The annual Tech Sentiment Report released by Dice, a tech career marketplace under DHI Group, highlights that despite a tech recession affecting the broader economy, a significant portion of U.S. tech professionals are actively seeking new job opportunities. The report indicates that nearly one-third of tech professionals are actively looking for new jobs, and a substantial 60% are contemplating changing employers within the next year. These trends persist despite a relatively low tech unemployment rate of 2.2%, well below the national average of 3.8%. The report underscores the confidence of tech professionals in their ability to negotiate for desired benefits and salaries, especially those skilled in high-demand areas and popular tech roles.

One crucial aspect identified in the report is the importance of work-life balance and flexibility to tech professionals. Work-life balance remains a critical factor in their job decisions, and many tech professionals feel it has not improved over the past year. This could be linked to companies' efforts to bring employees back to the office. While a substantial number of tech professionals are content with their current remote working arrangements, remote work options remain vital for many when considering future job opportunities.

The report also highlights the significance of employer transparency, particularly in terms of salary disclosure. A lack of salary transparency is seen as a signal that a company is not committed to pay equity. Additionally, an employer's brand and reputation play a crucial role in tech professionals' decisions to work for a particular organization. Company culture and corporate reputation are vital components of an employer's brand.

The report advises companies to adapt to evolving expectations, prioritize strong candidate experiences, and be mindful of the desires of tech professionals in a competitive job market. These findings provide valuable insights into the attitudes and expectations of tech professionals, offering guidance for recruiters and HR professionals as they seek to attract, hire, and retain top talent in the tech industry.

The Tech Sentiment Report was based on surveys conducted in Q2 and Q3 of 2023, capturing the sentiments of both tech professionals and human resources professionals involved in tech talent recruitment. Dice, a leading tech career hub, is part of DHI Group, Inc., which provides AI-powered career marketplaces focusing on technology roles.

Overall, the report underscores the dynamic nature of the tech industry and the evolving expectations of tech professionals, offering valuable insights for businesses operating in this sector. As the tech landscape continues to change, understanding the sentiments of tech professionals is vital for both attracting and retaining top talent.