Jack of all trades but master of none to get a software development job?

Question

Does focusing on mastering one programming language pays off as far as landing a software development job? Or will being average in many of them help me get a job?

Most job postings list several languages they want you to know, but it varies from job to job and I don’t want to waste time being average in many languages.

Any thoughts?

Answer 1

Depends what language which depends on region. WTF?! True. In RSA, it's mainly Java + web dev frontend. Benefits knowing <whatever> framework, scripting in <whatever>, abd <whatever> tools.

If you just want a job, master Networking, then learn web dev and Java later. But an IT+Networking will get you a comfortable middle-class job here. Go for the highest as you're aiming for sysadmin, not support.

If you're passionate about coding, master C, then move into the field you want: C++/Java/Web + a couple scripting languages.

Hard truth: I've done freelance coding a fair portion of my healthy, but most of my wage came from fixing PCs, troubleshooting networks, and administering systems.

You wanna be a programmer, master C & another language (advise: C++) and develop software in your spare time. Can be your own or joining a team. Gradually expand your horizons (because you never stop learning most languages anyway, especially C++).

Answer 2

True and i agree with nonzyro, its depends on your area check every job offer nearby and see which skill are commonly needed.
And yeah, sometimes those problems pops up. Apply as a programmer but ends up fixing pc at the office. I once saw the worst job offer for an IT, relativly small salary, need to know every common languague, need to know how to fix a pc, even how to fix AC and like every electronic thing possible in the office 😂 i was like oh... my

Lack of knowledge of what IT is the problem in many company.

Answer 3

I think it‘s always good to focus on what interests you most but then look at everything that has to do with it.

If you do web development try do learn HTML, CSS, JS, PHP or some other web language, look at web server administration, security, clean code, APIs (JSON, XML...) or whatever is interesting for you.
Focus, of course, but it does not hurt to watch out for technology that has to do with your focused technology as well.

By the way:
you will never be a real „master“.
Especially in technology there is so much movement that you will never have learnt everything. There will always be something new to learn.
(Which is one of the best things in technology as well! ;-) )