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Discussion on: 101 Tips to Make You a Better Developer

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xzirezhs profile image
Xzirez • Edited

The main issue i have as a new developer is that the tools we use for creating applications are ever changing and the demands to know these tools ever increasing. When i first started applying i only knew React and some java from school. I got to interviews and was asked about all these terms i had no clue about. I would usually say "i can learn them quick", but more often then not the employer wants someone who has demonstrated ability to deliver in the way they want to deliver.

This is where the issue lies. There is no job focusing on knowing how to code, but rather how to develop a product. The tools the employer ask for does not take me long to learn, but they are not willing to invest into the learning curve. It creates developer with sole purpose of meeting the status quo of modern development. There is no focus on quality, but rather if you check all the boxes needed.

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codemouse92 profile image
Jason C. McDonald • Edited

P.S. That situation doesn't improve with seniority. HR folks and recruiters are infamously blind in this regard. There's a reason there are jokes about "Carpenter wanted, must have 5+ years experience with Black & Decker TZR-765 Circular Saw".

Focus on the underlying skills and, yes, on delivering software. The artificial talent shortage in the industry harms us all, but if you have the platform-agnostic skills and track record for delivering software in your chosen sector, you'll be a good candidate for the job openings that existing humans actually qualify for.

In other words, nevermind the thousands of closed doors that wouldn't even consider Torvalds, van Rossum, Knuth, or Stroustrup to be qualified; focus on the dozens that have reasonable expectations. There are new such opportunities all the time. You'll find something eventually if you keep at it.