This. So much. And by any chance if you are stuck in some kind of "corporate only" domain (ex: telecom, insurance etc) with "system/non-web competency" like C/

This. So much. And by any chance if you are stuck in some kind of "corporate only" domain (ex: telecom, insurance etc) with "system/non-web competency" like C/C++/Linux, your job market narrows down further. Its not impossible to find a job, but your job market becomes very niche. When people say just read up on tech etc, they forget the fact that, most employers are looking for professional experience in that area. Doubt if contributing to OSS, side projects can help convince the employers otherwise !