Title: I worked for a long time in different software engineering positions in b2b tech companies. It looks like a majority of them go through a very similar trajectory - more product, more customers, raise more money, more people, rinse and repeat until you get to IPO or acquisition.<p>On the one hand, this approach is understandable (it’s what business is built for), and the pay is good in such companies. But, on the other hand, life&#x2F;work balance usually sucks.<p>First of all, there is an unsaid expectation of long hours. A company is always on the verge of signing a new huge business deal, preparing for the magic quadrant, and having critical projects. And even if some reasonable hours are negotiated&#x2F;achieved, people are forced to have an insane amount of multi-tasking (juggling numerous tasks, initiatives, planning, replanning, strategy shifts, and so on). On the paper, life&#x2F;work balance is advertised in such companies. In reality, work at such a company is draining way too much energy.<p>Another unpleasant side. As part of this rush forward, engineering usually cuts many corners (both in tech and vetting new hires). This rush creates a mediocre (at best) tech culture with a lot of tech debt and not following well-established best practices. A huge part of solving&#x2F;fighting these problems falls on the top tech talent (especially on responsible employees).<p>I am at the stage of my life where physical and mental health is more important than a marginal dollar. As a result, I have started to look around, and I would appreciate the advice.<p>Do you know which specific companies or preferable areas have better work&#x2F;life balance and are more committed to tech excellence?
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