Economic uncertainty, foreign competition, and the rapid development of artificial intelligence are seen as the three biggest threats facing IT professionals in Poland today. As many as 35% are considering changing jobs in the coming months, and one in four fears that their duties could be taken over by AI. Despite these concerns, IT specialists remain confident in their skills and increasingly expect from employers not only job security but also real opportunities for growth.
More than one-third of IT specialists in Poland want to change jobs within the next six months. One in five (21%) fears losing their current position, and as many as one in three (33%) have participated in recruitment processes in the past half-year. The greatest risks to their careers are seen in economic instability (35%), cheaper competition from abroad (25%), and the danger of being replaced by AI and new technologies (23%).
“The IT market is gradually normalizing. It remains relatively strong, especially in areas such as data science and AI, but companies are creating new positions more cautiously and are more selective in choosing candidates. This creates fear of job loss, driven by rising competition, pressure on efficiency, and uncertainties linked to automation,” says Adam Jakubowski, manager and IT labor market expert at Experis.
“AI will have the strongest impact on IT roles based on routine and repetitive tasks. The most vulnerable are manual testers, junior developers of popular languages, first-line helpdesk staff, simple website creators, and junior analysts in data and reporting — areas quickly taken over by new technologies. Lower risk applies to roles requiring system architecture, integration, big data, cybersecurity, AI/ML, and creative problem-solving, where AI serves more as support than replacement. To avoid being replaced by artificial intelligence, continuous learning and development are key, with emphasis on soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving — competencies that are very difficult to automate. An additional safeguard is business awareness — understanding how one’s work affects costs, revenues, and customer satisfaction — as well as specialization in niche but critical technologies,” Jakubowski adds.
Half of IT Specialists Work Under Pressure
Nearly half of IT professionals (49%) face high levels of stress in their daily work. A lack of work-life balance is another concern, reported by almost one in four respondents (23%). Additionally, nearly half feel bored with their tasks (49%) or underappreciated at work (45%). The lack of flexibility also weighs on employees, with 42% complaining about rigid schedules.
Despite these burdens, most IT specialists still find meaning and purpose in their work, with as many as 80% indicating this. Furthermore, 83% emphasize that their personal values are aligned with their company’s organizational culture.
According to Jakubowski, high stress in the IT industry stems from the media buzz around AI, the pressure of implementing it within organizations, and the normalization of a market that, after years of dynamic growth, is becoming more demanding and competitive.
“Despite the pressure, IT employees continue to see meaning in their work, as their actions directly influence business growth and innovation. Strong identification with company values comes from organizational cultures that emphasize mission and goals, giving employees a sense of contributing to something important — not just performing technical tasks,” the Experis representative adds.
Confident in Their Skills, Seeking Growth Opportunities
An overwhelming 96% of IT employees believe they have the right experience and skills to perform their duties effectively. However, nearly one-third (29%) see no opportunity for development or promotion with their current employer. The study also shows that 78% feel confident using the latest technologies, and the same share (78%) believe their company provides sufficient opportunities to gain the experience needed to meet career goals. Half (53%) have been promoted within the past six months, and 63% are satisfied with their salaries.
“The most important factor in retaining IT talent is competence development — training and access to new technologies. At the same time, companies should prioritize transparent communication, a culture of open feedback, and consistency between words and actions. Such authenticity builds trust, reduces frustration, and limits turnover, even in times of market uncertainty,” Jakubowski summarizes.
The ManpowerGroup “Global Talent Barometer 2025” survey was conducted between March 14 and April 11, 2025, covering more than 13,000 employees across 19 countries worldwide, including nearly 500 respondents from Poland.
Source: CEO.com.pl
