The next article is a visitor publish and opinion of Yurii Kovalchuk, Senior Blockchain Engineer at Forte Group
Three and a half years in the past, I decided that fully modified the trajectory of my profession. I left the acquainted world of Web2 and stepped into the deep, chaotic, and exhilarating area of blockchain growth.
It wasn’t an apparent transfer. I wasn’t chasing pump or in a single day success. I used to be trying to find which means – for know-how that aligned with my values, challenged my considering, and gave me a motive to maintain constructing.
Since then, I haven’t seemed again. Web3 turned greater than a job – it turned the lens by means of which I now see the way forward for the web.
On this piece, I need to share why I made the leap, what I’ve discovered from it, and the way different builders can method the swap with readability and intention.
What to Count on from Web3
Versatile Compensation & Excessive-Stakes Incentives
One of many first issues that stood out to me when switching to Web3 was how completely different – and infrequently extra rewarding – the compensation construction is in comparison with conventional tech.
As a substitute of mounted salaries and HR paperwork, Web3 initiatives usually provide a mixture of stablecoin funds, on-chain invoices, and token-based incentives. In lots of circumstances, you’re paid on to your pockets. Typically it’s a clear bill; different occasions, it’s a hybrid mannequin.
Then there are the tokens.
Very like fairness in startups, venture tokens offer you a stake within the product you’re constructing. If the venture succeeds, so do you. That provides a layer of motivation that’s exhausting to copy in Web2. However after all, tokens may also drop in worth simply as quick – market volatility is actual, and so are the dangers.
That mentioned, the upside potential is commonly a lot higher. Based mostly alone expertise, senior-level Web3 engineers usually earn greater than conventional tech leads – particularly when combining base comp with token incentives.
Nonetheless, there’s a tradeoff: stability.
Web3 strikes quick. Initiatives pivot, funding shifts, markets crash and rally. It’s not the place to only “journey the paycheck.” However for those who’re comfy with change, the flexibleness and upside will be price each little bit of the chaos.
True Distant, Not Only a Perk
Whereas conventional firms slowly nudge workers again into places of work, Web3 by no means left distant. Distributed groups aren’t a development right here – they’re the default.
For a lot of, meaning the liberty to work from anyplace, set your personal rhythm, and construction your life round extra than simply work hours. It’s not “remote-friendly,” it’s remote-native – constructed into the DNA of how the trade operates.
One other standout characteristic? Anonymity is commonly the norm. In lots of initiatives, you’re not requested for authorized names or private paperwork. Funds go straight to your pockets, and that’s it. Particularly in roles like good contract auditing or white-hat safety, contributors usually stay pseudonymous. On my present venture, I don’t know the true names of most teammates – some use voice changers throughout calls, and I’ve no clue the place they reside.
In fact, for those who’re somebody who thrives on in-person collaboration, Web3 may really feel isolating. Workplaces are uncommon. Bodily meetups are occasional, not anticipated. The tradition is constructed round async communication and autonomy.
But when independence, flexibility, and privateness are excessive in your checklist, Web3 delivers that in full.
A Completely different Improvement Mindset
Web3 isn’t only a new trade – it’s a brand new paradigm. It’s an area the place cutting-edge concepts are shaping the way forward for cryptography, distributed programs, decentralization, and consensus algorithms. And since the principles haven’t been absolutely written but, conventional growth approaches usually don’t apply.
This can be a world the place experimentation isn’t non-obligatory – it’s anticipated. Many core instruments are nonetheless evolving. Languages like Solidity are comparatively younger, with frameworks that will not also have a secure model but.
In case you’re the form of developer who thrives on studying, tinkering, and constructing in uncharted territory, Web3 is the right atmosphere. It’s messy, thrilling, and stuffed with alternative.
However it additionally calls for agility and a excessive tolerance for change. In case you’re searching for predictability, legacy instruments, or clearly outlined roadmaps, Web3 may check your endurance. Right here, adaptability is a talent simply as necessary as writing good code.
Open Supply on the Core
In Web3, transparency isn’t only a nice-to-have – it’s the inspiration. Round 80-90% of all code written for blockchain initiatives is open-source by default. Meaning anybody can dive right into a protocol’s logic, discover its mechanics, and even begin contributing instantly.
However this openness isn’t nearly collaboration. It’s additionally a trust-building mechanism. In an trade the place scams and rug pulls nonetheless exist, popularity is every part – and publishing your code is without doubt one of the clearest indicators of integrity.
Open code invitations scrutiny. It encourages group contributions. It allows public, zero-cost code critiques that may assist you to catch minor points lengthy earlier than a proper audit.
If open-source has ever felt like greater than a facet venture to you – for those who see it as a philosophy or a craft – Web3 offers you the area to reside that out absolutely. It’s a uncommon place the place constructing in public isn’t simply inspired – it’s anticipated.
Regulation Is Catching Up
Regardless of its speedy progress, Web3 nonetheless operates in a panorama of authorized uncertainty.
Regulation varies wildly from nation to nation – whereas the EU has launched clear frameworks like MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Property), different areas nonetheless deal with crypto as a authorized grey zone.
That mentioned, we’re beginning to see actual momentum. Final yr marked a significant milestone with the approval of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs within the U.S., and 2025 is predicted to deliver related developments for different digital property.
Web3 comes with countless prospects, but in addition its justifiable share of challenges. It calls for adaptability, curiosity, and the willingness to develop by means of uncertainty.
So how do you make the leap from Web2 not simply clean, however profitable?
9 Tricks to Achieve Web3
Tip #1: Leverage Your Web2 Expertise
After I began engaged on my first Web3 venture – a blockchain-based provide chain answer constructed on Corda – my background in Kotlin and Java turned out to be an actual asset. Since Corda is a non-public blockchain, a lot of the infrastructure was acquainted. Much more necessary? The management abilities I had developed in my Web2 roles as a group lead.
When hiring builders for that venture, I wasn’t searching for deep information of good contracts or decentralized programs. What mattered most had been sturdy fundamentals: stable programming abilities, understanding of databases, and a grasp of networking ideas.
So for those who’re a JavaScript backend dev trying to break into Web3, one of the best transfer isn’t to pivot into one thing solely new like protocol engineering. As a substitute, discover a function that mirrors your present talent set inside a Web3 context. It’ll be a a lot smoother and extra sustainable transition.
Don’t attempt to change every part directly – that’s the quickest technique to lose each momentum and revenue. Consider it as a step-by-step evolution, not a full reset.
Tip #2: Grasp the Fundamentals – Languages, Tech, and System Design
Earlier than Web3, I used to be a die-hard JVM fan – Java, Kotlin, Groovy. I laughed at JavaScript memes and jokingly noticed .NET devs as a part of the “company darkish facet.”
However every part modified with my second Web3 venture – a crypto pockets asset administration system. One of many first hurdles? Studying to work with JavaScript and TypeScript libraries. The deeper I went into Web3, the extra I noticed that JavaScript – and more and more, Python – had been in every single place. Now, I take advantage of each nearly daily.
In case you’re getting ready to enter Web3, add these languages to your toolbox. They’re not solely important in blockchain, however broadly used throughout tech.
Simply as necessary: don’t neglect core applied sciences and system design. In a single hiring spherical, we selected a candidate with weaker Web3 information however stronger design considering and engineering fundamentals. Frameworks will be discovered. Stable engineering instincts take longer to construct – and matter extra in the long term.
On the finish of the day, what issues most is being an engineer who can remedy issues, whatever the stack. That mindset is your strongest asset – in Web3 or anyplace else.
Tip #3: Construct Sturdy Relationships — With Teammates and Managers
In tech circles, it’s not unusual to listen to builders throw shade at managers, calling them ineffective, blockers, or simply individuals who hold asking, “How’s that job coming alongside?”
That mindset normally comes with finger-pointing: the bug is QA’s fault, the deployment is on DevOps, the deadline stress is all on administration.
However over time, working as each an IC and a lead, I’ve discovered one thing easy however highly effective: success in any function begins with taking duty and constructing belief with everybody round you.
A few of my finest alternatives got here not from CVs, however relations. One engineering supervisor I labored effectively with put me on the radar for the venture I’m on at present. And as a lead, I’ve supplied flexibility and help to engineers I knew I may rely on, whether or not that meant a time off or area to work in their very own rhythm.
This isn’t about being good for the sake of it. It’s about mutual respect and shared accountability. Sturdy relationships make groups extra resilient and open doorways that abilities alone usually don’t.
In Web3, the place groups are distributed and fast-moving, relationship capital is actual capital. Put money into it early.
Tip #4: Take Initiative, Personal Your Work, and Share What You Know
This builds instantly on the earlier level – as a result of sturdy relationships thrive after they’re backed by motion, accountability, and a willingness to steer.
There’s an outdated saying that goes like “initiative will get punished,” however in my expertise, that solely occurs when somebody steps up with out following by means of. I’ve discovered a distinct rule: initiative will get rewarded.
All through my profession, I’ve launched inner workshops, hosted guilds, kicked off facet initiatives, and constructed group initiatives. As a rule, these efforts paid off – not simply in recognition, however in actual progress. For instance, my work on company studying packages laid the inspiration for my instructing function on the college.
In each venture I’ve labored on, those that take possession – the individuals who don’t wait to be advised what to do – are those who get promoted, earn bonuses, and get looped into high-impact work. I’ve even seen circumstances the place such individuals continued to obtain raises throughout company-wide freezes. And when exhausting calls needed to be made, like downsizing, they had been at all times final on the checklist. I say that not simply as a developer, however as somebody who’s needed to make these selections.
In Web3, the place the tempo is unstable and groups develop and shrink shortly, being proactive, dependable, and beneficiant along with your information is your finest job safety – and your quickest path to development.
It’s not nearly getting forward. It’s about turning into somebody others need to construct with, even when the street will get robust.
Tip #5: Construct Your Private Model
No, this doesn’t imply you could grow to be a full-time influencer or share your life on Instagram (until you need to). Constructing a private model isn’t about having one million followers. It’s about having a singular perspective, sharing it by means of public channels – on-line or offline – and making your experience seen.
In a aggressive market, your private model will be the sting that will get you seen. When recruiters or purchasers are selecting between candidates, they’re extra more likely to go along with somebody who speaks up, shares information, and brings one thing distinct to the desk.
Let’s be trustworthy: all of us need to work with cutting-edge tech, on thrilling initiatives, alongside top-tier individuals. A powerful private model helps put you on the radar for precisely these sorts of alternatives. It reveals you’re not simply clocking out and in – you’re curious, engaged, and never afraid to share what you’ve discovered.
Begin small. Publish often on LinkedIn. Share a lesson, a instrument you favored, or a technical perception. It’s sufficient to get going.
Not into tying your concepts to your actual title? That’s high-quality – particularly in Web3. Nameless accounts on X (previously Twitter) thrive within the dev and meme tradition. A number of the most influential voices on the market don’t also have a face hooked up. It’s not my path, nevertheless it’s a legitimate and highly effective one if it resonates with you.
And if you wish to take that visibility even additional – the following tip will turn out to be useful.
Tip #6: Observe Crypto Twitter (Severely)
Crypto Twitter (or “CT”) is the heartbeat of Web3. It’s the place the most recent traits, instruments, debates, and alternatives emerge – usually earlier than they make it to blogs, newsletters, or mainstream media.
To be blunt: for those who’re critical a couple of Web3 profession, being on X (previously Twitter) isn’t non-obligatory – it’s important.
I’ll admit, I used to miss it. The trolls, the anonymity, the Elon issue – all of it appeared like a buzz. However over time, I noticed one thing: CT is the place the sign is. Founders, builders, VCs, and core devs – together with Ethereum’s personal Vitalik Buterin – share their ideas and product drops right here first.
It’s not only a supply of alpha. It’s a spot to construct your model, develop your community, and unlock new alternatives. Proper now, I’m a part of Uniswap’s incubator program, and almost all communication for the cohort (120+ individuals from 50+ nations) occurs on X. Everybody there’s energetic, plugged in, and engaged.
Actually, many employers and hackathon organizers now ask to your Twitter deal with through the utility course of. And for those who’re planning to launch your personal venture? Your group begins on X. No traction there = no traction in any respect.
Tip #7: Be part of Hackathons
Hackathons are a cornerstone of Web3 tradition. Dozens occur each week – on-line and offline – with prize swimming pools that usually stretch into the lots of of hundreds of {dollars}. However the true worth isn’t simply within the money.
Many hackathons provide funding alternatives, grants, or incubator invitations for promising MVPs constructed through the occasion. It’s one of the crucial accessible methods to interrupt into Web3, particularly for those who’re simply beginning out.
You don’t must be a Solidity wizard to affix. Groups normally embrace backend devs, frontend builders, deploy wranglers, and somebody to deal with the pitch. Even college students or self-taught devs can contribute meaningfully. Each function counts. Past product hackathons, there are additionally safety contests and CTFs (Seize the Flag), the place the purpose is to interrupt issues earlier than they hit the mainnet. These challenges will pay extraordinarily effectively – just like the $2.35M bounty from the Uniswap v4 contest – and assist enhance the security of your entire ecosystem.
Personally, I’ve taken half in a number of hackathons. Not each venture was a winner, however the expertise was game-changing. I met collaborators, stepped into new roles, and discovered construct underneath stress. Hackathons aren’t simply occasions – they’re launchpads for careers, connections, and concepts that may change your life.
Tip #8: Contribute to Open Supply
As talked about earlier, 80–90% of Web3 code is open supply. And ultimately, your code will possible reside on-chain, absolutely seen to the world.
However past that, contributing to open supply is without doubt one of the finest methods to showcase your abilities, sign good intentions, and construct your popularity throughout the group.
It’s additionally a strong technique to get seen. On my present venture, just a few teammates began out merely submitting GitHub pull requests. Now, they’re full-time contributors.
One other underrated profit? It forces you to write down higher code. Understanding that different builders will learn, overview, and depend on your work raises the bar – and sharpens your craft.
If collaboration, transparency, and shared possession matter to you, Web3 is your playground. So begin small: touch upon points, suggest modifications, commit code to initiatives you admire. It’s not only a good expertise – in lots of circumstances, it’s your ticket into Web3.
Tip #9: Use AI to Supercharge Your Workflow
There was a time when utilizing AI instruments felt like dishonest, or at the least one thing to cover. Some builders ignored them. Others downplayed their usefulness.
However by 2025, that mindset is outdated. In case you’re nonetheless not utilizing AI in your workflow, it raises critical questions.
Ignoring AI at present is like refusing to write down checks or use a linter. And in an area like Web3, the place many of the code is open-source, instruments like GitHub Copilot and AI pair programmers have entry to large coaching units that may dramatically increase your output.
These instruments don’t simply assist you to write code. They velocity you up, scale back psychological load, and allow you to concentrate on actual problem-solving as a substitute of boilerplate. With the fitting setup, you actually can grow to be that “10x engineer” all of us used to joke about.
And we’re not stopping at autocomplete. In 2025, AI brokers are stepping in – good assistants that don’t simply generate code, however examine their very own work, analyze failures, automate duties throughout platforms, and even talk with teammates (or different brokers). They’re able to dealing with complicated workflows that used to require a number of individuals.
So don’t snooze on AI. Embrace it, combine it deeply, and let it amplify what you’re already nice at.
Ultimate Ideas
Transitioning from Web2 to Web3 isn’t nearly switching tech stacks – it’s a mindset shift. It means embracing uncertainty, staying adaptable, and turning into a part of a fast-moving, world group.
Web3 presents builders unprecedented freedom, innovation, and possession, nevertheless it additionally calls for steady studying, resilience, and a bias towards motion.
In case you’re able to take cost of your profession and lean into change, Web3 can take you additional than you imagined. The guidelines I’ve shared right here gained’t cowl each problem, however they’ll offer you a stable head begin.
Welcome to the frontier.
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