How does one get a job in programming?

I want to get into programming but am unsure where to start. I already have a Bachelor's (two actually) and don't really want to fork up the money for more education (and would like to learn on my own); now that I'm OLDer, I have more discipline to study but need some help in how to go about this. More detailed questions are:





1. What programming languages should I study?


2. How do I gain programming experience so that I can build up my resume (in order to obtain a job that requires experience)?


3. Do you know of any good books I can buy to start in programming?





Thanks!

How does one get a job in programming?
First off, you WIL NOT find an employer willing to take a chance on you w/ out some type of FORMAL training.





A technicle school is good enough for some entry level position, such as CHUBB institute of tech, or similar.





The best way to be sure to land a job is to get a BS in Computer Science.





I am in the field for 12+ years now and do very well financially, thank God. But I must caution you.





I serious think the field is going to move overseas due to cheap labor. The company I work for is hiring Indians from Asia at 1/8 my salary. These workers are not as good as I am but 8 of them are better for sure.





So make your choice, but schooling is a must to land a job. Think about it, an employer takes a chance on any prospective employee, even one with a degree. The degree just adds a level of confidence, which means alot to the employer.





The most employable languages now days are the more difficult languages such as C/C++, and Java (not Javascript).





C/C++ are the most powerfull language due to pointers which allow access to any memory on any device within the computer. This is true power since you can do anything (or wreck anything :0)





You will have to dedicate yourself to being one of the best if you truly wish to excell in the field. There is some really smart, talented competition out there so be sure you are up to it before you jump into something your not ready for.





Take a look at "Teach yourself C". Its a very basic approach to learning the C language. It should give you a good idea weather or not you are cut out for it.





If you like to be challenged daily, and dont mind working long hours for no extra compensation, its probably for you. Your pay will max out, probably just over 6 figures (100-125k per year) but as a consultant I was making around $80 per hour in 1998-2000, but the market has dried up since then and consulting is not an easy gig to land.





Good luck!





DW
Reply:if youve never taken a class, your best bet is to take at least one or two programming fundamentals classes





with all the jobs going to india, china, and russia now, maybe you ought to think it over again, theres lots of people in the US outta work htat have degrees and experience, i wouldnt tell my daughter to go into computer programming right now . . .
Reply:It depends on what type of programming you are going to get into. And there are different aspects of programming and design within the different types. You will have to discover where your talents fit in.





Lots of employers will take people without formal training as long as you can prove you have the skills required.





If you are unsure, a good place to start might be to look into some inexpensive community programing courses if they are offered in your area. This might help you decide what you like.





For the experience you need, you can start building your own web site/applications or some for your friends. I started building web sites for local charities to gain experience. Once you have a nice portfolio, go freelance and look for clients or send out your applications.





Expect to start at a Junior level if you are within a larger company, until you have either proven skills to your employer, or have a few professional years under your belt.