[ironlake]

My experience with over 25 years as a software developer is that the best way to optimize for salary is to switch companies every 3-7 years. There are risks. You either accept the risks or accept that you're not making as much as you could be.

I once worked for a company that had hired mostly people straight out of college. When the company faltered, they started looking for new jobs and were shocked at how much they were underpaid for their positions. But the company had a cool culture so it never occurred to them to test the market.

I almost never switch jobs for money, and for much of my career I've been underpaid. Which is OK. I have other priorities and accept it.

Even so, I'm on my 5th job in 25 years and my current position is the one I've held for the longest.