I've worked with Microsoft SQL Server for the past 20 years, but I have no formal background in computer science or software--everything I've learned has been on-the-job learning. I have a narrow area of expertise, almost entirely limited to using SQL with one specific ERP software application.
But with that very specific skillset, I can charge 4-5X what very skilled SQL developers on UpWork charge. I actually hired a couple very skilled SQL developers who work for me.
Those SQL-related interview questions are more common at large companies. You might hunt for smaller companies & startups--you might find (like I did) that there's more opportunity to identify opportunities within the company to specialize & provide way more value to the company while developing your technical skills. At large companies, the roles tend to be more constricted.
Also, if you have domain-specific experience (e.g., in the oil & gas industry, or with injection mold manufacturers, etc.), it can be incredibly valuable. My domain experience & knowledge is the main reason I can charge so much for my limited technical expertise.
Technical expertise is a lot like a commodity (like electricity or office furniture), but domain expertise is much more scarce--and therefore valuable.
But with that very specific skillset, I can charge 4-5X what very skilled SQL developers on UpWork charge. I actually hired a couple very skilled SQL developers who work for me.
Those SQL-related interview questions are more common at large companies. You might hunt for smaller companies & startups--you might find (like I did) that there's more opportunity to identify opportunities within the company to specialize & provide way more value to the company while developing your technical skills. At large companies, the roles tend to be more constricted.
Also, if you have domain-specific experience (e.g., in the oil & gas industry, or with injection mold manufacturers, etc.), it can be incredibly valuable. My domain experience & knowledge is the main reason I can charge so much for my limited technical expertise.
Technical expertise is a lot like a commodity (like electricity or office furniture), but domain expertise is much more scarce--and therefore valuable.