In a recent survey, one third of Russians employed in IT roles—about 34%—indicated that staying with a single employer for up to five years is the optimal horizon. The findings come from a joint study conducted by Jet Infosystems and hh.ru, with results summarized by socialbites.ca. The data offer a window into long-term employment intentions within Russia’s tech sector and the factors that shape loyalty and turnover among IT professionals.
The study reveals that only 15% of IT workers have already spent three to five years with their current company. A quarter of respondents, 23%, see potential longevity of up to three years, while 10% envision ten years or more in the same role or organization. The least common response was a one-year tenure, chosen by just 2% of participants. These figures illuminate a spectrum of commitment, underscoring that many professionals weigh a mix of career progression, project appeal, and workplace conditions before extending their tenure.
When it comes to what keeps professionals around, the strongest drivers are clear: opportunities for career growth and earnings advancement, cited by more than half of respondents (over 51%). Equally influential are the presence of engaging tasks and projects (41%), a healthy work-life balance (38%), a positive team atmosphere (38%), steady salary payments and bonuses (33%), and access to training and further education funded by the employer (24%). Less impactful, but still noted, are a competitive social package (7%) and an engaging corporate life (4%).
The study also highlights how leadership matters. A notable 68% of respondents said the personality and competencies of the team leader strongly affect their willingness to switch employers. This sentiment is especially pronounced among product managers (38%) and technical support specialists (30%), indicating leadership quality as a practical lever for talent retention in these roles.
Furthermore, 57% of participants believe that being recognized for their achievements fosters longer tenure and stronger commitment to an employer. Recognition appears to be a meaningful signal of value, contributing to retention beyond monetary factors alone.
Analysts note a broader takeaway: the stereotype that IT professionals are solely motivated by salary does not align with the survey results. Long-term employment depends on a mosaic of factors. Beyond compensation, interesting and purposeful projects, a supportive team climate, and competent, appreciative management all shape decisions about staying with a company. In practice, this means social benefits, while desirable, do not in themselves guarantee retention, as many workers encounter similar conditions when considering a job change. The real differentiators are purposeful work, investment in skills, and the overall workplace culture that makes a person feel valued and challenged.
In Russia, IT experts have repeatedly pushed back against common stereotypes about the profession, emphasizing the importance of meaningful work, mentorship, and a sense of belonging within teams. These insights come from the consolidated findings of Jet Infosystems, hh.ru, and the evaluative lens of socialbites.ca, reflecting a nuanced picture of career planning and loyalty in today’s tech landscape.