
Tech Stacks That Are Killing Your Hiring Chances (And What Recruiters Are Actually Looking For) Not all tech stacks are created equal. Some can fast-track your career, while others might just be holding you back. If you're applying for jobs and getting ghosted, your tech stack might be part of the problem. Here’s what recruiters actually want to see—and what might be working against you. 1. The “Niche and Dying” Problem Ever built something in Perl? Still rocking ColdFusion? If your main experience is in older or super-niche technologies, you’re going to have a hard time finding roles that match. While legacy systems still need support, most companies are moving towards modern stacks.
✅ What to focus on: If you’re stuck with an outdated stack, start transitioning. Learn modern JavaScript (React, Node.js) or cloud-based architectures to stay relevant. 2. The “Bootcamp Syndrome” Stack Many bootcamps push the same MERN (MongoDB, Express, React, Node.js) stack. While it’s useful, the problem is oversaturation. Every junior dev knows it, which makes it harder to stand out.
✅ What to focus on: Expand your skill set. Add a typed language like Go, Rust, or Kotlin to your toolbox. Learn SQL and PostgreSQL instead of just NoSQL. Show that you can think beyond JavaScript. 3. The “One-Trick Pony” Stack Are you a WordPress-only or PHP-only developer? Specialization is great, but if you only know one ecosystem, your options are limited. Companies need engineers who can adapt.
✅ What to focus on: Learn additional frameworks or languages. If you love PHP, pick up Laravel or Symfony. If you work with WordPress, explore Headless CMS solutions. Adaptability wins. 4. The “Enterprise-Only” Stack If you’ve been working with proprietary enterprise tools (SAP, Oracle Forms, COBOL), transitioning to modern startups or product teams can be tough.
✅ What to focus on: Familiarize yourself with open-source alternatives. Learn cloud-based solutions like AWS, Docker, and Kubernetes. The more flexible you are, the better. Final Thoughts Your tech stack can make or break your job hunt. If you’re struggling to land interviews, take a hard look at your skills. The best devs aren’t just stuck in one stack—they evolve. Learn what’s in demand, stay flexible, and future-proof your career. 🚀