Should I Stay at Infosys or Switch to a Product-Based Startup?

With 12 years of IT experience, you're at a critical juncture in your career. You're currently earning 14 LPA at Infosys but have been offered 22 LPA by a product-based startup. This article will help you weigh the pros and cons of both options, ultimately guiding you on making an informed decision.

Comparing Compensation and Opportunities

Firstly, it is evident that the financial discrepancy between staying at Infosys (14 LPA) and joining a startup (22 LPA) is significant, especially in the startup world. According to several professionals, startups are not only offering higher salaries but also promising career growth, which is often under-appreciated in large corporations like Infosys. People who have made the switch from companies like HCL have reported salaries ranging from 24 LPA to 28 LPA for 7 to 9 years of experience. It's crucial to evaluate these factors in the context of your long-term career goals.

Career Growth and Skill Development

The decision to join a startup also offers unique career growth opportunities. Startups often provide a platform where you can learn and adapt to cutting-edge technologies and tackle complex problems, thus enhancing your overall skill set. Experts recommend starting a career in startups between 3 to 5 years of experience, as this period allows you to gain practical experience before making the transition to a more stable environment. After 2 to 3 years in a startup, you can use your learned skills and experience to switch to a reputed company like Google, Oracle, Uber, or Microsoft, earning anywhere between 30 to 40 LPA, depending on your technical proficiency.

Case Studies and Personal Experiences

For instance, a person who switched from Infosys after 15 years of experience (his first switch), moved into the role of a Solutions Architect but within 7 years, became a Vice President at another company. This case underscores the value of switching journeys, even with extensive experience. However, it's important to note that when you are seated at a company like Infosys for a long time, you might feel comfortable but also stagnant. Switching to a startup will require you to adjust, exert more effort, and adapt to a higher work pressure. However, this transition can also significantly enhance your financial stability and skillset. After a few months, you will find yourself in a better position both financially and in terms of skill development, whether you're pursuing a developer role or any other IT consulting position.

Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks

While staying at Infosys has its advantages, particularly in terms of job security and a well-established corporate culture, switching to a startup offers higher salaries, faster career growth, and the opportunity to learn new skills in dynamic environments. Many professionals in the tech industry believe that the first 10 to 12 years of an IT career are crucial for maximizing both learning and earning potential. After this period, the number of positions and ease of switching diminish. Thus, for someone with 12 years of experience earning 14 LPA at Infosys, joining a startup at 22 LPA is indeed a better option, despite the increased work pressure.

Advice and Conclusion

Do not stick to staying in a single organization for too long, even if it means passing up a 22 LPA offer. Optimize your career path by strategically switching roles and companies every few years to gain the most from your experience and livelihood.

Remember, the early years in your career are critical, and making the right choices can significantly impact your long-term success and financial stability. Go for the better offer and pave the way for a more prosperous future!