Why this Bengaluru techie is willing to work for free? 'Burn my resume but please help'

A Bengaluru-based software engineer has made a desperate plea for employment after struggling for almost two years to secure a full-time job. The 2023 graduate turned to Reddit, sharing his situation and even offering to work for free in a bid to gain experience. In a post titled "Burn my resume but please help," the techie, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Science and Engineering, revealed his ongoing job hunt.

"Hey everyone, I'm a 2023 graduate with a BE in Information Science and Engineering, and I'm currently struggling to land a job," he wrote while sharing a redacted version of his resume. His qualifications highlight expertise in Python, Java, DevOps, cloud computing, and machine learning, along with experience in building web crawlers, integrating APIs, and developing AI models.

Willing to Work for Free

Describing his situation, he wrote, "At this point, I am willing to work remotely, for free." He added that while he preferred remote work due to personal reasons, he was open to relocating. "Remote because my uncle had an accident, eight rib fractures, so I need to be here but I can relocate too. Remote is a preference," he explained.



The post quickly gained traction, drawing responses from people willing to help. Some users asked for his CV to connect him with job opportunities, while others provided career advice. "Bro, email me your CV. I work in a hiring firm," one user commented. Another offered a potential opportunity, saying, "We can offer you WFH/Hybrid." Many others wished him success in his job search.

Challenges in Current Job Market

The post has highlighted the difficulties faced by fresh graduates, particularly in the current tech job market. The industry has seen a downturn, with hiring freezes and reduced recruitment efforts, especially for entry-level positions. Factors such as global economic uncertainties, changes in client spending, and the rise of automation and artificial intelligence have contributed to these challenges.

The techie’s struggle is not an isolated case. Recently, a 32-year-old woman who had been job-hunting for months quit her childcare job within 10 minutes, overwhelmed by the chaotic environment of "screaming babies." Despite her lengthy search, she realized instantly that the job was not the right fit for her. Her story underscores the broader issue of job seekers struggling to find suitable roles, sometimes leading them to consider positions that may not align with their skills or interests.