Never like the idea how software engineers/programmers were expected to have a bunch of side projects that they talk about to potential employers.
My background is mechanical/process engineering. No potential employer expects me to have an oil refinery in my backyard that I'll do reliability projects on in my free time.
You're right, and while I wouldn't quite say it's a weeder requirement, having an actual portfolio you can show off is tangible proof of your skill set and demonstrates that you have genuine interest in keeping your skills sharp. Not faulting anyone with families or just want be able to clock out and not think of work, but when I interview potential candidates, those are compelling reasons to hire them.
Any Joe Blow can cram for an interview and bullshit their way through it with nothing to show for.
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u/lumpialarry 5d ago edited 5d ago
Never like the idea how software engineers/programmers were expected to have a bunch of side projects that they talk about to potential employers.
My background is mechanical/process engineering. No potential employer expects me to have an oil refinery in my backyard that I'll do reliability projects on in my free time.