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What have you developed in your spare time?

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Re: What have you developed in your spare time?

#2

Post by mrcharles »

I take issue with this article because it would come across to me as a red flag about work-life balance. That an employer would expect you to be doing something programming related in your spare time comes across as a bit self-serving.

Instead, I would ask "What would you like to develop in your spare time, if you had any?" That way they can answer the same as his question if they are working on stuff, but can still show interest in programming otherwise.

Frankly, yeah, it can be hard to stay on top of things, and companies that don't foster learning and expect you to do it all on your own time don't help.

Re: What have you developed in your spare time?

#5

Post by synnik »

mrcharles wrote: post #2

I take issue with this article because it would come across to me as a red flag about work-life balance. That an employer would expect you to be doing something programming related in your spare time comes across as a bit self-serving. Instead, I would ask "What would you like to develop in your spare time, if you had any?" That way they can answer the same as his question if they are working on stuff, but can still…

It is always dangerous to assume what answers are desired by an interviewer. Interviews are not just to get the job - it is to determine whether or not you would even want the job in the first place.

So in this particular case, I would answer something about how I have taught my kids multiple languages, taught them kung fu, helped them to develop their own hobbies and become their own people, while at the same time working with local non-profits on renewable energy technologies.

If they do not like that answer and would have preferred a list of open source/weekend projects, it is probably not a place I would have fit in anyway.

Re: What have you developed in your spare time?

#6

Post by Shenglong »

mrcharles wrote: post #2

I take issue with this article because it would come across to me as a red flag about work-life balance. That an employer would expect you to be doing something programming related in your spare time comes across as a bit self-serving. Instead, I would ask "What would you like to develop in your spare time, if you had any?" That way they can answer the same as his question if they are working on stuff, but can still…

From an employer perspective, they're trying to gauge drive and interest. While these questions may not be completely fair, and will exclude a lot of competent people, it is a decently good way to measure what they're looking for. I suppose, it's just a sad situation.

Re: What have you developed in your spare time?

#8

Post by agentultra »

My passion for programming ebbs and flows. For months at a time I may work all day on one thing and come home and hack on an idea I had for serializing continuations. At other times I will instead focus on art, music, or just having fun.

However, everyone is different. I think having written and shared at least a small utility or library is a good indicator to me, I wouldn't discount someone because they had not written programs or libraries in their spare time. Especially if they come recommended and have a good work history.

I find all too often that interviews are just about impressing the interviewer. Everyone has their own idea of what makes a good programmer. When they sit across the table from a candidate I think many interviewers are looking for people that fit that mould.

edit: glaring spelling error

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