.
Navigating these discrepancies is essential for developers considering relocation or companies looking to expand their talent base globally. It is a double-edged swordāvery often, the best opportunities come with the highest cost of living expenses.
- Advantages: Expanding into international markets can open opportunities for companies to find cost-effective talent.
- Disadvantages: It may lead to employer exploitation and wage undercutting, stifling local development.
Understanding these factors is crucial for app developers looking to maximize their earning potential and for businesses keen on attracting the best talent. As the industry evolves, so too does the landscape of app developer pay.
Types of App Developers and Their Salary Ranges
When looking at app developer pay, understanding the various types of developers is crucial. Each type has its distinct skill set and demand in the job market, which directly influences salary expectations. As technology evolves, so do the roles within app development. Knowing the salary ranges of these developers can help aspiring professionals target their learning and inform employers about budgetary considerations for hiring.
Mobile App Developers
Mobile app developers primarily specialize in creating software applications for mobile devices. As smartphones are now ubiquitous, the role of mobile app developers has never been more significant. They can delve into either iOS or Android platforms, and their salaries tend to vary based on the operating system they focus on.
iOS Developers
Focusing on iOS developers, they are integral to reaching the Apple audience. These developers typically work with Swift or Objective-C, which are essential languages for building iOS applications. A notable aspect of iOS development is the uniformity of devicesāApple products are consistent in user interface and user experience, which simplifies various aspects of development.
Being an iOS developer often comes with certain benefits. Developers in this field tend to earn a higher salary than their counterparts due to the prestige associated with Apple products. However, entering iOS development can be somewhat limiting in terms of market share, as iPhones represent a smaller segment in comparison to the entire smartphone market.
Key characteristic: High earning potential and brand loyalty
Unique feature: Development is often more streamlined due to consistent hardware.
Android Developers
On the flip side, Android developers are tasked with creating applications for a broader range of devices, owing to Android's open-source nature. They utilize Java and Kotlin mainly. This flexibility allows developers to tailor their applications for various screen sizes and hardware configurations, which can be a double-edged sword.
While the potential for greater market reach is a huge draw, it can also lead to more complex testing and debugging processes. Android developers may find their salary slightly lower than iOS developers on average, but the demand remains high due to Android's global footprint.
Key characteristic: Increased device compatibility and market share
Unique feature: Greater variance in user experience testing, demanding more versatility in development skills.
Web App Developers
The world of web application developers comprises those who create applications accessible through web browsers. This category is divided mainly into front-end and back-end developers, each having different yet equally vital roles to play in the web app ecosystem.
Front-End Developers
Front-end developers focus on the visual aspects and user interfaces of web applications. They use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to bring designs to life. Given the emphasis on aesthetics and user experience, front-end developers have become increasingly important with the rising competition for user attention online.
Their salary reflects this demand; many companies recognize that a good user interface can significantly boost consumer engagement. A downside is that the rapid evolution of frameworks requires front-end developers to engage in continuous learning to stay relevant in the industry.
Key characteristic: High focus on user experience
Unique feature: Continuous adaptation to new technologies and design trends.
Back-End Developers
Back-end developers build the server side of web applications, often creating APIs and databases that work behind the scenes. They typically work with languages such as Python, Ruby, or PHP. Unlike front-end developers, their contribution isnāt always visible to the end user, but their work is critical for the applicationās functionality.
Salaries for back-end developers can be competitive, often depending on specific tech stacks and the complexity of the systems they manage. As back-end development deals with data security and server interactions, it tends to demand a higher level of technical proficiency, which can be a pivotal factor in compensation.
Key characteristic: Strong demand for data management skills
Unique feature: Often works in tandem with front-end developers to achieve full functionality of applications.
Cross-Platform Developers
Cross-platform developers create applications that function on multiple operating systems, maximizing their reach without needing to maintain separate codebases for each OS. Frameworks like React Native and Flutter have gained popularity as they ease the process of developing for iOS and Android simultaneously.
While the ability to work across different platforms appeals to many developers and employers alike, there are trade-offs in terms of performance compared to native development. However, the ability to cut down development time and costs makes cross-platform development a notable choice for projects with tight budgets.
Salary Benchmarks Across Platforms
Salary benchmarks across different platforms are crucial to understanding the app development marketplace. They offer insights into how different operating systems and frameworks dictate earning potential. Knowing these benchmarks helps developers position themselves effectively in the job market. It highlights the disparity in compensation associated with platform preference ā a vital consideration when planning a career in app development.
Comparative Salary Analysis
iOS vs. Android Salaries
The financial landscape for developers tends to be shaped significantly by which platform they choose to specialize in. iOS and Android, the heavyweight contenders, present distinct salary profiles. Generally, iOS developers tend to command higher salaries than their Android counterparts. This can be attributed to several factors, including the higher revenue generated by iOS apps and the distinct technical skills required to develop for Apple's closed ecosystem.
However, focusing on iOS isn't merely about potential income. One also needs to consider aspects such as the user demographic. iOS users tend to spend more on apps, leading to better monetization opportunities which can further contribute to a developerās income.
Despite the lucrative nature of iOS development, Android has its own advantages, often providing a wider audience due to its global market prevalence. Tapping into the vast Android user base can lead to immense project scopes and diverse engagement opportunities. The challenge lies in navigating the multitude of devices and screen sizes.
Web Apps vs. Mobile Apps
When contrasting web apps to mobile apps, developers often face different earning potentials based on several factors, including usage trends and audience access. Mobile apps generally fetch higher salaries because they cater to specific user needs and typically require intensive development resources. That specialization often leads to better financial outcomes.
On the other hand, web apps offer a unique advantage. They can reach a broader audience across various devices without the restrictions imposed by app stores. This can manifest benefits in terms of development speed and agile methodologies, translating to cost-effectiveness for businesses, and ultimately can sway salary offers.
Both fields exhibit their unique traits. Web-based developers usually have broader exposure, allowing for opportunities that mobile developers may miss, like backend integration. Meanwhile, mobile developers enjoy a direct interaction with users' devices, leading to potentially higher satisfaction and a more significant role in app experience enhancement.
"Understanding these salary benchmarks across platforms is key to navigating the app development career path effectively."
In summary, different platforms not only determine the type of skills demanded but also play a significant role in shaping salary expectations. Developers must remain informed about these benchmarks to align their skills with market demands effectively.
The Demand for Specialized Skills
In the rapidly evolving landscape of app development, having specialized skills can mean the difference between being a run-of-the-mill developer and standing out in the crowd. As technology advances, so does the need for developers who are not only versed in standard programming languages but also equipped with niche expertise. This chapter dives into the compelling reasons employers are increasingly prioritizing specialized skills and how these skills influence compensation.
The Role of Certifications
Certification serves as a kind of gold star in the app development world. It signals to employers that a developer has committed time and effort to deepen their knowledge in specific areas. But certifications aren't just pieces of paper. They often encapsulate a developer's dedication to continuous learning, making them more attractive in a competitive job market.
Popular Certifications
Among the various certifications touted in the industry, the Certified ScrumMaster, AWS Certified Developer, and Google Associate Android Developer stand out.
- Certified ScrumMaster: Not only does it equip developers with agile methodologies, but it also enhances project management skills, which are invaluable when working in teams.
- AWS Certified Developer: In a cloud-dependent world, being proficient in Amazon Web Services showcases an understanding of cloud architecture and deployment.
- Google Associate Android Developer: This one is pretty much tailored for Android enthusiasts. It covers everything from the basics of app creation to more complex aspects such as meaningful user experience.
Having such recognized certifications elevates a developerās status, often leading to better job prospects and salaries. They offer a reminder that staying current is key to remaining competitive in technology.
The Impact of Certifications on Pay
Now, let's get into numbers. Research reveals that developers with certifications tend to earn significantly more than their non-certified peers. The distinct advantage of having certifications is that they often result in a higher starting salary and improved negotiation power during performance reviews.
The diversity of roles that certifications can apply to adds another layer to this impact.
- Developers who are certified often get access to specialized roles that are typically higher-paying, such as DevOps engineer or machine-learning engineer.
- Some studies indicate that certified developers earn up to 20% more than those without certifications.
But itās not just about the money; certifications frequently contribute to career satisfaction. Moreover, they can serve as a ticket to networking opportunities within tech communities, leading to further career advancement.
Emerging Technologies
The influence of emerging technologies on app development truly can't be underestimated. Developers who are knowledgeable in these areas find themselves in higher demand, often translating into increased pay and better job stability. Let's take a look at two major players in the game.
A.I. and Machine Learning in Apps
A.I. and machine learning are not just buzzwords; they are cornerstones for modern app development. Knowledge in this domain allows developers to create apps that can learn from users, ultimately offering a richer user experience. This required knowledge is becoming a cornerstone of app development and can open up lucrative opportunities.
- Key Characteristics: Skills in these areas often include knowledge in languages like Python and frameworks like TensorFlow.
- Benefits: Proficiency in A.I. and machine learning can lead to higher salaries, thanks to a considerable shortage of developers with specialized skills.
Blockchain and App Development
Blockchain technology, once viewed primarily as a medium for cryptocurrencies, is creeping into mainstream app development. Understanding blockchain can set developers apart in an industry that ās always looking for secure and verifiable solutions.
- Key Characteristics: Developers need to grasp the intricacies of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).
- Benefits: Like machine learning, blockchain proficiency can also boost salary prospects, as companies are willing to pay a premium for secure app solutions that integrate this technology.
"Developers who embrace specialized skills and certifications in todayās tech landscape are likely to see significant benefits in salary and career prospects."
Specialized skills in areas like A.I., machine learning, and blockchain donāt just enhance job prospects; they also contribute to job satisfaction, security, and potential for higher earnings. App development is a continually shifting field; thus, adapting to emerging trends is essential to maintain a competitive edge.
Understanding Freelance and Contract Work
Freelancing and contract work have become integral in todayās app development ecosystem. As tech professionals seek flexible roles, these arrangements offer unique advantages and challenges. Understanding this dimension of app developer pay sheds light on how earning potentials can vary significantly based on employment structure. Here, weāll delve into the nuances of freelance arrangements, salary expectations, and the distinctions between contract work and full-time positions.
Freelance Salary Expectations
When venturing into freelancing, app developers inhabit a world where earnings can swing like a pendulum. Unlike full-time roles, where salaries may be predictable, freelancers encounter fluctuating rates based on several factors. The nature of their projects, client budgets, and individual skill sets heavily dictate their income.
Typically, freelance app developers can charge by the hour or a fixed rate per project. Average hourly rates can vary widely, often landing anywhere from $25 to over $150, depending on experience and expertise. Hereās a short overview of key aspects related to freelance salaries:
- Project Type: Specialized projects, especially those in high-demand areas like AI or Blockchain, often command higher fees.
- Experience Level: A rookie might snag lower rates, while seasoned developers can leverage their portfolio to secure better pay.
- Client Type: Working with startups might lead to lower pay compared to bigger firms willing to invest in quality.
Freelancersā income may not be as stable, but they find access to a wide array of opportunities. As one freelancer noted, "It's not a nine to five grind, but one week you might hit a jackpot, and the next week might feel like a drought." This unpredictable nature can be intimidating, but many thrive in the freedom it offers.
Contract Work vs. Full-time Employment
Now, letās juxtapose contract work against full-time employment. In essence, contract work usually implies a fixed duration and specific deliverables, unlike the ongoing commitment of full-time jobs. While both have their benefits, they suit varying preferences of app developers.
- Flexibility: Contractors often enjoy more autonomy regarding work schedules and location. This can lead to a better work-life balanceāimportant for many tech professionals.
- Potential Earnings: Contractors can earn higher hourly rates than their full-time counterparts. However, they might not enjoy benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off, which are typically part of full-time compensation.
- Job Security: Full-time roles provide greater stability, especially for those who prefer a predictable paycheck. On the flip side, contracts may lead to ongoing opportunities and networking potential, though the ebb and flow of projects can create uncertainty.
Ultimately, the choice between freelance or contract work versus full-time employment boils down to personal priorities. Both avenues offer unique pay structures for app developers, influenced by the evolving landscape of the tech world. As the industry continues to grow, these employment types will undoubtedly adapt and flourish, providing an array of opportunities tailored to diverse developer preferences.
"In tech, adaptability is key. For every choice, there's a path of possibilitiesāfind what aligns with your goals." - Unknown
In concluding this section, it's crucial for developers to evaluate their career goals and financial needs in deciding between freelance, contract, and full-time paths. Each path has its own merits, and understanding them can lead to more informed career decisions.
The End and Future Insights
The exploration of app developer pay is not just an academic exercise; it is crucial for understanding the evolving landscape of technology and the marketplace for digital talent. As the demand for skilled app developers continues to surge, so too does the complexity of their compensation structures. This section aims to shed light on the significant findings from our analysis and to provide insights into the trends that could shape the future of app developer pay.
Summary of Key Findings
Analyzing app developer salaries uncovers several key insights:
- Diverse Salaries: Salary ranges vary considerably based on specialization, location, and experience. For instance, iOS developers often command higher salaries than their Android counterparts in certain markets.
- Impact of Location: Geographic disparities remain a compelling factor. Urban areas with a high cost of living offer better pay, yet remote opportunities are reshaping this traditional view.
- Skill Demand: The demand for specific technical skills has a direct correlation with compensation. Developers proficient in frameworks like React Native or technologies like machine learning tend to earn more than those with basic skills.
- Freelance vs. Full-Time: Freelancers might enjoy flexible schedules but often face income volatility, contrasted with the stability of full-time positions.
Understanding these dynamics helps developers navigate their career paths and make informed decisions about job opportunities.
Future Trends in App Development Compensation
Looking ahead, a few notable trends are on the horizon:
- Rise of Remote Work: The continued shift towards remote work is likely to level the playing field. Developers from various locales can compete for positions without the constraints of geographical boundaries.
- Emphasis on Soft Skills: Technical expertise alone may not suffice. Employers increasingly value communication and project management skills, potentially influencing pay scales.
- Tech Specialization: As technology evolves, so will the roles that developers fill. Proficiency in areas such as Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality may lead to significant salary increases owing to their specialized nature.
- Increased Certification Value: As more developers seek additional qualifications to stand out, state-of-the-art certifications are becoming a key factor in salary negotiations. Companies might offer higher compensation for certified professionals, viewing them as assets in a competitive market.
As the industry continues to transform, developers should remain agile. Keeping up with the latest trends and investing in both hard and soft skills will be pivotal in maximizing earning potential. Understanding the nuances of compensation in app development not only empowers developers but also aligns with the needs of employers seeking top-tier talent.
"In the changing landscape of app development, staying informed about compensation trends can be the difference between a job and a thriving career."
