Job trends for software developers in the next 5 years:

[1] Most startups are starting to realize that they need to control profits, not just revenues. Many unicorns who were on track to their IPO had to delay their IPOs due to lack of profitability.

For software developers: This means that startups may be less likely to offer high salaries to attract new talent. However, it also means that startups are becoming more focused on profitability, which is a good thing for the industry in the long term.

[2] All smart CEOs have started to focus on their personal brands. This is evident on LinkedIn as well. People like to buy from people, not from companies. Therefore, almost every 'Shark' now feature on their own advertisement. Why? Personal brand.

Take a cue and start cultivating your personal brand as well.

For software developers: Building a personal brand is a great way to attract new job opportunities and build a following. You can do this by writing blog posts, creating videos, or speaking at industry events.

[3] Gone are the days when you could depend on 1 job. Firms are not loyal to you. And, any smart employee can see through this. If you are not building backups already, you are doing yourself a disservice. And, the volatile job market is might one day hit you badly.

For software developers: Software developers are in high demand, so they have more flexibility to take on multiple jobs. This can be a great way to increase income and diversify your skills. For example, you could work as a full-time software engineer and also freelance as a software developer on the side.

[4] Rise of remote jobs:

To cut the long story short, if work could be done from home, why would you waste your time, effort, energy travelling? Not every job fits into 'work from home' culture, but many do.

For software developers: Software development is a job that can easily be done remotely, so many companies are now offering remote positions. This can be a great benefit for software developers who want more flexibility in their work-life balance.

[5] With the rise of financial & career education, most people would prefer decent money + family time (OVER) crazy money + no time.

And owning small businesses is one way of fulfilling this goal.

For software developers: Starting a small business can be a great way for software developers to have more control over their work and earn more money. Some examples of small businesses that software developers can start include developing and selling software products, providing software consulting services, or freelancing as a software developer.

6] As more and more businesses move online, the demand for software developers will continue to grow. Software developers are responsible for building and maintaining the digital infrastructure that businesses need to operate in the digital age.

P.S. I am not an expert and these are speculations