[RickJWagner]

Having been a professional programmer for 29 years now, it's been my experience that the single biggest factor is the company you choose to work for.

Find a company that's rapidly growing, has a good product base and rising revenues. In such an environment pay raises are not infrequent and surprise bonuses might come your way. Opportunities for advancement also present themselves.

The alternative-- a stagnant company or a shrinking one-- instead offer layoffs, pay/benefit reductions, and constant worries.

Look for the right company! It's worth it.

Good luck.