Programming Jobs...

[jdk0118]

If I was very proficient in c++, and I have some good references of
big open source projects I worked on, would my age matter as much for
a programming job>?
I am 17 years old..

Also, what is the best way to find programming jobs ?

[Victor Bazarov]

jd*****@gmail.com wrote:

If I was very proficient in c++, and I have some good references of
big open source projects I worked on, would my age matter as much for
a programming job>?
I am 17 years old..

Yes, absolutely. Maturity of thought matters more than proficiency in
any particular programming language or ability to compile references,
especially when team effort is concerned. And, yes, based on my
experience, I would have some prejudice, if not from reading your
resume, then right after we meet.

Responsibility is another important trait often overlooked *by younger
applicants*. Also, consider that one needs to show *accomplishments*,
not *participation*. When I sent off a student without a credit after
reviewing his/her incomplete or incorrect answers to the test, some
would exclaim, "But I've studied this!", to which I usually replied,
"You are supposed to demonstrate knowledge; how much time you spent
gaining it does not matter". So, the fact that you "worked on" some
projects in itself is of no consequence, unless you can demonstrate
accomplishments, at least of the "experience" kind.

Be prepared to start at the lowest level, be ready to learn. Be willing
to learn. Don't presume you know anything (beyond the rules of C++ syntax).

Also, what is the best way to find programming jobs ?

The best way to start would be to consult a recruiter. He/She will
explain your options and help you prepare your resume (cv). IOW, use
the tools available to you. There are several recruiting and job
hunting web sites, visit them.

V
--
Please remove capital 'A's when replying by e-mail
I do not respond to top-posted replies, please don't ask

[=?UTF-8?B?RXJpayBXaWtzdHLDtm0=?=]

On 2008-08-25 18:19, jd*****@gmail.com wrote:

If I was very proficient in c++, and I have some good references of
big open source projects I worked on, would my age matter as much for
a programming job>?
I am 17 years old..

Also, what is the best way to find programming jobs ?

I do not know about the area where you live but based on my experience I
advice you to get a University degree. While not strictly necessary if
you want a job in the software business I think it will bring a number
of advantages in the long run, such as better pay.

While you might be very good at C++ and programming there are also a
number of skills a good software developer should have, and many are
hard to pick up on your own. A few years of studying will also give you
some documented experience, which while not as good as real work
experience most employers will probably rate it higher than whatever
open source projects you've been working on (unless it was some really
high profile code you wrote).

--
Erik Wikström