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I was working as a Java Developer before and I have now finished my contract with my previous employer. But now, as I am looking for a new job, a lot of opportunities out there seem to not include Java as much as other languages. I really like Java and I have been using it since college. But it seems like I have to learn a new language so I can have a new job. When is the right time to consider changing the language I use? |
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I would advocate learning a new language often, as you will often pick up new concepts and skillsets from it. It goes back to the old adage "When you're a hammer, everything looks like a nail". Sometimes the language you are most proficient in may actually be a poor choice for a part of the job you're trying to accomplish. For example, I write embedded C/C++ most often, but I would choose Python to write build scripts, text processing, or debug scripts. I think you will find that exploring your languages a little more will help you feel you are a Programmer, not just a Java Programmer. In truth, it is not hard to pick up a new language once you know how to program in one, and it will keep you from 'pigeon-holing' yourself into a single category and missing other opportunities. Have fun, and good luck! |
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Now.
Our recommendations aren't worth much. What job opportunities do you see in the area you want to work? Learn one of them. Now. |
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You can try C#, which is similar to/inspired by Java. Stack Overflow Careers has many C# jobs available. It's also the most used tag on Stack Overflow so it is not unpopular. Though I also recommend @SK-logic's comment. Learn multiple languages. It's never wrong to learn a new language. |
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I don't see the whole either/or scenario. There's nothing to be lost by adding additional skills to your CV anyway. That being said, the headline of your question and content are different. When is the best time - any time What should you learn - well what do you want to do? I'm inclined to lean towards the Java and C#s, less towards the scripting languages although I have Python and Perl documentation to hand for purposes of looking around when I have time free. |
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As others have pointed out, the right time is any time. C# is a good choice for you because more than half of your proficiency in Java could be thought of as counting as experience towards C#. So, there is a great likelihood that an employer who is looking for a C# programmer will agree to hire someone who has no work experience in C#, but has work experience in Java. (If the employer knows diddly squat about these matters.) |
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For me it would be decided by the following process:
As to when, that would be when you:
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If you asking when is the right time to change programming language, I would say anytime. But I don't understand why you would want to learn new language just because want to got a new job? I thought Java is still widely use and Android itself using Java too... About what language do you need to learn. I would say then find a language that you are most comfortable. Just as others have suggested C#. Also, as a Java lover, I think you would love a PHP Framework named Yii Framework too... |
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We all like to play the odds, but you only need to find one job. If java jobs are limited, so may developers with that skill in your area which is why many may not use it. Hard to say. Decide what types of companies you prefer to work for and what types of development you want to do and work on that language. If all the software companies that build webs sites in your area use PHP, you don't have much choice if that's what you want. Within reason, you should be able to find jobs in most languages if you are good enough. Otherwise, you may want consider relocating and go where the work is. |
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