January 2021 – Go Pear

Software developers work long hours and are often isolated. Even before the global pandemic started, many worked from home. It can be a lonely job, so here are some of the most popular pets to get for someone who spends their entire job on a computer.

Cats

A popular choice because these animals require minimal care and attention, depending on the cat. No need to take a break for walks, no loud barking, and they don’t take up a lot of room. Be careful with a kitten, because those will require a lot of care and keep you up at night. Also, be aware that a lot of cats love warmth, so be prepared to have an alternate source of heat other than your keyboard. Otherwise, coding can become quite difficult with a cat plopped down on your hands.

Dogs

Yes, this seems diametrically opposed to the above pet, but when have software developers ever agreed on anything? Because software design tends to be a lonely profession, a dog can be a great companion to keep you company and provide the attention and affection you might not get elsewhere. The need for walks and outdoor exercise provides a great excuse to take a break from work and get outside. It’s not like it’s built into your schedule already. Be cognizant of the breed and your living space, because getting a Bernese Mountain dog when you live in a 300 square foot apartment is bad for both owner and pet – even the crate they’d need would be huge.

Parrots

When you are in the middle of an intense coding session, you can go hours or days without talking to someone. Having a bird, especially a parrot, can provide a conversation partner to keep you grounded. Besides, doesn’t the idea of training a bird to speak your lingo sound like a fun project? You can have them make fun of your colleagues, remind you to complete upcoming projects, or even tell you when it’s time to eat dinner. It’s the next best thing to programming a robot as a pet.

Hamsters and Hedgehogs

A large majority of software developers work long hours and don’t have the time and energy to care for a larger pet. Even feeding a cat can prove a daunting task when you’ve been up for 20 hours straight. Seeing as how often work can bleed into the night, think about getting a nocturnal pet to keep you company in the quiet hours. Hamsters and Hedgehogs don’t come alive until the sun goes down, and can give you that extra motivation to keep going when you hear their wheel spinning in their cage. Sometimes just hearing the signs of life of another creature can be comforting when everyone else is asleep. Besides, it can be fun to take them out of their cage and cuddle with them when you need a break. With minimal food requirements and upkeep, they don’t take up a lot of space and don’t need a lot to be entertained. Just throw some wheels, toys, and mazes in there and they’ll be happy as can be. If you really want some entertainment, throw them in a ball and watch them zoom around the room.

Tarantulas

Software developers can have some weird traits, so it’s fitting the last one is bizarre. They’re weird to look at, no one knows what function they serve, and they avoid the light as much as possible. As for the tarantulas, they’re surprisingly docile. Just don’t let them escape, or you’ll never sleep soundly again.

Jeff Kang

Jeff Kang is web developer for about a decade. Started as a passion, he is now working as a freelance on certain websites and gaming companies.

go-pear.org

Jumping into a freelance PHP development career is a smart move. As businesses expand into the digital marketplace, the demand for quality PHP developers is rapidly growing. With a career as a freelance developer, you can make your own schedule, choose who you work with and pick the right projects for your skillset. The hardest part is getting started, but with these useful tips, you’ll be on your way to a successful freelance PHP career in no time!

Learn and Master Coding Languages.

Before trying to land a high-ticket gig, it’s important that you have a solid understanding of what your client will need. They need a developer that has put in the time to master the majority of coding languages. With a versatile background and knowledge in coding languages, you’ll be flexible and prepared to work for a variety of companies. Some of the most popular and widely used languages to master include:

Python
Javascript
HTML
Java
C++
Perl
PHP

Each of these coding languages serves a unique purpose and depending on the needs of your client, you may need to understand coding in multiple languages. Knowing the fundamentals of each language is a great starting point. Before trying to learn a new language, focus on the skills you already have and build from there.

Even if you’ve only mastered a few languages, landing a gig is very realistic. Don’t hesitate to apply for your dream job. Stepping outside of your comfort zone and landing that first gig will align you with like-minded individuals that have similar goals. Many companies will help you develop your coding skills as you gradually earn your place among their ranks.

Develop a Business Plan.

While coming up with a detailed plan of action may not be an exciting aspect of freelance life, understanding your goals and the direction you plan on heading is important. There are many things to consider when branching out on your own. Considerations include:

Business structure: You may need to meet with a CPA (certified public accountant) to decide how you would like to structure your business, as there are different tax implications depending on the structure.
Acquire a Federal EIN: Learn when and how often you will need to pay taxes.
Secure liability insurance: Protect yourself in case you have issues with a client, product, or dispute over software rights.
Purchase office equipment and software: Consider all of the associated costs like a new computer, office supplies/furniture, and anything else you might need to work from home. Many of these items can be written off in your taxes depending on how you structure your business.
Register your business: It’s important that you operate legally.

Create a Website and Social Media Presence.

To stay competitive in the freelance world, it’s necessary to develop a strong portfolio. You will be competing with skilled and knowledgeable programmers from across the world, so having a website and strong social media presence will stack the odds of success in your favor. Maintaining healthy relationships with your current clients will help you to expand your network to new clients.

Develop a Routine.

Without oversight from a boss or time-clock, it can be easy to lose track of time. As a freelancer, you have to be strict with your goals and deadlines. Having a regular work routine will ensure that you stay on target and accomplish your tasks on-time.