Reality Check: Is ₹50 LPA with 5 Years’ Experience in Tech Fact or Fiction? Reddit Sparks Heated Debate

A viral Reddit post has ignited a fiery debate across India’s tech community, questioning whether mid-level professionals with five years of experience can realistically command ₹50 lakh per annum (LPA) salaries. The discussion, which originated from a hiring manager at a product-based multinational company, has drawn responses from recruiters, developers, and data scientists, all weighing in on whether such compensation is market-aligned or inflated by online hype.

 

The post, titled “50 LPA for less than 5 years of exp. No strong resume, Service based Work history,” has become a lightning rod for broader concerns about salary expectations, skill gaps, and the influence of social media on career aspirations.

 

Key Highlights from the Reddit Debate

 

A senior tech professional reported that candidates with routine analytics experience and no standout achievements were demanding ₹50 LPA.

 

Most applicants came from service or consulting firms, lacking exposure to top-tier product companies or niche technologies.

 

The post questioned whether LinkedIn success stories and startup salary anecdotes were skewing expectations.

 

Reddit users responded with mixed views, some citing justified high pay for exceptional talent, others calling it a bubble.

 

The Salary Surge: What’s Driving Expectations

 

GenAI and Data Science Boom

 

Fields like generative AI, machine learning, and data engineering have seen explosive growth, pushing salary benchmarks higher.

 

Startups and product-led companies are offering aggressive packages to attract rare talent, fueling aspirational figures.

 

Social Media Influence

 

Platforms like LinkedIn and X are flooded with posts celebrating massive hikes, IPO windfalls, and startup exits.

 

These stories, while real for a select few, often lack context—such as equity components, location-based adjustments, or prior experience.

 

Misalignment with Market Reality

 

Hiring managers report that many candidates lack depth in core skills, such as algorithmic thinking, system design, or domain expertise.

 

Routine project experience, especially in service firms, may not justify premium compensation unless paired with innovation or impact.

 

What Justifies a ₹50 LPA Package

 

Proven expertise in niche domains like GenAI, cybersecurity, or cloud architecture.

 

Demonstrated impact through published research, open-source contributions, or product ownership.

 

Strong communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

 

Experience in high-growth startups or global product companies with complex tech stacks.

 

Industry Voices and Hiring Trends

 

Recruiters note that while ₹50 LPA is achievable, it’s typically reserved for top 5–10 percent of mid-level talent.

 

Companies are increasingly using rigorous screening processes to filter hype from substance.

 

Some hiring managers argue that inflated expectations are leading to longer hiring cycles and mismatched interviews.

 

Advice for Aspiring Candidates

 

Focus on building depth in one or two technical areas rather than chasing trends.

 

Showcase measurable impact—whether through metrics, user growth, or cost savings.

 

Stay grounded in market research and avoid benchmarking solely through anecdotal posts.

 

Invest in continuous learning and certifications to stay competitive.

 

Conclusion

 

The ₹50 LPA debate reveals a growing tension between aspiration and reality in India’s tech job market. While exceptional professionals can command top-tier salaries, the majority must align expectations with skill, experience, and market demand. As the industry evolves, transparency, self-awareness, and strategic career planning will be key to navigating the hype and finding genuine growth.

 

Sources: The Economic Times, India Today