04 October 2024 -

min

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How to make +$10k a month as a developer in the EU?

Ever thought $10K a month was only possible for devs in the US? Think again! 🌍✨ Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your earnings right here in the EU with practical tips and real-life insights.
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How to Make Over $10K a Month as a Developer in the EU


Have you ever wondered why it seems like all the big developer salaries are exclusive to the US? It’s a common myth, but let’s debunk it together. While it’s true that US junior devs can start around $80K a year, with top professionals hitting between $200K to $300K, and some even reaching the million-dollar mark, there’s no reason we in the EU can’t aim for similar heights.


From my own experience, I’ve seen graduates fresh out of coding bootcamps in the U.S. land jobs with salaries that seem out of reach for many seasoned developers in Europe.


But here’s the thing: European developers are just as talented and capable. The salary gap isn’t a reflection of skill but often of mindset and opportunity. In this blog post, I’ll share insights and strategies on how you, as a developer in the EU, can break past the norms and start earning over $10,000 a month.


The Problem: The Salary Gap Between U.S. and EU Developers


There’s no denying the salary disparity between developers in the U.S. and those in the EU. Several factors contribute to this gap:


  • Mindset and Expectations: Many EU developers accept lower salaries, believing it’s the norm or that higher-paying opportunities simply don’t exist in their region. This mindset can limit their potential.

  • Contentment with “Decent” Salaries: Earning $3,000 to $7,000 a month is considered decent in many parts of Europe. While it’s a comfortable income, it might prevent developers from aiming higher and exploring opportunities that could significantly boost their earnings.

  • Language Barriers: Communication plays a crucial role in the tech industry. U.S. companies sometimes hesitate to hire developers from the EU due to concerns over language barriers, which can complicate collaboration and project management.

  • Legal Complexities of Hiring: U.S. firms often face significant challenges in navigating the legalities of employing international talent. Issues like visa restrictions and understanding employment laws abroad can deter companies from hiring outside their borders, thereby inflating salaries domestically as they try to attract and retain stateside talent.


The Implications of Settling for Less


Sticking to the “safe” salary range has its drawbacks:


• Financial Limitations: Accepting lower salaries can delay or hinder personal financial goals like buying a home, starting a business, or investing in personal development.

• Feeling Undervalued: Knowing that counterparts in the U.S. earn significantly more can lead to dissatisfaction and a sense of being undervalued.

• Risk of Obsolescence: The tech industry evolves rapidly. Developers who stay in their comfort zones risk becoming outdated, especially with advancements in areas like AI and automation.


The Solution: A Roadmap to Earning Over $10K a Month


Over the past nine years, I’ve been deeply embedded in the European tech landscape, working closely with countless developers. Through my roles in hiring and screening—dealing with hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of developers—I’ve gained a firsthand view of how the market across Europe has shifted and grown. Despite this growth, it’s clear that many talented developers still struggle to hit that elusive $10K a month mark.


This recurring issue prompted me to pull together some best practices—approaches that I’ve personally used and recommended to step up your game. The goal here isn’t just to give you a list of suggestions to ponder over; it’s about setting you up with actionable steps that, when followed, are designed to deliver impressive results. No more guesswork or worrying about what to do next. Just focus on these strategies, put them into practice, and watch as your career transforms, pushing your earnings to new heights.


1. Master In-Demand Skills


  • Stay Ahead of Trends: Focus on learning and mastering technologies that are in high demand. Currently, fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, and advanced Python development are hot.

  • Early Adoption Pays Off: Developers who adapt early to emerging technologies often command higher salaries due to their specialized expertise.

  • Continuous Learning: The tech landscape changes quickly. Commit to lifelong learning to keep your skills relevant and valuable.


2. Embrace Freelancing and Remote Work


  • Global Opportunities: Freelancing opens doors to international clients willing to pay top dollar for quality work, regardless of your location.

  • Flexibility and Autonomy: Freelancers can choose projects that interest them and negotiate rates that reflect their worth.

  • Leverage Remote Roles: Many companies, especially post-pandemic, are open to remote workers. This can level the playing field for EU developers seeking U.S.-level salaries.


But how do I get the best freelance gigs in great companies? Here is the answer👇🏻


3. Build and Leverage Your Network


• Share Your Journey: Start blogging, tweeting, or posting on LinkedIn about your learning experiences and projects.

• Attend Industry Events: Networking at conferences and meetups can lead to valuable connections and hidden job opportunities.

• Be Authentic: Rather than aggressively pitching yourself, let your work and knowledge-sharing attract opportunities. Let me repeat it! Don't ask people to hire you or send them a CV in the first message. Your actions should prove you are a great developer first. Here is how:


4. Showcase Your Work and Projects


  • Create a Strong Portfolio: Contribute to open-source projects, build your own apps, or engage in indie hacking.

  • Utilize Platforms for Visibility: Platforms like GitHub not only showcase your code but also increase your visibility to potential employers and collaborators.

  • Invest in Yourself: Allocate resources—time and money—towards personal growth, whether through courses, certifications, or attending industry events. So far, I've spent $1M on my R&D project. So don't be shy about overspending on it.


5. Cultivate the Right Mindset


  • Be Open to Feedback: Constructive criticism is a pathway to improvement. Embrace it to refine your skills. Read books or get a coach to help with you understand this better.

  • Seek Growth Environments: Work with teams and companies that challenge you and push you to excel, even if it means starting at a lower salary.

  • Improve Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is crucial, especially in remote and international settings.

  • Foster Collaboration: Being a team player who is easy to work with makes you more valuable and opens more doors. - We let go of more people who were just "not nice" and didn't have skills.


Get what You Want


Now is the time to take action:


  • Start Today: Begin implementing these strategies without overthinking.

  • Set Clear Goals: Outline your financial and professional objectives and create a plan to achieve them.

  • Stay Passionate: Genuine enthusiasm for your work will sustain you through challenges and make you stand out.

  • Don’t Fear Freelancing: While it may seem risky, freelancing offers a straightforward path to higher earnings compared to starting your own company or other ventures.


Remember, success in this industry is a marathon, not a sprint. Continuous growth, adaptation, and a proactive approach to your career will position you to earn top-tier salaries.


Why Should You Listen to Me?


I’ve walked this path myself:


  • I and many others Did this: I’ve achieved earnings of $30,000 per month as a developer and have run development agencies hiring talent across Europe.

  • Industry Insight: Over the past eight years, I’ve witnessed the market evolve and understand what it takes to succeed today.

  • Extensive Experience: I’ve screened thousands of resumes and hired over 300 developers. This experience has given me a keen eye for what sets high earners apart.

  • Network of High Achievers: I have friends and colleagues who are thriving in high-paying roles, enjoying financial freedom, and investing in their futures.


Final Thoughts


Earning over $10,000 a month as a developer in the EU is not just a dream—it’s an achievable goal. By mastering in-demand skills, embracing freelancing and remote work, building a strong network, showcasing your work, and cultivating the right mindset, you can bridge the salary gap.


Passion and perseverance are your allies on this journey. If you’re genuinely excited about your work and committed to continuous improvement, the sky’s the limit.


I’m here to help. If you have questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out to me on social media.


Let’s move forward and redefine what’s possible for developers in the EU.

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