Every generation has a way of thinking their problems are unique and that they have somehow been handed the wrong end of the stick. Most times, it is a cliche. But sometimes, it captures a rare moment that we are only beginning to understand.

Ask a young software engineer at an IT services firm today, this reality hits deep. The thing is there is a general sense of dread in the air. Only compounded by the constant noise about automation and AI taking away entry-level jobs. Add tariff uncertainties, clients tightening budgets, and the ultimate existential threat posed by AI…and you get an industry under pressure from every direction.

Today, you enter an organisation with expectations and land up in a reality you didn’t sign up for. No incentives. No challenges. You don’t know if you stand out, or if your work matters. Forget a plan for life. You don’t know what’s going to happen in the next six months.We are giving this feeling a name: The ‘Hope Gap’.

When this gap arises, people complain about not feeling ambitious or motivated. And the worst part is that nobody is telling them what to do to regain that hope again.What’s the solution? An IT services veteran and two open source contributors tell us.

Their approaches are different but have takeaways for all.

Tune in!

Have thoughts about this episode? We would love to hear from you! Write to Rahel ([email protected]) or Vidhatri ([email protected]).

Credits:
Written and produced by Rahel Philipose, Vidhatri Rao
Edited by Rajiv CN

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