Shifting priorities in Serbia’s IT sector: From team atmosphere to career growth and fair pay
An analysis of over 2,000 reviews from IT professionals on HelloWorld.rs reveals a significant shift in workplace experiences over the past year. Previously, the main complaints focused on inefficient communication and lack of benefits. Now, criticism centers on authoritarian leadership, unclear career paths, poor internal communication, and underdeveloped HR practices.
Negative feedback increasingly highlights dissatisfaction with management and organizational structure, with common phrases including “managerial style,” “no feedback,” and “it is not known who is doing what.”
In contrast, positive reviews from the previous year often praised a good team environment, a pleasant atmosphere, and flexible working conditions, using terms like “super team,” “excellent cooperation,” and “work without stress.” Remote work was particularly valued.
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Shift towards material and development priorities
Over the last year, material and professional development factors have gained prominence. Employees now focus more on above-average salaries, bonus systems, education budgets, and opportunities to work with modern technologies.
Comparing May 2024–May 2025 to the prior year, it’s clear that the emphasis on workplace atmosphere has declined, while attention to fair pay, benefits, and clear career development has increased.
For IT professionals, fair wages, challenging technical projects, and transparent growth paths outweigh atmosphere alone.
Management under scrutiny
Employees frequently criticize management for a lack of transparency in decision-making, promotions, and organizational changes. While team spirit remains important, trust in leadership, fairness, and personal growth opportunities are seen as critical factors.
Software Developers tend to have the most positive impressions, whereas Help Desk and IT Support staff rate their work environment lower, often citing poor conditions and unsupportive management.
Salary trends
Junior IT employees see salary stagnation, averaging 979 euros monthly. However, salaries for mid-level and senior staff are rising—medior positions increased from 1,584 to 1,683 euros, and senior roles from 2,267 to 2,367 euros. This indicates companies are investing more in experienced personnel while being cautious about junior- level hires.
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