Significant bumps in salary (across most spectrum's, not just programming: BA's, PM's, etc.) typically occurs when leaving for another company, not staying with

Significant bumps in salary (across most spectrum's, not just programming: BA's, PM's, etc.) typically occurs when leaving for another company, not staying with the firm for small percentage increases over 5-10 years. The programmers I found making the least amount who "seemed" to be as or more competent ($85k vs $110k as an example) normally were at large shops for 7-15 years. However, a few years of experience at a large shop can facilitate that jump. Related discussion on negotiation / salaries: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=2201407 http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=2201407