Spiceworks Community Digest: The elusive forever job
Today, the idea of a “forever job” can seem like a fever dream, especially in IT where the job market is in a constant state of uncertainty. With recent waves of layoffs and a shifting landscape that includes everything from AI automation to the rise of the gig economy, the traditional path of a stable career at a single company has become incredibly rare. Yet, for many, it remains the ultimate career goal: a place you can call home until you retire.
This is one of many current discussions happening on the Spiceworks Community. CharlesHTN celebrates a decade at a government job that comes with a pension, which is very rare in the United States nowadays. They believe it’s their “forever job” because they enjoy the work, and the security feels too valuable to leave. But is their experience the norm? The community’s replies show a mix of hope, reality, and some skepticism regarding a “forever job”.
Some users proudly reported 15, 23, or even 25 years at a single company, expressing their gratitude for a stable job and some pretty awesome benefits. However, the majority of replies shared a different kind of wisdom, often learned the hard way. Many users shared stories of being laid off or made redundant after a decade or more at a company they thought they would retire from. SHNOOL noted, “No business is dedicated to you… As soon as you are out of alignment with them, even the most stable of positions can become quite uncomfortable.” Others mentioned the fear of age discrimination, which makes finding a new job at 50 or 60 a difficult challenge, forcing them to stay at a job they don’t love.
The “Why” Goes Beyond the Paycheck
Beyond job security, the discussion brought up other powerful motivators for staying put. Many are content with a job that offers WFH flexibility, helps them manage a health condition, or provides stability so they can focus on what truly matters to them outside of work, whether it’s family or a hobby. For them, a job isn’t about climbing a ladder, but about providing a comfortable and sustainable life.
Sign up for the Spiceworks Community to read the full discussion and share your own story. Whether you’re a lifer, a job hopper, or just running out the clock, your experience is a valuable part of this conversation.
