Understanding the Hilarious Misconceptions About Programmers
Written on
Chapter 1: The Programmer's World
Programming is an essential means of communication with our devices. It’s an exciting skill to acquire, enabling individuals to become developers and earn a living through their craft—a truly remarkable opportunity in today's digital age. With the surge of new software companies, the demand for programming skills is greater than ever.
Beyond the tech sector, programmers often explore various fields, applying their skills in diverse ways. During the pandemic, many professionals, including programmers, took part in the “great resignation,” leading to new expectations and demands from employers.
However, amidst these challenges, programmers frequently encounter some rather amusing queries from others. Recently, when I mentioned my profession to a friend of my father, his response was quite perplexing. Here are three of the most entertaining questions I’ve received upon revealing my status as a programmer:
Section 1.1: Can You Hack into My Ex’s Social Media?
Many individuals mistakenly believe that programming equates to hacking, particularly when it comes to social media. Allow me to clarify: programming is fundamentally about instructing our devices to perform tasks.
It’s surprising that some non-programmers think hacking is a trivial matter. For those reading this, always employ two-factor authentication on your social media accounts for security. Hacking is complex, and today’s cybercriminals are quite sophisticated.
Those who request hacking assistance should be made aware of the potential consequences. Respecting privacy is paramount; if an account isn’t yours, it’s best to leave it alone.
To those who think programmers can easily breach social media accounts, let me assure you: we cannot. Even if someone has the technical ability, ethical considerations prevent them from invading another's privacy. Hacking is a serious offense, and many cybersecurity professionals work diligently to protect against such breaches.
Section 1.2: Can I See Your Fat Paycheck?
Excuse me, did you just ask to see my “fat paycheck”? At present, my salary is more on the modest side!
Salaries vary widely based on several factors, including the developer’s role, the company, and their level of experience. For instance, a recent graduate in software development might earn around $50,000 annually, with expectations for salary increases as they gain experience.
Thus, income is influenced by multiple elements, such as:
- The organization you work for.
- Your job title.
- Your years of experience.
- Your specific skill set.
It’s inappropriate to label someone’s salary as “fat” or “skinny,” considering the hard work that goes into earning it. If someone inquires about my paycheck, I simply say it’s sufficient for my needs and savings.
Chapter 2: The Fear of Forgetting Programming
What if you forget programming? Would that mean you can no longer work? This question is quite nuanced and varies by individual.
Personally, I believe that if I were to forget programming, I would simply take the time to relearn it. Experienced programmers typically need not worry about this. Regular practice strengthens cognitive abilities, making it easier to learn new skills.
I liken this to mastering mathematics; once you grasp the foundational concepts, you can solve problems with a quick review of the formulas, even if some details slip your mind.
While consistent practice in programming is essential, it often becomes second nature—similar to speaking a language. If you truly enjoy programming, forgetting the basics is unlikely.
Moreover, the IT industry is not the sole domain for programmers. Many leverage their skills across various sectors to secure full-time employment.
These amusing questions reflect the misconceptions that often surround programmers. I hope this information is both entertaining and enlightening. Even if you’re not a programmer, consider refraining from asking irrelevant questions of those who are.
Discover essential questions to ask during a software developer job interview in this insightful video.
Join the first class of a free software engineering course and start your journey in programming with this introductory video.
About Me: I write extensively on Technology and Self Improvement. Click here to explore more of my articles.
If you're interested in a $5 Medium Membership, follow this link (I earn a small commission when you sign up at no extra cost). To subscribe to my newsletter, click here.