Have you ever been judged based on your profession? As someone in the tech industry, I’ve encountered my fair share of misconceptions. From assumptions about my coding skills to the belief that I can miraculously fix any gadget (trust me, you need to meet my mother), these stereotypes often paint a humorous, yet mostly inaccurate, picture of what it means to work in tech. Join me as I unravel some of these misconceptions and shed light on the reality of a career in tech. Let’s set the record straight!
Techies Are All Geniuses
Myth: Every tech person is a certified genius who can hack into classified government files during their lunch break.
Reality: We’re just really good at Googling stuff. Back in college, there was a popular phrase we used: “Google is your friend,” and it truly was (and still is). Navigating the vast internet to find answers is a skill every techie masters early on. It’s not about being a genius—it’s about knowing how to use the right tools effectively.
Techies Never Sleep
Myth: Techies survive on a diet of energy drinks and code through the night.
Reality: We value our sleep and most of us have mastered taking power napping throughout the day. I have my days that I am by my laptop till midnight but they are quite few. Rest is very important to us. But to be honest, for those who do code, I know it’s also normal to wake up at 2.14AM after “suddenly” figuring out how to resolve that bug that was stressing us all week! I have done this before and I know many coders can testify to this.
Techies Speak a Secret Language
Myth: Techies converse in complex jargon that sounds like a mix of binary code and some seemingly ancient symbolic patterns,
Reality: Contrary to belief, we don’t speak in a secret language. While we do use technical acronyms and terminology, it’s not to confuse others. Personally, I cringe when techies throw jargon at non-techies without explanation. Effective communication in technology requires clarity and understanding. Unless we’re deep in code or discussing specific technical details among ourselves as colleagues, there’s no need for a secret language. Let’s keep it clear and accessible guys!
Techies Are Socially Awkward
Myth: Techies are all introverted hermits who communicate solely through memes.
Reality: We love memes. A lot. BUT, we’re far from being socially awkward hermits. In fact, we’re capable of engaging in diverse conversations beyond tech topics. You might be surprised by how interesting and enjoyable we can be to be around. Wink*Wink
Techies Can Fix Any Device
Myth: Give a techie any broken gadget, and they’ll magically resurrect it.
Reality: Sorry, I can’t fix your toaster or your BP monitor, mummy. I’m really serious about this one. My mum believes I can fix ANY and EVERY tech problem she would have. The truth is: I don’t even know how to fix my own computer beyond basic software troubleshooting. I actually have a workshop I take my Macbook to if at any time it “coughs”. Tech is really broad and it is normal to find techies who are great in one area but are completely clueless in another.
Techies Are All Gamers
Myth: Techies spend every free moment gaming.
Reality: Some of us do, but not all—some are into knitting or fishing. I must confess though, when I was in college I almost fried my motherboard playing Need For Speed. I would wake up in the middle of the night to study and after a few hours I would just find myself picking a ride and cruising through virtual hills and forests. Gaming is fun but not all techies are into it. Today, I prefer to spend my free time away from my screen – most likely preparing a delicious meal.
Techies Live in Their Parents’ Backrooms or Basements
Myth: Techies dwell in poorly lit rooms surrounded by stacks of old computer parts.
Reality: This stereotype often stems from exaggerated stories about Silicon Valley. Thanks Hollywood! In truth, most techies live in regular homes with sunlight exposure. While some of us may have lived with our parents well into our 30s (guilty as charged), our living spaces are just as beautifully decorated as anyone else’s. No superhero figurines cluttering our decor shelves!
Techies Have No Fashion Sense
Myth: Techies dress exclusively in hoodies and flip-flops.
Reality: Okay, I’ll be honest—I’m currently rocking a hoodie and flip-flops without a second thought. But hear me out: we can dress up when necessary! We just appreciate comfort, functionality and minimal decision making. Fashion sense? It’s there when needed. Alright? Good!
Techies Are All Code Ninjas
Myth: Techies effortlessly churn out flawless code in minutes.
Reality: No we don’t. Most of us actually cannot code AT ALL and for those who do, learning and debugging takes up a significant amount of our time. Just visit Stack Overflow and you’ll see what I mean.
I know these are just a handful of the many stereotypes out there around people working in tech. What have been your experiences? Let’s continue the conversation to help debunk the myths and allow others to embrace our diversity and individuality in the industry.